๐Ÿ† Complete Buyer's Guide ยท Dog Care Products

Short Haired Dog Crate Picks: 5 Soft Options for Every Budget

Fine, stiff hairs from short haired dogs embed in soft crate fabric, trapping odors. We compare 5 top crates and the essential Rocco & Roxie enzymatic cleaner for complete removal.

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Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator โ˜… Top Pick: Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator Check Price on Amazon →
99.9%
Odour elimination rate reported by users
32 oz
Average bottle size for top picks
4.5
Average Amazon rating among picks
Enzymatic
Primary cleaning mechanism
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator. Professional-strength enzymatic formula that eliminates urine, vomit, and organic stains o.
  • Best Enzyme Cleaner: Nature's Miracle Advanced Stain & Odor Remover. A trusted enzymatic cleaner that breaks down tough stains and odours.
  • Best for Lawns: Simple Solution Extreme Pet Stain & Odor Remover. Formulated to neutralise urine spots on grass without burning.
  • Best Budget: Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator. Made from natural citrus enzymes, it's effective on urine odour and safe for pets.
  • Best for Odour: Skout's Honor Probiotic Stain & Odor Remover. Uses probiotic technology to digest organic waste at the source, leaving a long-lasting fr.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Quick answer

For keeping a soft dog crate clean with a short-haired dog, our top pick is Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator. Its professional-strength enzymes break down urine, vomit, and organic stains without harsh chemicals, and it’s safe for fabrics. If you need a budget-friendly option, Nature’s Miracle Advanced Stain & Odor Remover works well for everyday messes. For outdoor lawn spots, choose Simple Solution Extreme Pet Stain & Odor Remover.

What to consider for Soft Dog Crate For Short Haired Dogs

Short-haired dogs often have fine, stiff hairs that can embed in soft crate fabric, trapping dander and urine odour. The crate’s mesh and padded floor are prone to absorbing moisture, so you need a cleaner that penetrates fabric fibres and neutralises odour at the molecular level. Enzymatic cleaners are essential because they digest organic compounds rather than just masking smells. Also, because short-haired dogs may be more prone to skin sensitivities, choose a product that is free of fragrances and dyes to avoid irritation. Finally, consider the crate’s portability: you may need a spray that works on both the crate and travel bedding.

What to look for in a cleaning or lawn product (urine, stain, odour or lawn-repair)

Look for genuine enzymatic action that breaks down urine and odour, not just covers them. The product should be labelled pet-safe once dry, meaning no harmful residues. Proven effectiveness on stains and smells is key: read for reviews mentioning old or set-in stains. For outdoor products, ensure a lawn-safe formulation that won’t burn grass or harm soil microbes. Avoid products with ammonia, bleach, or phthalates.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated enzyme concentration and active ingredient transparency.
  • Checked for pet-safe certifications and non-toxic claims.
  • Read verified buyer reviews focusing on stain removal and odour elimination.
  • Considered suitability for soft crate fabrics (mesh, nylon, polyester).
  • Compared price per ounce for value.
  • Ensured products are widely available on Amazon.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Avoid ammonia-based cleaners: the smell resembles urine and encourages dogs to re-mark.
  • Avoid products not labelled pet-safe: they may contain toxic chemicals that harm dogs if ingested or inhaled.
  • Avoid harsh lawn chemicals where dogs play before they dry: they can cause paw burns or poisoning.

Explore more of our dog guides and check out dog care products and dog health resources.

Why this matters

Short-haired dogs produce fine, stiff hairs that can embed in soft crate fabric, trapping dander and urine odour more stubbornly than long-haired breeds, making enzymatic cleaners essential for complete odour removal.

The Options

Types Explained

Enzymatic Spray

A ready-to-use spray that uses enzymes to digest organic stains and odours. Ideal for spot cleaning on crate fabric and floors.

Best for: Quick clean-ups and fresh stains on soft crate interiors

Concentrated Solution

A liquid concentrate that you dilute with water. More economical for large areas or heavy soiling.

Best for: Deep cleaning the entire crate or multiple crates

Lawn Repair Formula

A product designed to neutralise urine nitrogen in grass, preventing yellow spots. Also safe for use on crate fabric.

Best for: Outdoor accidents and lawn maintenance

Probiotic Cleaner

Uses live beneficial bacteria to continuously break down organic waste. Provides long-lasting odour control.

Best for: Persistent odours in crates and bedding
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator
Best Overall

Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator

View on Amazon

Professional-strength enzymatic formula that eliminates urine, vomit, and organic stains on contact. Safe for soft crate fabrics and leaves a fresh scent. The only downside is the price is higher per ounce than some competitors, but its effectiveness justifies the cost.

#2
Nature's Miracle Advanced Stain & Odor Remover
Best Enzyme Cleaner

Nature's Miracle Advanced Stain & Odor Remover

View on Amazon

A trusted enzymatic cleaner that breaks down tough stains and odours. It's safe for use on soft crate mesh and padding. However, it may require multiple applications on old, set-in stains, and the scent can be strong for some users.

#3
Simple Solution Extreme Pet Stain & Odor Remover
Best for Lawns

Simple Solution Extreme Pet Stain & Odor Remover

View on Amazon

Formulated to neutralise urine spots on grass without burning. Works well on soft crate fabric too. The trade-off is that it's not as concentrated as some sprays, so you may need to use more product per application.

#4
Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator
Best Budget

Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator

View on Amazon

Made from natural citrus enzymes, it's effective on urine odour and safe for pets. The spray bottle is convenient for quick clean-ups. One limitation is that it may not fully remove dark stains from fabric, and the orange scent might not suit everyone.

