It's springtime in Minnesota! Time to emerge from our winter hibernation, get out, and take full advantage of the warmer weather and abundance of activities.

But with warming temperatures often comes a renewed emphasis on deep cleaning and getting our household organized in an effort to enjoy the active months ahead. Here are four spring cleaning hacks for pet parents so you can cross cleaning off your checklist and get back to living your best life with your best friend.

1. Launder pet beds and blankets

What’s that smell? Fabrics lock in odors which can add to the overall “pet smell” in your home and even make your furry friend smell less fresh. Small beds and blankets can be laundered — we suggest using a laundry additive that disinfects for extra cleaning power.

Large beds should be vacuumed, spot cleaned and then wiped with a vinegar and water solution before being placed in the sun to dry. Cat naps just got a whole lot neater.

2. Let your dishwasher do the work

Heavy duty toys like KONGS and other thick non-porous toys can easily be thrown in the dishwasher for an extra deep clean. Toss your tough toys in the upper rack of your washer and skip the drying cycle.

Use a natural detergent or vinegar solution to remove dirt, odors, and germs. Your pet will feel like they have a brand new toy and will love getting it dirty all over again!

3. Deep clean litter boxes

Sure, you scoop on a regular basis, but when is the last time you cleaned your cat’s actual litter box? Spring is the perfect time to dump your old litter and take your cat’s box outside for a thorough hosing off.

For extra freshness and odor fighting power, add a generous sprinkle of baking soda in the bottom of the box before adding litter back inside. Your cat will thank you for it.

4. Tackle tough stains

Been looking at that spot on the carpet all winter? Focus your spring cleaning energy on erasing it forever.

Mix two parts hydrogen peroxide* with one part baking soda and one part dish soap. Apply a generous amount and scrub with a soft-bristled brush. You can add this stain-fighting solution to warm water and soak collars and leashes as well. See ya later stains!

*Spot test before using hydrogen peroxide, which can lighten bright colors.

All clean?

Deodorize and freshen the air with pet-friendly sprays, diffusers, candles, or an air purifier. And keep it up! Stay ahead of the mess with these cleaning tips from pet parents. Regular cleaning can also be especially helpful for people who suffer from pet allergies.