When you invest in an aluminum dog crate, you’re doing more than choosing durability—you’re making a sustainable decision for your dog and the planet. At Impact Dog Crates, we design our crates to last for years, but we also know that a little upkeep goes a long way. With the right care, your crate will stay in top condition through road trips, training sessions, and daily use.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler with a working dog or just getting started with crate training at home, this guide will walk you through our best tips for long-term crate care. Let’s keep your aluminum crate clean, functional, and eco-friendly for the long haul.
Why Proper Care Matters
Caring for your aluminum dog crate isn’t just about keeping it clean—it’s about preserving its integrity over time. Routine maintenance helps prevent wear and tear, extends your crate’s lifespan, and minimizes the need for replacements. That’s good news for your budget and even better for the environment.
At Impact, sustainability isn’t an afterthought—it’s built into our design. Our crates are crafted from American aluminum, designed to be both lightweight and incredibly strong. But even the toughest gear needs attention. By following a consistent care routine, you’re supporting a longer-lasting product and reducing unnecessary waste.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Keeping your aluminum crate clean doesn’t require harsh chemicals or fancy tools. Simple solutions are often the most effective—and the most gentle on your crate and your dog.
Here’s what we recommend for basic cleaning and upkeep:
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Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and warm water to clean surfaces. Avoid bleach, ammonia, or acidic cleaners that can degrade finishes over time.
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After washing, rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean towel to prevent water spots or moisture buildup that can lead to corrosion.
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Remove accessories like pad liners or crate fans before cleaning. These should be cleaned separately according to their care instructions.
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For added airflow during the drying process or hot weather, check out our Impact Crate Fan — a great accessory that also helps minimize odor buildup between cleanings.
A quick wipe-down every couple of weeks—or more frequently after muddy adventures or kennel stays—can make a major difference in how your crate performs over time.
Preventative Upkeep
Routine cleaning is important, but a few extra steps can help you catch small issues before they become bigger problems. Think of it like a seasonal tune-up for your dog’s home base.
Here are our go-to tips for preventative care:
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Inspect welds, rivets, and door latches once a month. Look for any signs of stress or movement, especially if your crate travels frequently.
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Tighten any loose screws, bolts, or brackets. Vibration from car rides or shipping can gradually loosen hardware, so give everything a quick once-over.
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Apply food-grade silicone spray to hinges and latches every few months. This helps maintain smooth operation without using petroleum-based lubricants that can attract dust or grime.
These small steps take just minutes but can extend the life and safety of your crate for years.
Sustainable Practices
If you’re thinking long-term, sustainability plays a big role in your crate care decisions. One of the simplest ways to reduce your environmental footprint is by choosing reusable accessories and responsibly handling older components.
Here are some sustainable swaps and practices we suggest:
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Use washable crate liners instead of disposable bedding. Our Pad Liner is machine-washable, easy to remove, and designed to fit seamlessly in our crate models.
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Choose high-quality pads or orthopedic mats that last. These not only provide better comfort for your dog but also reduce how often you need to replace worn-out materials.
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Donate or recycle old crate parts. If you’ve upgraded a latch or outgrown a size, consider donating usable parts to a local shelter or recycling aluminum components when possible.
By making smart, eco-conscious choices, you’re reinforcing the long-term value of your crate—and setting a great example for responsible pet ownership.
Conclusion
Taking care of your aluminum crate is a win-win: your dog gets a safer, more comfortable space, and you reduce environmental impact by avoiding unnecessary replacements. At Impact, we believe great gear should be built to last, but how long it lasts also depends on how you care for it.
If you’re looking to upgrade your crate setup with long-lasting accessories like washable liners or airflow-enhancing crate fans, we’ve got you covered. Explore our care accessories or browse our blog for more tips on crate maintenance and sustainability.
Together, we can keep your crate—and your commitment to quality—going strong for years to come.
