How to Clean a Dog Crate
To clean a dog crate, remove the bedding and tray, wash away dirt with a suitable cleaner, rinse if needed, and let every surface dry fully before your dog goes back in. Clean up accidents promptly and follow cleaner labels.
On this page (9 sections)
- How do you clean a dog crate step by step?
- What should you use to clean a dog crate?
- How do you clean a wire dog crate?
- How do you clean a plastic dog crate?
- How do you wash crate bedding?
- How often should you clean a dog crate?
- How can you keep a dog crate from smelling?
- What should you avoid when cleaning a dog crate?
- What is the easiest dog crate cleaning routine?
To clean a dog crate, remove the bedding and tray, wash away dirt with a suitable cleaner, rinse if needed, and let every surface dry fully before your dog goes back in. Clean accidents promptly and follow the cleaner's label.
A regular clean removes hair, crumbs, drool, and damp spots before they build up. The steps depend on whether your crate has a removable tray, wire panels, or a solid plastic shell.
How do you clean a dog crate step by step?
Take out the bedding and removable parts first, then clean each surface with a product approved for its material. Rinse or wipe away cleaner as directed and let the crate dry completely.
- Move your dog to a safe place away from the cleaning area.
- Remove the pad, toys, bowls, and any detachable tray.
- Shake out or vacuum loose hair and crumbs.
- Wash the tray and wipe the crate surfaces.
- Address any stains or odors with a cleaner suited to the surface.
- Rinse or wipe as directed, then air-dry before putting everything back.
Use a soft cloth or sponge for routine cleaning. Avoid abrasive tools that could scratch plastic or damage a crate's finish.
If you're setting up a crate for the first time, see how to set up a dog crate. That guide covers arranging it before your dog starts using it.
What should you use to clean a dog crate?
Choose a cleaner labeled for the crate's surface, and follow its directions. Mild soap and water may work for ordinary dirt, while an enzyme cleaner may help with an organic accident on a surface its directions cover.
Keep your dog away while cleaning. Don't mix cleaners, and don't leave residue where your dog can lick or chew it.
Rocco & Roxie enzyme stain and odor eliminator is for use on kennels and pet living and sleeping areas. The product is chlorine free and color safe, and the brand states it has a Carpet and Rug Institute Seal of Approval for carpets.
Check the cleaner's directions before use, especially if your crate has a fabric cover or a material not named in the directions. Nature's Miracle dog stain and odor remover is another enzymatic option for dog stains and odors.
Nature's Miracle's directions say to use the formula at full strength, wait 10 minutes, then blot with a white cloth. They exclude untreated hardwood, leather, suede, silk, and wool specialty fabrics, so check the label before using it around crate accessories.
For choosing among crate styles and materials, see how to choose a dog crate.
How do you clean a wire dog crate?
Remove the tray and wipe the wire panels from top to bottom. Pay attention to corners, door latches, and the lower rails where hair and drool can collect.
Wash the tray separately with a cleaner suited to its material. Rinse if the cleaner's directions require it, then dry it before sliding it back into place.
Don't spray electrical parts or soak a crate with attached fabric or hardware. For more details on doors, trays, and sizing, read how to choose a wire dog crate.
How do you handle a urine accident in a wire crate?
Blot up fresh liquid first, then treat the affected tray or wire area according to the cleaner's directions. Let the cleaner sit for its directed time, then wipe or rinse as instructed.
Check beneath the tray and around the crate feet, since liquid can travel beyond the visible spot. Keep your dog away until the cleaned areas are dry.
How do you clean a plastic dog crate?
Clean the shell, door, and ventilation openings with a soft cloth and a cleaner suitable for the surface. Remove loose dirt from corners and seams without pushing debris into the vents.
A removable plastic floor may be washed separately if the crate design allows it. Dry the shell and door fully, including the edges and latch area, before reassembly.
A dog crate is useful only when its size and shape suit your dog and your space. Use how to measure a dog for a crate to check fit before choosing a replacement.
How do you wash crate bedding?
Follow the care label on the pad or blanket. Remove loose hair first, and don't put bedding back until it's clean and fully dry.
The washable crate pad, 42-inch has a non-slip backing and can be machine-washed on a moderate setting. Its care directions allow low dryer heat or drying in the sun.
Measure the crate floor before choosing a pad, since its stated length alone doesn't confirm the fit. If you're deciding what belongs inside the crate, see what to put in a dog crate.
How often should you clean a dog crate?
Clean as soon as there's an accident, and remove damp bedding or food scraps promptly. For routine care, wash surfaces when they look or smell dirty and don't wait for a spill to dry.
A quick check after your dog leaves the crate can catch wet spots, shed hair, and crumbs. Clean bowls separately, and keep water away from bedding if it tends to stay damp.
The right cleaning schedule depends on how often your dog uses the crate and whether messes happen. A crate used every day may need more frequent tray and bedding care than one used only for travel.
How can you keep a dog crate from smelling?
Remove the source of the odor, clean the affected surface, and dry the crate fully. A fragrance can cover a smell without removing the mess that caused it.
Wash fabric items according to their care labels, and inspect beneath removable trays. If a smell remains, repeat cleaning only as the cleaner's directions permit and check nearby bedding or flooring.
Place the crate where air can circulate, but keep it away from direct heat and damp spots. Our guide to where to put a dog crate in your home covers location choices.
What should you avoid when cleaning a dog crate?
Don't mix cleaners, use a product against its directions, or return your dog before surfaces are dry. Strong scents and wet residue can prompt licking.
Avoid abrasive pads on plastic and wire finishes. A cleaner approved for carpet may not be approved for every crate surface.
Keep cleaning products and dirty cloths out of reach. Store cleaners according to their labels after the job is done.
What is the easiest dog crate cleaning routine?
Remove the pad and tray, clear loose debris, wipe the crate, and let it dry before reassembly. Treat accidents promptly with a cleaner whose directions cover the affected material.
Choose Rocco & Roxie for an enzyme cleaner labeled for kennels and pet sleeping areas, or Nature's Miracle for dog stains when its directions fit the surface. Choose the washable 42-inch pad if its size and care directions suit your crate.
If you need to replace or choose a crate, start with the complete dog crate guide and check fit before you buy.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you clean a dog crate?
Remove food scraps, hair, and damp bedding as needed, and clean the crate when it looks or smells dirty. Wash the tray and wipe high-touch areas regularly.
Clean accidents right away, then let the crate dry before your dog returns.
What cleaner is safe for a dog crate?
Use a cleaner labeled for the crate's material and follow its directions for dilution, contact time, rinsing, and drying. Keep your dog away while you clean.
For an accident, an enzyme cleaner may help with organic stains and odors, but check its surface directions first.
Can you use bleach to clean a dog crate?
Don't use bleach unless the crate maker specifically permits it and you can follow its dilution and rinsing directions. Never mix bleach with other cleaners.
A pet-safe cleaner suited to the crate material is a simpler choice for routine cleaning.
How do you get urine smell out of a dog crate?
Remove bedding and clean the affected tray or surface with a cleaner labeled for that material. An enzyme cleaner may help with organic messes; follow its label, including any wait time, then allow the area to dry fully before replacing bedding.
