DIY Spring Cleaning Checklist for Pet Parents: Keep Your Home Pet-Friendly

Spring has officially sprung across Aotearoa, and that means it’s the perfect time to roll up your sleeves and freshen up your home. For pet parents, a good spring clean isn’t just about tackling dust and clutter — it’s also about creating a clean, healthy environment for your furry (or feathery) friends. This DIY spring cleaning checklist for pet parents is designed to help you prioritise the spots that matter most, using pet-safe strategies to keep tails wagging and whiskers twitching all season long.

Declutter Pet Gear And Organise Essentials

From leashes to litter scoops, pet gear tends to multiply when we’re not looking. Start by sorting through your pet supplies — toss what’s broken, donate what’s still usable, and find a dedicated storage space for daily essentials. This is also a great time to top up on anything running low, like treats, grooming tools, or waste bags. For a fresh restock, explore our Great Finds Under $20 collection for tail-wagging value.

If you use food containers, clean them thoroughly and dry them before refilling. Need pet-safe, odour-resistant options? Check out our range of great value bowls and feeders.

Deep Clean Bedding, Toys And Accessories

Our pets’ bedding and favourite toys can become a sneaky source of smells and allergens. Strip bedding and wash it with a pet-safe detergent. If it’s time for a refresh, explore dog bedding or cat bedding designed for cosiness and easy cleaning.

Soft toys can often be machine-washed, while hard toys benefit from a warm water and vinegar soak. If any are cracked or chewed beyond safety, replace them with new pet toys that provide fun and mental stimulation.

Scrub Bowls, Feeders And Fountains

Even the cleanest homes can miss how quickly slobber and crumbs build up in feeding spots. Clean your pet’s bowls and fountains weekly with hot water and dish soap. Pets drinking from moving water tend to stay more hydrated, so cleaning your smart pet fountains is especially important to avoid bacteria buildup.

Also remember to disinfect any automatic feeders or kibble dispensers — and if you’re still using plastic feeders, consider swapping them for stainless steel or ceramic options that resist bacteria better.

Refresh Litter Areas And Toilet Spots

Pet loo spots are a hot zone for odours and germs. If you have a cat, replace litter entirely and scrub down the litter box with mild soap. Autodeliver services can help you stay on top of litter replenishment — simply explore our clean-up and litter essentials that are available on Autodeliver.

For dogs, give any training pads or toilet surfaces a once-over and sanitise outdoor areas. If accidents leave lingering reminders, a quality stain and odour remover can be a game changer (and nose-saver!).

Don’t Forget Grooming Stations And Carriers

Brushes, combs, nail clippers and grooming tools deserve their own spring cleaning moment. Wash tools with warm, soapy water and disinfect. If you're in need of an upgrade, shop fresh pet grooming essentials to keep your pet looking and feeling their best.

Pet carriers and travel accessories also benefit from a good clean, especially if they'll be seeing more use with sunny day adventures ahead. Explore our dog travel gear or cat carriers for refreshed, comfortable options.

Reassess Supplements And Expiry Dates

Time flies — and so can supplement use-by dates. Check any medications, flea and worm treatments, and pet health supplements you have on hand. Discard expired items safely (away from curious noses or paws) and make a list of what needs replacing. From skin and coat care to calming aids, we’ve stocked our shelves with trusted brands including Fourflax, VetPlus and more.

Seasonal Prep: Spring Allergies And Outdoor Safety

As flowers bloom and pollen flies, it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for springtime allergies in pets. Itchy skin or extra paw-licking could call for products from our skin and coat health collection. Regular grooming and vacuuming can help trap allergens before they spread to your pet’s bedding or coat.

Also consider checking your outdoor setups. Clean pet doors, inspect fences, and make sure your pet’s ID tags are legible and secure, or update with new pet tags before the next garden dash.

Let Your Home Shine For You And Your Pet

Spring cleaning isn’t just about sparkling surfaces — it’s about peace of mind. A fresh and organised space keeps your pet healthier, safer, and happier. Whether it’s updating essentials or treating your buddy to a new toy, Petdirect makes it easy to find what you need with convenience, care and expert service. And with Autodeliver, our Pet Perks Loyalty Programme, and Airpoints™ rewards, refreshing your pet care routine is something to feel great about.

Start your spring refresh with our top-rated pet summer essentials and let your home bloom with pet-friendly vibes!