Plastic is one of the easiest surfaces to clean, but a dog crate can be a bit of a challenge. When it requires cleaning, it might be embedded with dirt or stained with excrement. In any case, it can still be cleaned in a few simple steps. Even the exterior can look like new. Use these easy ways to clean a plastic dog crate, and find out how to freshen and brighten it inside and out.
I crate trained my dogs, and their interior dens were made of plastic. They did not defecate or urinate in their enclosures, but they still became dirty inside and out. The exterior was not smooth, and the nooks and crannies trapped dust and dirt. Since the dog crate was in my home, I wanted it to look and smell clean. The interior also ended up looking dirty in time, and I had to find easy ways to clean it.
Begin by Taking the Dog Crate Apart
When looking for easy ways to clean a plastic dog crate, begin by taking it apart. Most crates are connected by hinged closures or screws and plastic nuts. Once the top is off, it will be very easy to clean no matter how dirty it is. It will go back together just as easily as it came apart.
Remove or Hose Out Waste Material
Put on a pair of gloves to protect your hands before getting started. If the dog crate contains solid or liquid waste, take it outdoors and rinse it out with a hose. Otherwise, with a waterproof trash bag in hand, remove all traces of solid or liquid waste with paper towels. Use as many as necessary to get the job done.
Clean the Inside with Clorox Wipes or a Bleach and Water Solution
A solution of one part bleach and nine parts water will sufficiently clean and sanitize the inside of a dog crate. Be sure to remove all animals from the home or area, and provide plenty of ventilation. Use a clean sponge or rag to apply the solution. Allow it to remain on the plastic for at least ten minutes before scrubbing it away and rinsing it with clear water. Do not mix the bleach solution with any other cleaning products. It should work to completely remove stubborn dirt. It will also kill odor causing germs in the process.
Clean the Exterior of the Dog Crate with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser
The exterior of my dog crate was the most difficult to clean. Because the surface was rough, dirt and dust seemed to meld with the plastic. I used a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser to wipe it away, and it really did work like magic. The dog crate that was once dirty and dingy looked like it did when it was new, and it smelled fresh and clean.
Sources: http://www.siouxnationpetclinic.com/kennels/giardia-control/
Personal Pet Care and Accessory Cleaning Experience