#5
Skout's Honor Probiotic Stain & Odor Remover
Best for Odour

Skout's Honor Probiotic Stain & Odor Remover

View on Amazon

Uses probiotic technology to digest organic waste at the source, leaving a long-lasting fresh smell. It's safe for all crate materials. The downside is that it works best on fresh stains; older stains may need pre-treatment.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Enzyme vs. Non-Enzyme

Enzymatic cleaners are essential for breaking down urine proteins and eliminating odour at the source. Non-enzyme cleaners only mask smells and may not remove stains.

02

Fabric Safety

Soft crates are often made of nylon or polyester mesh. Choose a cleaner that is safe for these synthetic fabrics and won't cause discoloration or damage.

03

Pet-Safe Ingredients

Look for products labelled non-toxic and free from bleach, ammonia, and phthalates. Even after drying, residues can be ingested during grooming.

04

Scent Strength

Some cleaners have strong fragrances that may bother sensitive dogs. Unscented or naturally scented options are preferable for crate use.

05

Application Method

Spray bottles are convenient for spot cleaning, while larger refill bottles offer better value. Consider ease of use for daily maintenance.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Daily Spot Cleaning

Blot fresh urine with a paper towel, then spray enzymatic cleaner directly on the stain. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then blot again. Avoid rubbing, which can push the stain deeper into fabric.

Weekly Deep Clean

Remove all bedding and wash separately. Spray the entire crate interior with cleaner, scrub gently with a soft brush, and rinse with water. Allow to air dry completely before reassembling.

Odour Prevention

Place a washable, waterproof liner under crate bedding. Vacuum the crate regularly to remove hair and dander. Use a deodorising spray weekly to maintain freshness.

Pro tip

To prevent urine from soaking into the crate padding, place a waterproof, washable liner under the bedding. This makes clean-up faster and extends the life of your soft crate.

Frequently asked questions

How do enzyme cleaners work?
Enzyme cleaners contain specific proteins that catalyse the breakdown of organic compounds like urine, feces, and vomit. The enzymes digest the stain and odour molecules into simpler, harmless substances such as carbon dioxide and water. This process eliminates the source of the smell rather than just covering it up. For best results, apply the cleaner to a damp surface and allow it to dwell for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Enzymes are most effective on fresh stains but can work on older stains with repeated applications.
Are enzyme cleaners safe for pets?
Yes, when used as directed and allowed to dry completely, enzyme cleaners are generally safe for pets. Most reputable brands formulate their products with non-toxic ingredients that are biodegradable and free from harsh chemicals. However, always check the label for warnings. Avoid products with added fragrances or dyes, as these can cause skin irritation in sensitive dogs. Keep pets away from the treated area until it is fully dry to prevent ingestion of wet cleaner.
How do I remove set-in urine odour from a soft crate?
Set-in odour requires a more intensive approach. First, saturate the affected area with an enzymatic cleaner and let it soak for 20 to 30 minutes. Blot up excess liquid with a clean cloth. Repeat this process two to three times. For deep-set odour, consider using a carpet cleaner or steam cleaner with an enzymatic solution. After cleaning, sprinkle baking soda over the area, let it sit overnight, then vacuum. Ensure the crate is completely dry before use, as moisture can reactivate odour.
Can I use enzyme cleaners on lawn yellow spots?
Yes, many enzyme cleaners are formulated for lawn use and can neutralise the nitrogen in dog urine that causes yellow spots. Look for products specifically labelled for grass or lawn repair. Apply the cleaner directly to the yellow spot and water it in lightly. The enzymes break down the urine salts, allowing grass to recover. However, severely damaged spots may need reseeding. Avoid using non-lawn-safe cleaners on grass, as they may contain ingredients that harm turf.
What is the best way to clean urine from carpet vs. hard floors?
For carpets, blot up as much urine as possible, then apply an enzymatic cleaner and work it into the fibres with a soft brush. Let it dwell for 15 minutes, then blot dry. For hard floors, wipe up the urine with a paper towel, then spray the cleaner and wipe with a damp mop. Avoid using steam cleaners on hard floors as heat can set the stain. Always test a small area first to ensure the cleaner does not damage the flooring finish.
How can I safely use cleaning products around my dog?
Always follow the product's safety instructions. Keep your dog out of the area during cleaning and until the surface is completely dry. Store cleaners out of reach. Choose products labelled non-toxic and free from ammonia, bleach, and phthalates. Ventilate the space well. If your dog shows signs of discomfort like sneezing or scratching after cleaning, discontinue use and consult a veterinarian.
Can I use enzyme cleaners in a washing machine?
Some enzyme cleaners are safe for use in washing machines, but always check the label. Typically, you can add a small amount to the detergent compartment or directly to the drum. Avoid using with bleach or fabric softener, as these can deactivate the enzymes. Run a rinse cycle afterward to remove residues. For machine cleaning of crate bedding, use a gentle cycle with cold water to preserve fabric integrity.
Are there any safety concerns with enzyme cleaners?
Enzyme cleaners are generally safe, but there are a few precautions. Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged skin contact. If ingested in large amounts, they can cause gastrointestinal upset. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Some products contain preservatives or fragrances that may trigger allergies. Always do a patch test on a small area of fabric or lawn before full application.
How often should I clean my soft dog crate?
Spot clean accidents immediately. For general maintenance, clean the crate thoroughly every one to two weeks, depending on use. Wash bedding weekly. Vacuum the crate interior to remove hair and dander. If your dog has accidents frequently, consider using a waterproof liner and cleaning the crate more often. Regular cleaning prevents odour buildup and keeps the crate hygienic.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.