How to Clean Dog Crate: Easy Guide for Pet Parents

Can you use bleach to clean a dog crate? Yes, but only with extreme caution, proper dilution, and thorough rinsing to ensure no harmful residue remains. If you’re wondering how to clean a dog crate effectively, you’ve come to the right place! Keeping your dog’s crate clean is vital for their health and happiness. A clean crate prevents the spread of germs, reduces unpleasant odors, and creates a more comfortable space for your furry friend. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know for easy dog crate cleaning, from daily upkeep to a thorough deep clean dog crate session.

Why Regular Dog Crate Cleaning Matters

Your dog’s crate is their den, a safe space where they eat, sleep, and relax. Over time, it can accumulate fur, dander, dirt, saliva, and potential accidents. Neglecting dog crate cleaning can lead to several issues:

Health Problems: Bacteria and mold can thrive in a dirty environment, potentially causing skin infections, respiratory issues, or gastrointestinal upset for your dog.
Odor Build-up: Accidents and natural dog smells can permeate the crate and surrounding areas if not regularly cleaned. This makes it unpleasant for both you and your pet.
Discomfort: A soiled or smelly crate can make your dog reluctant to use it, defeating its purpose as a safe haven.
Pest Infestations: Food debris and moisture can attract insects or other unwanted pests.

Frequency of Cleaning

The frequency of dog crate cleaning depends on your dog’s habits and the type of crate.

Daily Spot Cleaning

Remove wet spots: If your dog has an accident, clean it up immediately.
Remove food and water bowls: Wash them after each meal.
Check for debris: Quickly scan for any loose fur, dirt, or chewed-up toys.

Weekly Cleaning

Wash bedding: If your dog uses a bed or blankets in the crate, wash them weekly in hot water.
Wipe down the crate: Use a pet-safe cleaner and a cloth to wipe down the crate’s surfaces.

Monthly Deep Cleaning

Thorough wash: A more extensive cleaning of the entire crate, including any removable parts.
Disinfection: Use a disinfectant to disinfect dog cage areas, especially if there have been accidents.

Gathering Your Supplies: What You Need for Dog Crate Cleaning

Before you start, gather everything you need to make the process smooth and efficient. Having all your supplies ready means you won’t have to stop mid-clean.

Essential Cleaning Supplies

Pet-Safe Cleaner: Look for cleaners specifically formulated for pets or made from natural ingredients.
Mild Dish Soap: A good alternative for general cleaning.
White Vinegar: A natural disinfectant and deodorizer.
Baking Soda: Excellent for absorbing odors.
Spray Bottles: For mixing cleaning solutions.
Gloves: To protect your hands.
Sponges and Scrub Brushes: For tackling stubborn dirt.
Microfiber Cloths or Rags: For wiping and drying.
Old Toothbrush: For reaching tight corners and crevices.
Bucket: For mixing larger batches of cleaning solution.
Vacuum Cleaner with Attachments: For removing fur and debris.
Garden Hose (if applicable): For outdoor washing.

Bedding and Accessories

Pet-safe laundry detergent: For washing bedding.
Washing machine and dryer: Or a place to air dry.

Step-by-Step Guide to Easy Dog Crate Cleaning

Let’s break down the process into manageable steps for effective dog crate cleaning.

Step 1: Prepare the Area and Your Dog

Relocate your dog: Ensure your dog is in a safe and comfortable place outside their crate while you clean. A fenced yard, another room, or a supervised play area works well.
Remove everything: Take out bedding, toys, food bowls, and any other items from the crate. This allows you to clean every surface thoroughly.

Step 2: Initial Debris Removal

Shake out bedding: Take bedding outside and shake it vigorously to remove loose fur and dirt.
Vacuum the crate: Use a vacuum cleaner with an appropriate attachment to remove loose hair, dust, and any kibble bits from the bottom and sides of the crate. This prevents them from turning into mud when you add water.

Step 3: Washing the Crate Components

This is where you’ll wash dog crate parts. The method depends on the crate material.

