How to Clean and Sanitize GUNNER Food Crates: A Step-by-Step Guide
By GUNNER | Published: 2026-09-08
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to clean and sanitize your GUNNER Food Crate with our step-by-step guide. Keep kibble fresh, remove odors, and maintain your pet food storage.
Quick Answer
To clean your GUNNER Food Crate, empty it, wash with warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and air dry completely before refilling. For sanitizing, use a diluted bleach solution or a pet-safe disinfectant, then rinse well to remove any residue.
Keeping your dog's food storage clean is essential for freshness and hygiene. A dirty crate can harbor bacteria, mold, and pests, which can spoil kibble and make your dog sick. Regular cleaning also extends the life of your GUNNER Food Crate and keeps it looking great.
This guide walks you through a simple, effective cleaning routine that you can do at home. We'll cover daily maintenance, deep cleaning, and sanitizing, plus tips for removing stubborn odors. With a little effort, you'll ensure your dog's food stays safe and appetizing.
Why Regular Cleaning Matters
Dog food contains oils and fats that can become rancid over time, especially if the crate isn't sealed properly. Residue from kibble can also attract ants, weevils, and other pests. A clean crate prevents these issues and keeps your dog's food fresh for longer.
GUNNER Food Crates are designed for durability and airtight storage, but that doesn't mean they're self-cleaning. Even the best storage solution requires occasional maintenance to perform at its best. Regular cleaning also lets you inspect the crate for any wear or damage that might affect its seal.
- Check the rubber gasket regularly for cracks or debris that can break the seal.
- Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth to keep it looking new and prevent dust buildup.
What You'll Need
Gather your supplies before you start: warm water, mild dish soap or a pet-safe cleaner, a soft sponge or cloth, a bottle brush for tight corners, and a clean towel for drying. For sanitizing, you'll need either a diluted bleach solution (1 tablespoon bleach per gallon of water) or a commercial pet-safe disinfectant.
Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or harsh chemicals that could scratch the plastic or leave harmful residue. Always rinse thoroughly to ensure no soap or sanitizer remains, as dogs are sensitive to strong smells and residues.
- Use a toothbrush for detailed cleaning around hinges and latches.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
- Empty the crate completely: Pour out all kibble into a temporary container. Use this opportunity to check for any pests or signs of moisture. If you see any, discard the food and inspect the crate for cracks. Checkpoint: Ensure no food remains before cleaning.
- Brush out loose debris: Use a dry paper towel or soft brush to sweep out crumbs and dust from the corners and along the gasket. This prevents clogs and makes washing more effective. Common mistake: Skipping this step can leave residue that soap won't reach.
- Wash with warm soapy water: Fill a sink or basin with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Dip a soft sponge or cloth, and wipe down the interior and exterior. Use a bottle brush for tight corners and the gasket groove. Checkpoint: Rinse the sponge often to avoid spreading dirt.
- Rinse thoroughly: Hold the crate under running water or use a clean, damp cloth to remove all soap residue. Soap left behind can affect the taste of the food and attract pests. Common mistake: Inadequate rinsing leaves a film that can harbor bacteria.
- Sanitize with a pet-safe solution: Mix 1 tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water, or use a pet-safe disinfectant. Apply with a cloth or spray bottle, ensuring full coverage inside and out. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water. Checkpoint: Always rinse until there is no scent of bleach or cleaner.
- Air dry completely: Place the crate upside down on a drying rack or clean towel. Allow it to air dry completely for at least 2-3 hours before adding food. Moisture can cause mold and spoil kibble. Checkpoint: Ensure the gasket is dry to maintain an airtight seal.
GUNNER Food Crate Essentials
- FOOD CRATE NAME PLATE: Personalize your GUNNER Food Crate with our new custom name plate. A name plate not only adds a personal touch but also helps identify your crate, especially if you have multiple dogs or board your dog overnight.
- GUNNER DOG BOWL - SULPHUR SPRINGS: All-new color unleashed in Sulphur Springs. Part of the limited-edition Color Fetch collection. Pair your clean Food Crate with a matching bowl for a cohesive look—and the bowl's design makes feeding time easy at home or on adventures.
With these steps, your GUNNER Food Crate will stay clean, fresh, and ready for use. Regular maintenance— at least once a month or whenever you switch kibble batches—keeps your dog's food safe and your crate in top condition. Pair it with the optional custom name plate to keep your setup organized, and you'll have a reliable storage solution for years to come.
