Autumn Cleaning

Autumn is a season of change, from decreasing daylight to cooler weather to leaves on the trees. Like spring cleaning, autumn cleaning is an opportunity for a fresh start.

Seasonal upkeep isn’t simply about tidying up. It’s also about embracing change and setting the stage for the coming months. Autumn cleaning, in particular, is a wonderful way to prepare for the holiday season so that you and your loved ones can enjoy each other’s company knowing that your home is safe and comfortable. Set the stage for the Autumn season with these tips.

Autumn Cleaning: Declutter & Organize

Begin by decluttering your living spaces, packing away summer decor, and organizing your belongings. Go through each room and take an inventory of what you need and what you don’t. Sort the “don’t” pile into trash, donate, or give away. Then follow through – don’t leave piles of junk sitting around in closets! (As tempting as that might be.) Organize what remains.

Autumn Cleaning

Deep Clean

Dig deep into the tasks you may not be attending to during regular cleaning. We recommend wearing a mask while deep cleaning to reduce the amount of dust and chemicals you are breathing in.

  • Dust and vacuum hidden corners, ceiling fans, and baseboards.
  • Wash windows to allow more natural light to filter in.
  • Clean and store outdoor furniture for the winter months.
  • Refresh carpets and upholstery to give your home a renewed feel. Consider calling in a professional if necessary.
  • Rotate and flip mattresses.

Maintenance & Safety

Certain maintenance activities are easy to forget, and it's vital to prepare your home for the cold and inclement weather when autumn cleaning.

  • Check and clean your fireplace or heating system.
  • Inspect doors and windows for drafts, sealing gaps as needed.
  • Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent clogs during autumn and winter storms.
  • Replace burnt-out lightbulbs and check lighting fixtures.
  • Clean and replace HVAC filters and AC units.

Autumn Cleaning: Kitchen Refresh

We've covered some important aspects of deep cleaning and maintenance, but the kitchen deserves special attention when autumn cleaning in preparation for holiday cooking, baking, and hosting!

  • Clean out the refrigerator, discarding expired items.
  • Scrub and sanitize sinks and faucets.
  • Deep-clean your oven and stovetop.
  • Organize your pantry, discarding expired items and making a list of what you need for the season ahead.

A deep cleaning in autumn can be a time-consuming process, but the reward lies in relaxing and enjoying time with your loved ones over the holiday season. If you are looking for more tips to prepare you home for the holidays, please see our article Preparing for the Holiday Season.