You pull warm clothes from the dryer, turn around for two seconds, and there's a cat on top. Smug. Shedding. Unbothered.

Quick answer: cats love clean laundry because it's warm, soft and smells like you. Use a lidded basket, fold quickly and give your cat a decoy blanket of their own.

Why cats love it

• It's warm straight out of the dryer.
• It's soft.
• It smells like you, even after washing.^†
• It's new in their territory, so they claim it.

You won't win this one. But you can negotiate.

Protect the clean stuff

1. Use a lidded basket.
2. Fold right away (read it).
3. Close bedroom and closet doors.

The decoy trick

Give your cat a warm blanket of their own. Pop it in the dryer for a few minutes and put it near the laundry spot. Many cats will take the bait.

Safety tip

Always check the washer and dryer before you start them. Cats love warm, dark spaces. Close the doors when the machines aren't in use.

FAQ

Why does my cat lie on clean laundry? It's warm, soft and smells like you.

How do I stop my cat sitting on clothes? Lidded baskets, quick folding and a decoy blanket.

Is it safe for cats to be near the dryer? Always check inside before starting it and keep the door closed.

What detergent is best for cat homes? Fragrance-free, with no essential oils.