How to Clean a Hamster Cage With Urine That Is Hardened

Despite regular cleaning, hardened urine deposits can accumulate in your hamster's cage. Since hamsters are adapted to an arid environment, their urine is highly concentrated and prone to hardening. Hamsters like to use the same bathroom spot each time, so parts of the cage may be worse than others. You may be tempted to use a harsh cleanser to tackle this smelly problem, but hamsters are sensitive to chemicals to the point where they can sicken or die with even minimal exposure. Fortunately there is a natural, inexpensive solution. White vinegar safely dissolves urine buildup without endangering your pet.

Things You'll Need

  • Shoebox with air holes or other safe place to keep your hamster
  • Hamster treats and toys
  • Trash bag or other waste receptacle
  • Hot water
  • White vinegar
  • Heavy-duty scrubber or brush
  • Old toothbrush
  • Fresh bedding
  • Clean rags or towels
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Instructions

  1. Instructions

    • 1
      This hamster has a ball while the cage is cleaned.

      Stash your hamster in a safe, comfy place with a few treats and toys.

    • 2

      Remove food dishes, water bottle, toys and other accessories from the cage.

    • 3

      Remove and dispose of old bedding.

    • 4

      Take the cage apart as necessary for cleaning.

    • 5

      Pour vinegar onto the hardened urine deposits.

    • 6

      Soak for 10 to 15 minutes. An overnight soak might seem more effective but, unless you have a second cage for your hamster, is not practical.

    • 7

      Use the soaking time to wash all the cage accessories with hot water.

    • 8

      Scrub the urine deposits with the heavy-duty scrubber dipped in hot water.

    • 9

      Dip the toothbrush in vinegar to scrub the corners, between the bars of the cage and any other hard-to-reach areas with urine deposits.

    • 10

      Clean the whole cage with hot water.

    • 11

      Rinse the cage thoroughly.

    • 12

      Dry with clean rags or towel.

    • 13

      Put the cage back together.

    • 14

      Spread clean bedding in the cage.

    • 15

      Fill the water and food dishes and replace in the cage along with other accessories and toys.

    • 16

      Return your hamster to the clean cage.

    • 17

      Repeat the vinegar soak at the next cleaning as needed. Stubborn deposits may require several treatments to completely eliminate the problem.