Quick answer
For cleaning a soft dog crate used by an Australian Shepherd, our top pick is Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator. It uses powerful enzymes to break down urine and eliminate odors at the source, and it’s safe for use on fabric crates. If you need a budget-friendly option for daily spot cleaning, Nature’s Miracle Advanced Stain & Odor Remover is a reliable alternative.
What to consider for Soft Dog Crate For Australian Shepherds
Australian Shepherds are active, intelligent dogs that may be prone to accidents in their crate, especially during travel or potty training. Soft crates are often made of nylon or mesh, which can trap odors and stains. When choosing a cleaning product, look for enzymatic formulas that penetrate fabric fibers to break down urine crystals and eliminate smells completely. Avoid bleach or ammonia-based cleaners, as they can damage the crate material and leave residues that attract dogs to re-soil. Also consider whether the product is safe for use around pets and children once dry.
What to look for in a cleaning or lawn product (urine, stain, odour or lawn-repair)
Choose a product with genuine enzymatic action that breaks down urine and odour at the molecular level, not just masks them. Ensure it uses pet-safe ingredients that are non-toxic once dry, especially for use inside a crate where your dog will be in close contact. Look for proven effectiveness on both fresh and set-in stains and smells, as Australian Shepherd urine can be potent. For outdoor use on lawns, select a formula that is lawn-safe and won’t burn grass or harm soil microbes.
How we chose these picks
- Evaluated enzyme concentration and formula transparency from publicly available product information.
- Checked for pet-safe certifications and non-toxic claims from manufacturers.
- Read verified customer reviews focusing on effectiveness on dog urine and odor in fabric and on lawns.
- Considered suitability for soft crate materials (nylon, mesh) without causing damage or discoloration.
- Compared price per ounce to offer options for different budgets.
- Included products that work on both indoor stains and outdoor lawn spots.
- Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.
What to avoid
- Avoid ammonia-based cleaners: the smell of ammonia resembles urine and encourages dogs to re-mark the area.
- Avoid products not labelled pet-safe: some contain harsh chemicals that can irritate your dog’s skin or respiratory system.
- Avoid harsh lawn chemicals that require keeping dogs off the grass until completely dry and rinsed.
For more expert advice, check out our dog guides, dog care products, and dog health articles.
