Cage

How do you clean a hamster cage that's been in storage for 18 years?

I am about to use a hamster cage that has been in storage in the attic and the garage for 18 years. It has dust and dirt and a few dead bugs in it. I am wondering how I should clean it so it's ready for my new pet.

Public Comments

1. You buy a new one.
2. in a big bon fire would be best to kill the germs
3. by using bleach and pinesol
4. A very strong power-washer and a bunch-o-bleach.. Let it soak in water first, than scrub away the grime.
5. Clean out the loose stuff and then fill it with hot water mixed with a little bleach. Let that sit and soak for a while to loosen up anything else that's in there. Then rinse it well and it should be fine.
6. the best way to clean something like that would be to use hot water and baking soda....sometimes soap can harm little animals if you dont get ALL of it out. hope it all works out!!
7. try the car wash thing.
8. I put my old hamster cage into the dishwasher. If you can get yours to fit in there and not get damaged, that's the best way to go. Because of the condition yours is in, I would hose it out first to remove the dead bugs and most of the dirt. If all else fails, buy a new one. Good luck!
9. A new hamster cage would really be the best, though it would cost you a bit. The old one may have bacteria or be rickety and unsafe. If you think it's okay and are set on using this one, start off by removing the dead bugs and wiping off the dust. Next you should soak the cage in boiling water. Then scrub it with a sponge with hot water and dish soap on it, then rinse with warm water. WHAT EVER YOU DO DO NOT USE BLEACH OR ANY CLEANING PRODUCT NOT MEANT FOR PETS!!! These can stay on the cage even if you can't see it and can harm your hamster. I think your cage will be nicely cleaned up if you follow my instructions. Good Luck!
10. cages have changed a lot since then. i'm not sure how safe it would be. could be rusty which is not good. it's probably best to buy a new one, but if u must--use hot water, vinegar, baking soda, and a good scrubber. no bleach. if u can fit in the dishwasher it's definitely too small & he'll be miserable.
11. Use bleach and soap clean a couple of time and dry real good and see if that doesn't help..
12. warm water and a capful of bleach make sure you are wearing clothes that you don't mind getting bleach on and a good pair of rubber gloves. You can let the pieces soak for 30min to an 1hr Use a scrubbie for any tough spots. Wipe down any metal parts - don't soak them as they can rust. When you are done with the cleaning process dry with an old towel.