Ducks can be a hard learning curve. Don't beat yourself up too hard about it. A lot of us have learned the hard way. Pekins are unfortunately a bit more difficult than other breeds in some ways. They can be a bit messier than other breeds.I’m actually crying right now, I usually clean their cage every 2 days. I use pine shavings and straw on top of that. I’m so upset with myself I am not at all trying to do anything to harm them. They right now spend most of their time in their cage. They don’t have a coop yet but we’re working on it. I’m a first time duck owner and this is all new to me. I’m so sad I can’t believe I’m the cause of this.
With the warmer weather, taking advantage of using outdoor areas does help a lot. I have been able to not necessarily fully clean everyday, if I layered new bedding on top. But you still have to spot clean anything wet bedding. It also depends on how many you have and the space you have.
I use to make easy pens out of chicken wire and just some cheap fence posts. You can put shade cloth, bird netting or a tarp over it. It will certainly not be predator proof, but it does work well in a pinch. This is the best picture I have of the temporary pens I would use.