Litter train your little critter and you'll cut down on the number of cage cleanings required.
To get the little fella trained, just put a little clumping scent-free kittty litter into each corner.
If you are debating on whether to get a Hamster, or a Gerbil as a rodent pet, I would suggest you get a Gerbil. Unlike Hamsters, who are nocturnal, and the run in that darn wheel that squeaks all night, Gerbils are active during the day. These little guys are so interesting to watch. They run around, chew on things, bury food, and other things. Also, hamster urinate constantly, but Gerbils only urinate every so often, so your Gerbil cage almost never smells. Also, if you decide to get a Gerbil, I suggest you get two, and if you want a family of Gerbils, get a male and female. It's amazing how careful the female Gerbil will handle those pink, tiny babies. The babies will grow fur, and run around like crazy while their eyes are still closed! So, I highly recommend a Gerbil because they are a lot of fun for only around Six dollars per Gerbil. - Steven S