It’s March. The clocks are preparing to jump forward, the first brave daffodils are nodding in the breeze, and—most importantly—the sun is finally hitting your windows at an angle that reveals exactly how many nose-prints are on the glass.

If you live with dogs in the UK, you’ve likely spent the last few months in a constant cycle of “towelling, mopping, and hoping the smell goes away.” But as the mud begins to dry and the winter coats start to shed, it’s time for the legendary Spring Clean. Whether your dog has their own dedicated “boot room” or just a very well-loved corner of the lounge, here is how to banish the winter funk for good.

1. The Great Bedding “Boil Wash”

Let’s be honest: by the time March rolls around, the dog bed is usually more of a “soggy sponge of memories” than a fresh place to sleep. Winter damp and heater-induced dust mites love a plush dog bed.

Check the care labels, but most high-quality brands recommend a wash at 60°C to properly kill off bacteria and allergens. If the bed is too big for your machine, a trip to the local launderette with their industrial-sized washers is a Saturday morning well spent.

Pro Tip: Toss a cup of white vinegar into the rinse cycle. It’s a natural disinfectant that helps break down that stubborn “wet dog” odour without using harsh chemicals.

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2. Toy Triage (and the Dishwasher Hack)

It’s time to empty the toy box and face the music. We all have that one “squeaky” toy that is now just a damp rag held together by hope and saliva.

  • Soft Toys: Pop them in a mesh laundry bag (or an old pillowcase) and throw them in with the bedding.
  • Rubber & Plastic Toys: Save yourself the scrubbing and put them on the top rack of the dishwasher. A standard cycle will sanitise them better than any hand-washing ever could.
  • The Triage: If a toy is missing half its stuffing or has dangerous jagged edges, it’s time for it to go in the bin. Sorry, Fido.

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3. De-Grit the Gear

Your leads, collars, and harnesses have been through the wars this winter. Between the road salt, the grit, and the February mud, the hardware (buckles and clips) can start to seize up or rust.

Soak all nylon gear in a sink of warm, soapy water. Use an old toothbrush to get the dried mud out of the buckles. For leather gear, a proper wipe-down with saddle soap will prevent it from cracking as the weather warms up. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s a safety check to ensure nothing snaps on your first long spring walk.

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4. Banish the “Tumble-Furs”

In the UK, March is when the “Spring Shed” truly begins. You’ll likely find that moving the sofa or the sideboard reveals a hidden ecosystem of fur-nadoes.

Once you’ve done the big hoover, take a damp rubber glove and run your hand over the carpets, the rug edges, and the dog’s favourite chair. You’ll be horrified (and strangely satisfied) by the amount of hair the vacuum missed. Finish by wiping down the skirting boards—they are the unsung heroes that catch 90% of the airborne dog dander.

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5. The Pantry Audit

Finally, turn your attention to the treats and food bin. We often forget that dog treats have “best before” dates too!

Empty out the airtight containers, wash them thoroughly to remove old fats and oils, and dry them completely before refilling. Check the back of the cupboard for those half-finished bags of “Christmas Turkey” treats that are now past their prime. While you’re there, give the floor mat under the bowls a scrub—it’s usually the epicentre of the “dog room” smell.

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