As we begin SPRING CLEANING in our homes, it's a great time to deep clean our Hamster’s Enclosure(s)! While regular spot cleaning is essential, a spring cleaning helps maintain a healthy environment.
It is true that a complete cage clean can be stressful to a hamster, but it is necessary to do deeper spot cleanings time to time ensuring that your hamster is in the safest and healthiest environment. Here’s some tips for cleaning your hamster's enclosure in the least stress-inducing way:
✔️ Replace Worn-Out Items – Check for chewed-up sprays, peed on wooden items, or any other items that need replacing.
✔️ Clean Accessories – Deep clean food/water dishes, and any accessories that appear peed on or otherwise soiled with hot water (dawn dish soap is okay if well rinsed)
✔️ Refresh Bedding – For the sake of the environment, and stress of your hamsters, try to spot clean to check for damp or soiled bedding and only remove what's necessary.
✔️ Check for Drafts & Temperature Changes – Spring weather can be unpredictable. Try to ensure your hamster’s home stays between 65–75°F (If you're hot or cold, imagine how your hammy might feel)
✔️ Pest Prevention – Warmer weather can bring unwanted guests. Store food and treats properly and keep an eye out for wheat bugs and fruit flies.
✔️ Spoiled Food Items – only remove your hamster's food stashes if the food is spoiled or peed on; otherwise it's safe to leave it.
As far as when you should clean, if you can, try to clean in the evening, since hamsters are crepuscular.
Victoria Raechel has a fabulous video on cage cleaning linked here if you wanted to check that out for more information!