When cleaning a rat’s house you must first take the rat out of its cage and put her (or him) somewhere safe (with a family member or friend or a temporary cage). This might help to relieve stress on her. Second take all the toys (this includes food dish) out of the house. This makes it easier to clean the house. Third get a plastic bag and something to scoop up bedding with. Next clean the potty area (usually rats have one certain place where they "go") and find hidden food. Clean any ramps, toys, or other things that are dirty. After the cage is clean, put new bedding in and all the toys. Finally put your rat back in her clean house. Some people say it is a lot of work to do this, but I disagree. It only takes about fifteen minutes.