How to Clean a Dog House
Step 1. Start with the Accessories and Materials
Remove water bowls, food, toys, and bedding out of the house. Soak the bowls in a solution of hot water mixed with baking soda for at least 30 minutes.
Blankets and toys can be washed using a washing machine. Use non-toxic detergent or baking soda. Clear the dog house by removing any solid waste such as hair or feces and then rinse it thoroughly using the solution. A regular household vacuum will come handy.
Step 2. Disinfect the Dog House
If household chemicals will be used, prior to the application, make sure you carefully read the directions on the product label. Apply the solution to all the surfaces of the dog house. If you are using a bleach solution, carefully dilute it in the ratio of 1:32, which means one part of bleach with thirty-two parts of water.
Also, after using bleach, rinse the surfaces of the house thoroughly as it can ruin clothing, irritate dog's upper airways and nasal passages, and might corrode a metal dog house.
Step 3. Brush Away
You can use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub all the walls, roof, and floor of the dog house.
Make sure to clean every inch of the house because if any area is left unsanitized, then diseases can transmit very quickly.
Don't forget to scrub and disinfect the door, latches, hinges and any other surface that can be missed.
As the solution requires time to work its magic, allow it to stand for some time (as specified by the manufacturer) and then rinse.
Step 4. Rinse and Dry
Lastly, rinse all the surfaces thoroughly using a steady stream of hot water and then dry the dog house entirely using a squeegee. It is important that you dry the materials and the house very well. A wet dog is prone to bad odors, not to mention a higher risk of bacteria growth.