how to make a bin cage at home

Bin cages are great options for hamsters, mice, and even hedgehogs. The most important aspects of a safe bin cage is to ensure there is enough ventilation. Plastic bins are known to hold in moisture, which can lead to high levels of ammonia which is why proper ventilation is important. Latching lids are the best options, especially for escape artists like hamsters. Ventilation can be provided through the lid or through the sides of the bin. Be aware that choosing to ventilate the sides of a bin also pose a risk of an animal chewing through or not being able to properly hold bedding.

WHAT SIZE BIN DO YOU NEED?

Although the label reads the dimensions, always measure the bin from the inside. The label states the measurements from the top while most bins narrow in and are smaller on the inside. If going based on the dimensions listed, we suggest subtracting 200 square inches to determine what the inside dimensions are closer to.

By Species:

Hamsters: 200 qt bin (>600 square inches)
1-2 Mice: 110 or 120 qt bin
2+ Mice: 200 qt bin
Hedgehog: >1000 square inches (Sterilite Tree Box)

SUPPLIES NEEDED

Clear plastic storage bin
Measuring tool (ex: measuring tape or ruler)
Permanent marker
Tool to cut plastic (ex: hot knife, jigsaw, oscillating tool, soldering iron, box cutter)
Tool to smooth rough plastic edges (ex: sanding block, dremel, sandpaper)
Galvanized Steel Hardware Cloth (1/4 or 1/2 inch grid spacing)
Tool to cut hardware cloth (ex: wire cutters, flush cutters)
Took to smooth hardware cloth edges (ex: die grinder)
Plastic zip ties or cable ties
Scissors to cut the ends of the zip ties/cable ties
Tool to drill holes in lid (drill with but slightly larger than the width of the zip tie/cable tie but smaller than the head of the zip tie/cable tie)
Optional duct tape to decorate outside of bin

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Use measuring tool and permanent marker to mark on your bin where you plan to cut (typically the lid and/or wide side of bin). Be sure to leave at least 1/2 inch of plastic around all sides of the opening (as you will need to drill holes and attach the cable ties to this part of the bin)
Use your tool to cut the plastic opening out of the bin
Sand down the edges of the bin that was cut using your tool to smooth rough edges.
Optional to cover the edges of the opening with duct tape at this time for decoration.
Lay the hardware cloth over the opening and cut out a piece to fit over the opening. Leave at least 1/2 inch overlay on all sides (this will cover part of the duct tape).
SmootH out the edges of the hardware cloth to ensure it is not pokey or sharp.
Once cut and place over the opening, use the permanent marker to mark where you wish to drill holes along all four sides of the opening.
Use your tool to drill holes along the edge of the opening where marked.
Place the hardware cloth over the opening from the inside of the bin. This helps prevent chewing. Ensure all edges are not sharp and cannot harm the animal.
Start threading the cable ties through and cut the excess cable tie ends off. For security, drill more holes and add more cable ties as needed.

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