For Plastic or Wire Crates

Mild Soap and Water: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water in a bucket.
Scrub: Use a sponge or soft brush dipped in the soapy water to scrub all surfaces of the crate. Pay attention to corners, joints, and any areas with visible stains or dirt. For wire crates, an old toothbrush is excellent for getting into the gaps between wires.
Rinse Thoroughly: Use a clean cloth dampened with plain water to wipe away all soap residue. If you are able to, rinsing with a hose outdoors is even better. Ensure no soap is left behind, as this can irritate your dog’s skin.

For Fabric or Soft-Sided Crates

Check Manufacturer Instructions: Always refer to the care label. Some are machine washable, while others require spot cleaning.
Spot Cleaning: For minor stains, mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar or use a pet-safe upholstery cleaner. Gently blot the stained area with a cloth dipped in the solution. Avoid soaking the fabric.
Machine Washing: If the crate is machine washable, follow the instructions carefully. Use a gentle cycle and cool water with a mild, pet-safe detergent.

Step 4: Deep Cleaning and Sanitizing

This is for when you need to disinfect dog cage areas or perform a more thorough clean.

Using a Homemade Dog Crate Cleaner

A great homemade dog crate cleaner can be made with common household items.

Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and helps to remove dog odor from crate. Spray it liberally on the crate surfaces, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then wipe down and rinse.
Baking Soda Paste: For stubborn stains or odors, mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the affected areas, let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then scrub gently and wipe clean. Baking soda is excellent for absorbing smells.

Using Commercial Dog Crate Cleaners

When choosing a commercial cleaner, ensure it is specifically labelled as best dog crate cleaner or is pet-safe.

Enzyme Cleaners: These are highly effective at breaking down organic matter like urine and feces, making them ideal for eliminating odors and stains.
Pet-Specific Disinfectants: Look for products that kill bacteria and viruses but are safe for pets once dry. Always follow the dilution and contact time instructions on the product label.

Step 5: Cleaning Dog Crate Bedding

Your dog’s bedding needs just as much attention.

Pre-treatment: For heavily soiled bedding, you might want to rinse it first in cold water to remove loose debris.
Washing: Wash bedding in a washing machine using hot water and a mild, fragrance-free, pet-safe detergent. Add half a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle to help remove dog odor from crate and boost cleaning power.
Drying: Tumble dry on a low heat setting or air dry completely. Ensure the bedding is thoroughly dry before returning it to the crate to prevent mold and mildew.

Step 6: Washing Food and Water Bowls

Daily Rinse: Rinse bowls with hot water after each meal.
Weekly Scrub: Use a dedicated sponge and hot, soapy water to scrub them thoroughly once a week. This prevents the build-up of bacteria and slime.
Dishwasher Safe: If your dog’s bowls are dishwasher safe, run them through a hot cycle periodically.

Step 7: Reassembling and Drying

Dry All Parts: Ensure all parts of the crate are completely dry before putting them back together or returning bedding. Moisture can lead to mold growth. You can air dry them in the sun, which also has natural disinfecting properties, or use clean towels.
Reassemble: Put the clean, dry crate back together.

Step 8: Final Touches and Odor Control

Baking Soda Method: Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda on the bottom of the dry crate before putting the bedding back in. It acts as a natural deodorizer.
Air Out: Leave the crate door open for a while to allow it to air out completely.

Cleaning Different Types of Dog Crates

The material of your dog’s crate will influence the cleaning method.

Wire Crates

Wire crates are generally the easiest to clean.

Disassembly: If possible, detach the base tray.
Washing: You can usually scrub these down with soap and water, or even hose them off outside.
Corners: Use a toothbrush to clean where the wires meet the frame.

Plastic Crates

Plastic crates are also quite straightforward to clean.

Wipe Down: Use a sponge or cloth with a pet-safe cleaner.
Stains: For stubborn stains, a baking soda paste can be effective.
Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation when cleaning plastic crates, as some cleaners can have strong odors.

Soft-Sided or Fabric Crates

These require more delicate handling.

