Quick answer

To dilute a 32:1 shampoo concentrate, mix 1 part concentrate with 32 parts water; for 50:1, mix 1 part concentrate with 50 parts water. Always add concentrate to water, stir gently without foaming, and label the bottle with the ratio and date. Use the chart below for common volumes.

Why the ratio matters for coat and skin

A 32:1 dilution is richer and leaves more conditioning residue, which suits dry, damaged, or double coats that need extra moisture. A 50:1 dilution is lighter and rinses faster, making it a better fit for oily coats, frequent bathing, or pets with sensitive skin. Using the wrong strength can either leave coat feeling greasy or strip natural oils, so match the ratio to the coat type and how often the pet is bathed.

Choosing your mixing container and water

Use a clean, clearly labeled bottle or jug reserved only for grooming. Warm water helps concentrate dissolve faster, but avoid hot water because it can degrade some ingredients. If your tap water is very hard, filtered water can reduce mineral buildup on the coat over time.

Quick dilution chart for common bottle sizes

The chart below gives concentrate and water amounts for the two most common ratios. Measure concentrate first, then add water to the mark. These volumes are based on the ratio only; always check the product label for any specific mixing instructions.

  • 32:1 — 1 oz concentrate + 32 oz water (makes 33 oz total)
  • 32:1 — 4 oz concentrate + 128 oz water (1 gallon total)
  • 50:1 — 1 oz concentrate + 50 oz water (makes 51 oz total)
  • 50:1 — 2.5 oz concentrate + 125 oz water (just over 1 gallon total)

Storing and using diluted shampoo safely

Diluted shampoo has a shorter shelf life than concentrate because water introduces bacteria. Mix only what you will use within a week or two, and store it in a cool, dark place. If the mixture changes color, smells off, or shows separation that won't stir back in, discard it and mix a fresh batch.

Step-by-step dilution process

  1. Check the product label for the recommended ratio: Confirm whether your concentrate is meant for 32:1, 50:1, or another ratio. Some products, like Simply Fresh Super Conditioner, are specifically formulated for 32:1. Mistake to avoid: assuming all concentrates use the same ratio. Using the wrong one can make the product too weak or too harsh.
  2. Measure the concentrate first: Use a measuring cup or syringe to pour the exact amount of concentrate into your mixing container. For 32:1, use 1 oz concentrate for every 32 oz water. For 50:1, use 1 oz for every 50 oz water. Checkpoint: double-check your measurement before adding water. A little extra concentrate can leave residue; too little may not clean effectively.
  3. Add water to the concentrate: Pour warm (not hot) water into the container up to your target volume. Adding water to concentrate helps it mix more evenly and reduces foaming. Mistake to avoid: adding concentrate to a full container of water, which can cause clumps and uneven dilution.
  4. Stir gently until fully mixed: Stir with a clean spoon or swirl the container. Avoid shaking vigorously, which creates foam and makes it hard to see if the concentrate is fully dissolved. Checkpoint: the mixture should be uniform with no visible streaks or clumps.
  5. Label the container with ratio and date: Write the ratio (e.g., 32:1) and the date you mixed it on the bottle. This helps you track freshness and avoid using an old batch. Mistake to avoid: using unlabeled bottles, which can lead to mixing up ratios or using expired diluted shampoo.
  6. Store properly and use within two weeks: Keep diluted shampoo in a cool, dark place. Because water can introduce bacteria, mix only what you need for a week or two. Checkpoint: if the mixture smells off or separates, discard it and mix a fresh batch.

Products that work well with dilution

  • Simply Fresh Super Conditioner - 32:1: Simply Fresh Super Conditioner - 32:1 is a versatile conditioner that moisturizes and de-sheds, formulated for canine, feline, and equine animals. This conditioner is designed to be diluted at 32:1, making it a natural fit for the 32:1 method above. Its de-shedding and moisturizing properties suit dry or double coats that need extra conditioning without weighing down the hair.
  • Simply Fresh Cologne - RTU 16oz: Simply Fresh Cologne - RTU 16oz is an alcohol-free cologne spray that eliminates static and smells great, formulated for canines, felines, and equine animals. A ready-to-use cologne like this is a good finishing step after a diluted shampoo bath. Because it is alcohol-free, it won't dry out the coat or skin, and it helps control static without needing to be diluted.