The most common problem with keeping your dog in a locked area indoors is controlling the odor. Sometimes, even the best-behaved dog can leave a smell behind after having to be contained for an extended period of time due to either a wet coat, an accident, drooling, or simply using its bedding for a long time in a confined area. Over time, a regular crate may hold an odor, particularly if air circulation is poor or you don’t clean the crate frequently enough.
A specially designed odor control dog crate will help reduce the odor trapped inside the crate by improving air circulation through the closure of the crate, using materials that are easy to clean, and reducing moisture build-up inside the crate.
Most odor control dog crates also come with either washable trays or removable liners, or even with antimicrobial surfaces that will help keep the crate smelling better longer. Choosing an appropriate crate can significantly help maintain a house that smells fresh while keeping your dog as comfortable indoors as possible.
Best Overall Odor Control Dog Crate
MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate with Leak-Proof Pan
Of all the indoor crates available, the MidWest iCrate has become popular for its unique combination of ventilation, durability, and easy clean-up. The wire frame construction provides an open design that allows air to circulate freely throughout the crate, preventing the accumulation of odours in the crate itself.
The removable leak-proof plastic pan located at the base of the crate is an added benefit, as it makes it easy to manage accidents and keeps cleaning up after your pet simple. The pan does not trap odours but rather can be removed from the crate, cleaned, and quickly returned to its original position.
Features
- Strong wire frame with open ventilation
- Removable leak-proof plastic tray
- Foldable design for easy cleaning and storage
- Secure double door latch system
- Divider panel for growing dogs
Pros
- Excellent airflow reduces odor buildup
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Affordable and widely available
- Suitable for most dog sizes
Cons
- Not fully enclosed (less privacy for anxious dogs)
- Can be noisy if the dog moves inside
Check Price on Amazon:
Best Enclosed Odor Control Crate
Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel
The Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel is a structurally sound plastic crate that was constructed with the intention of creating an enclosed, den-like atmosphere. Enclosed crates may trap odours; this unit has adequate ventilation holes that help to maintain air circulation while providing a feeling of privacy for dogs. The plastic interior of the crate allows for easy wipe down, which is an advantage for controlling odours compared to fabric-based and/or soft-sided crates.
Features
- Hard plastic shell construction
- Ventilation slots on all sides
- Secure metal door with locking system
- Smooth interior for easy cleaning
- Airline-approved design
Pros
- Easy to disinfect and clean
- Good ventilation for the enclosed crate
- Provides privacy for anxious dogs
- Durable and travel-friendly
Cons
- Less airflow than wire crates
- Bulkier design for home use
Check Price on Amazon:
Best Premium Odor Control Crate
Diggs Revol Dog Crate
Diggs Revol has created an innovative new premium dog crate that’s built with safety in mind and is easy to clean. Instead of using traditional wire cages, they have smooth surfaces as well as superior airflow and the ability to easily collapse for easier cleaning purposes. This dog crate also has the best working feature when it comes to controlling odors, thanks to its removable trays and use of non-porous, high-quality materials that do not easily retain odor.
Features
- Collapsible modern design
- Smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces
- Strong ventilation system
- Puppy divider included
- Reinforced safety locks
Pros
- Excellent build quality
- Very easy to clean thoroughly
- Modern design fits indoor spaces
- Strong odor-resistant materials
Cons
- Expensive compared to standard crates
- Heavier than basic wire models
Check Price on Amazon:
Best Budget Odor Control Crate
Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Dog Crate
Amazon Basics Foldable Crates provide great odor control because of their simple, affordable metal construction with removable plastic liners & their open design allows air to flow freely, which helps keep odors from accumulating, even without any high-tech solutions for controlling odors.
Features
- Foldable wire frame
- Removable plastic tray for easy cleaning
- Double door access
- Lightweight and portable
- Multiple size options
Pros
- Very affordable
- Good ventilation reduces odor
- Easy to clean tray system
- Quick setup and storage
Cons
- Basic materials and finish
- Not ideal for heavy chewers
Check Price on Amazon:
Best Heavy-Duty Odor Control Crate
ProSelect Empire Dog Cage
The ProSelect Empire dog crate was created with only the strongest escape artists or excessive chewers in mind. The crate is different than other crates in the sense that it is not only incredibly durable, but it also provides some great odor control.
This is attributed to the open frame steel design of the crate and the fact that the dog crate has a removable tray system. The heavy-duty construction of the crate allows for easy deep cleaning and helps to eliminate odours over time.
Features
- Heavy-gauge steel construction
- Locking safety system
- Slide-out removable tray
- Strong ventilation design
- Industrial-grade durability
Pros
- Extremely durable
- Easy to hose down and clean
- Excellent airflow
- Long-lasting structure
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy and less portable
Check Price on Amazon:
Best Soft Crate with Odor Resistance
EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate
Though soft crates usually fail to contain odors effectively, the EliteField has many features that allow for the best odor control available, such as a removable, washable fabric cover and strong ventilation panels. It may be an acceptable choice for comfort and portability, provided that it is cleaned frequently enough.
Features
- Three-door mesh ventilation design
- Washable fabric cover
- Steel tube frame support
- Foldable and portable
- Padded base for comfort
Pros
- Lightweight and travel-friendly
- Comfortable for dogs
- Good airflow through mesh panels
- Easy to fold and store
Cons
- Fabric can absorb odors over time
- Not ideal for messy or untrained dogs
Check Price on Amazon:
How to Reduce Odor in Any Dog Crate
In order to keep your pet’s crate free of bad smells, you should regularly clean the crate. In order for your crate to last longer, you need to rinse off the bottom tray once a week, put a clean bed into your pet’s crate after a week or two, and wipe down the walls of the crate with a damp cloth. Using a washable crate liner may also help to reduce odors because the liner will not absorb liquids like a thick, soft bed would. Proper ventilation will help reduce the amount of odors by making it easier for them to escape from the crate, rather than allowing them to accumulate.
Choosing the Right Odor Control Crate
You want to look at your pet’s habits and the job you do with cleaning. A wire crate is best for air and reducing odors, while a dog crate made from plastic is very easy to wipe. New upgraded crates are a balance of hygiene and durability (however, they will be more costly). You would want to consider that the dog will be well-trained and not mess inside if you are using a soft crate.
Conclusion
Crates that control odors create a comfortable indoor pet (and pet parent) environment. Ventilation, cleaning materials, and removable trays are the main components of lessening odor. Wire crates such as the MidWest iCrate have superior air flow. Plastic crates such as the Petmate Vari Kennel have a simple wipe-down cleaning.
Premium-style crates, like the Diggs Revol, represent stylish modern design with cleaning & hygienic purposes. The final decision should be based on your pet’s size, activity level, and your cleaning routine. With routine care and proper crate design, you will be able to keep your house clean and provide your dog with an area for safety and comfort.