Check Tags: Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.
Spot Cleaning: Most require spot cleaning for spills and accidents. Use a mild soap solution or a specialized fabric cleaner. Blot gently.
Deep Cleaning: Some might be machine washable on a gentle cycle. Avoid harsh detergents or high heat drying, which can damage the fabric.
Drying: Always air dry these crates completely to prevent mildew.

Wooden Crates

Wooden crates offer a natural aesthetic but require specific care.

Surface Cleaning: Wipe down with a damp cloth and a mild cleaning solution. Avoid soaking the wood.
Stains: For urine stains, a vinegar and water solution can help neutralize odors.
Drying: Ensure the wood dries completely. You might need to use a fan or place it in a well-ventilated area.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use strong chemicals or solvents, as they can damage the wood and be harmful to your dog.

How to Sanitize Dog Kennel and Remove Odors

Achieving a truly sanitized environment and tackling lingering smells requires a bit more effort.

The Power of Vinegar

White vinegar is a fantastic natural sanitizer and deodorizer. Its acetic acid helps break down alkaline odors like urine.

Application: Mix one part white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle.
How to Use: Spray the entire interior of the crate, focusing on any areas where accidents have occurred. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before wiping down with a clean, damp cloth.
Rinsing: Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any vinegar smell, which can be strong for some dogs.

Baking Soda: The Ultimate Deodorizer

Baking soda is a champion at absorbing odors.

Sprinkling: After cleaning and drying the crate, sprinkle a light layer of baking soda on the bottom.
Bedding: You can also sprinkle a little baking soda onto bedding before washing it.
Paste: A paste of baking soda and water can be used to scrub away tough stains and their associated odors.

Enzymatic Cleaners: The Best Approach for Accidents

For urine, vomit, or feces, enzymatic cleaners are your best friend. These cleaners contain active enzymes that literally break down and digest the odor-causing organic molecules.

How They Work: Unlike regular cleaners that might mask odors, enzymes eliminate them at their source.
Application: Follow the product instructions precisely. Typically, you’ll saturate the affected area, allow it to air dry completely, and the enzymes will do their work. This might take several hours.
Repeat if Necessary: For persistent odors, multiple applications may be needed.

Sun-Drying: Nature’s Sanitizer

Don’t underestimate the power of sunlight! Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun are natural disinfectants and help to eliminate odors.

Best Practice: Whenever possible, take the crate (especially wire and plastic ones) outside on a sunny day.
Air It Out: Leave it in direct sunlight for several hours. This is a great way to naturally sanitize and freshen the crate.

Common Cleaning Challenges and Solutions

Even with regular cleaning, you might encounter specific issues.

Stubborn Stains

Baking Soda Paste: For dried-on messes, a paste of baking soda and water left to sit for 30 minutes can work wonders. Scrub gently with a brush.
Hydrogen Peroxide (Diluted): For tougher stains on plastic or wire, a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution diluted with water can be effective. Test on an inconspicuous area first, as it can sometimes lighten plastics. Rinse very thoroughly.

Lingering Odors

Enzymatic Cleaners: As mentioned, these are key for truly eliminating odors.
Vinegar and Baking Soda: Use both in conjunction if needed. Clean with vinegar, rinse, dry, then sprinkle baking soda in the dry crate.
Ventilation: Ensure the crate is completely dry and aired out well.

Rust on Wire Crates

Steel Wool: For light rust spots, gently scrub with fine steel wool.
Vinegar Soak: For more persistent rust, you can try soaking a cloth in vinegar and placing it over the rusty area for a few hours. Then scrub and rinse.
Protective Coating: After rust removal, you might consider a pet-safe sealant if the rust was significant, though this is often difficult to apply effectively to a whole crate. Regular cleaning and drying can prevent rust.

Maintaining a Clean Crate Between Deep Cleans

Preventative measures and consistent quick clean-ups make deep cleaning much less daunting.

Daily Habits

Immediate Cleanup: Deal with accidents as soon as they happen.
Bowl Hygiene: Wash food and water bowls daily.
Check Toys: Remove any soiled toys or bedding immediately.

