We’re all familiar with spring cleaning, but have you heard of fall cleaning? It’s arguably more important than spring cleaning because cooler weather and the holidays are quickly approaching, which means guests, parties, and more time spent indoors. The weather is mild enough in autumn to make cleaning the outside and inside of your home manageable. Read on to find out tips and tricks to fall cleaning this year.
Outdoor Furniture
It’s time to get the outdoor furniture cleaned up and ready to go back into storage. Pick a dry, sunny day to give the chairs and tables a good bath, so when you remove them come spring, they’re good to go.
Pay particular attention to stains. You don’t want to allow them to settle in deeper while in storage, making them harder to remove later.
If you don’t have space to store the furniture, invest in high-quality and heavy-duty tarps or custom covers to wrap the pieces with and secure with bungee cords.
Gutters and Downspouts
Those gorgeous autumn leaves are perfect for clogging gutters and downspouts. Not cleaning them looks messy, and it will also cause issues, such as rotting wood or roof leaks, if not addressed.
If your home has numerous trees on your property, you may end up having to clean out the gutters more than once.
Chimney and Fireplace
Have the chimney cleaned and swept before it’s time to use it. It’s best if you have this done yearly to prevent buildup and accidental fires.
Have your gas logs and fireplaces inspected as well, so you know they’re ready for use.
Reverse Ceiling Fans
If you’ve been using your ceiling fans all summer, it’s time to turn them off and clean them. While you’re up there, take time to find the switch and reverse the fan’s direction. This task will direct the heat down to keep you warmer during the colder temperatures.
Deep Clean Inside
Summer is a busy time of year for most individuals and families. Use this time to deep clean the house and areas that you neglected during the warmer months.
Bedroom
- Prepare heavier winter bedding
- Vacuum and flip the mattress
- Clean the carpet and rugs
Bathroom
- Organize and clean out the cabinets
- Dispose of expired medications
- Wash the shower curtain and mats
- Clean light fixtures
Living Room
- Vacuum upholstered furniture
- Dust the baseboards and books
- Wash the walls and remove scuff marks
Kitchen
- Clean out the pantry and create a list of items you’ll need if you’re a holiday baker
- Scrub down the oven and vent hood
- Clean out the refrigerator and freezer, removing expired food
- Dust the refrigerator coils
- Clean and inspect smaller appliances, such as the toaster or air fryer
Wash Windows Inside and Out
Another tip for fall cleaning is to get the windows prepped to let in the winter sunshine. You’ll be opening up your windows again to allow in the fresh autumn breeze, so take this time to remove all the smudges from kids, rain, and pets.
De-Clutter
Walk through your home and put things back in their place or create space for the new stuff that accumulated over the summer. If you find that your home suddenly lacks enough storage, consider investing in furniture that will increase your storage.
Use this time to wipe down blinds or wash drapery. They are dust collectors, and washing them will help fight against allergies.