When the humidity hits, even the cleanest dog crate can start to carry that unmistakable musty smell. I’ve seen it happen in just a day or two, especially in the thick of summer, when moisture clings to every surface and airflow seems nonexistent. That fresh-smelling crate your pup loves? It can quickly turn into a damp, odor-trapping zone.
The good news? You don’t need to fight this battle alone—or let humidity win. With a few simple habits and the right gear, you can keep your dog’s crate smelling fresh all season long. Here’s how I approach it, especially during those muggy months.
Why Humid Months Spell Trouble for Crates
Humidity isn’t just uncomfortable—it creates the perfect storm for odor issues inside crates. Warm, moist air allows bacteria, mildew, and mold to flourish in the very places we want to keep clean: crate liners, pads, tray corners, and even the ventilation holes in aluminum crates.
I know how quickly a crate can go from “just cleaned” to “what’s that smell?” when the air is thick. Even if your dog is clean and dry, moisture from their breath, paws, or just the surrounding air can collect on the crate’s surfaces. It seeps into fabrics, lingers in crevices, and builds up without much notice—until it’s too late.
That’s why staying ahead of it is key. Daily upkeep and strategic cleaning will go a long way toward keeping things fresh.
Daily Maintenance Tips
Here are a few quick actions I take every day, especially when humidity is high:
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Wipe down all interior surfaces with a dry microfiber cloth after each use to remove moisture and prevent buildup.
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Open the crate and let it air out in a shaded, well-ventilated spot—never in direct sunlight for long periods, as this can damage materials.
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Swap out crate liners or pads every few days to prevent trapped moisture and reduce odor sources.
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Use a gentle, pet-safe cleaner for daily spritzes. We recommend a formula that neutralizes odors instead of just covering them up.
These five-minute habits make a big difference. When done consistently, they cut down on that “damp dog crate” smell before it even starts.
Deep Cleaning Tricks
Even with daily care, crates need a deeper clean at least once a week during humid months. Here’s the routine I swear by:
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Disassemble the crate: Remove the tray, liner, and any bedding to reach every surface.
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Soak trays and liners: I fill a tub or large basin with warm water and a vinegar-water mix (1:1 ratio). Let everything soak for at least 15 minutes.
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Scrub vents and corners: Use a soft-bristled brush to get into vents and tight seams—those hidden spots are often where smells start.
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Rinse thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse all parts with clean water to remove residue.
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Dry completely: This is critical. Let all parts air dry fully in a shaded, breezy spot before putting the crate back together. Any leftover moisture invites mildew right back in.
Pro tip: If you’re short on time, a damp cloth with a few spritzes of pet-safe cleaner on high-contact areas can serve as a midweek refresh.
Preventative Accessories to Beat Odors
Humidity doesn’t stand a chance when you combine smart habits with the right accessories. At Impact, we’ve designed a few add-ons specifically to help fight moisture and odor, especially during summer:
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Orthopedic Pad Liner – This waterproof liner acts as a protective barrier between your crate pad and your dog. It’s machine washable and easy to swap out.
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Pet Stain & Odor Remover Spray – Our enzymatic spray tackles smells at the source—no masking fragrances, just real odor control.
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Vinyl Pad – If you want a no-fuss, easy-wipe option, our vinyl pad resists moisture and is a breeze to clean with a single swipe.
These small upgrades make a big difference when the weather turns sticky. They help you stay ahead of odors rather than scrambling to fix them later.
Keeping your crate fresh during the humid months is all about consistency and the right tools. Daily wipe-downs, weekly deep cleans, and breathable, moisture-resistant accessories all play a role in keeping things fresh for you and your pup.
If you’re ready to keep your dog’s crate smelling its best, check out our Pad Liners and Odor-Eliminating Spray—they’re crate-care essentials that make humid months a breeze.