Weekly Routine

Bedding Wash: Make it a habit to wash bedding weekly.
Surface Wipe: Give the crate a quick wipe-down with a pet-safe cleaner.

Prevention Tips

Proper Potty Training: A well-trained dog is less likely to have accidents.
Appropriate Crate Size: Ensure the crate is the right size. Too large can encourage accidents in a corner, while too small is uncomfortable.
Crate Anxiety: If your dog experiences separation anxiety, they may soil their crate more often. Address the anxiety with training and professional help if needed.

Table: Cleaning Schedule for Your Dog Crate

Task	Frequency	Tools/Materials	Notes
Remove food/water bowls	Daily	Hot water, dish soap, dedicated sponge	Wash thoroughly after each meal.
Spot clean accidents	As needed	Pet-safe cleaner, paper towels or rags	Address immediately to prevent stains and odors.
Shake out bedding	Daily/Weekly	Hands, outside	Remove loose fur and debris.
Wash bedding	Weekly	Pet-safe detergent, baking soda (optional)	Use hot water if possible. Ensure it’s completely dry before returning to crate.
Vacuum crate interior	Weekly	Vacuum cleaner with crevice tool	Get into corners and remove loose fur.
Wipe down crate	Weekly	Pet-safe cleaner or vinegar/water solution, cloth	Focus on interior surfaces.
Deep clean crate	Monthly	Pet-safe cleaner, vinegar, baking soda, scrub brush, old toothbrush	Disassemble if possible. Consider outdoor hose-down for hard crates.
Sanitize crate	Monthly	Enzymatic cleaner (for accidents), diluted bleach (with extreme caution)	Focus on areas prone to soiling. Always rinse thoroughly if using bleach.
Wash toys	Weekly/As needed	Pet-safe detergent, hot water	Wash toys that go in the crate.
Air out crate	Regularly	Sunny day, well-ventilated area	Sunlight has natural disinfecting properties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the best dog crate cleaner?

The best dog crate cleaner is one that is pet-safe, effective at removing dirt and odors, and suitable for your crate material. Enzymatic cleaners are excellent for accidents, while a diluted white vinegar and water solution is a great natural all-purpose cleaner and deodorizer.

Q2: Can I use bleach to clean a dog crate?

While bleach is a powerful disinfectant, it should be used with extreme caution around pets. If you choose to use it, ensure it is highly diluted (e.g., 1:10 ratio of bleach to water), the area is well-ventilated, and you rinse the crate extremely thoroughly with plain water afterward. Ensure the crate is completely dry and aired out before your dog uses it, as residual fumes can be harmful. Many pet owners prefer to avoid bleach altogether due to these risks.

Q3: How do I remove dog odor from crate?

To remove dog odor from crate, start with a thorough cleaning. Enzymatic cleaners are the most effective for eliminating the source of urine or feces odors. White vinegar and baking soda are also excellent natural deodorizers. Ensure the crate is completely dry after cleaning, and consider placing a small open box of baking soda inside the crate for a few days (away from your dog’s reach if they are prone to chewing it) to absorb lingering smells.

Q4: How often should I deep clean my dog’s crate?

A deep clean dog crate should ideally happen at least once a month. If your dog has frequent accidents, is elderly, or has a medical condition, you may need to deep clean more often. Regular weekly wipe-downs and daily spot cleaning will make monthly deep cleans much easier.

Q5: What’s a good homemade dog crate cleaner?

A simple and effective homemade dog crate cleaner is a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. You can also make a paste of baking soda and water for scrubbing stubborn stains and odors.

Q6: How do I clean dog crate bedding?

To clean dog crate bedding, most items can be machine washed on a warm or hot cycle with a mild, pet-safe detergent. Adding half a cup of baking soda to the wash can help with odor removal. Always ensure the bedding is completely dry before returning it to the crate to prevent mold and mildew.

By following these steps, you can ensure your dog’s crate remains a clean, safe, and comfortable sanctuary for your beloved pet, contributing to their overall health and well-being. Remember, a little regular effort goes a long way in maintaining a happy home for you and your furry companion.