Your Autumn Home Refresh Checklist

Fall is officially on the scene, and that means it's time for an autumn reset. You've heard about a thorough spring clean, but have you tried resetting your space for the fall season? Cleaning in the fall is a great way to declutter, freshen up your living space, and prepare for winter in the months to come. To help you tackle your fall cleaning effectively, we've put together a handy checklist that you can follow and complete as you go! 

 

~ Inside The Home ~

 

Declutter & Organize

A great place to start is by decluttering your home. Go through the closets, cabinets, and shelves, and get rid of any items you no longer need or that no longer serve a purpose in your space. Create functional piles to donate, sell, or recycle the items as you see fit. While you are decluttering your space it is also a great time to reorganize your belongings and find suitable storage solutions to keep things tidy. By decluttering your space before you organize it you will have fewer things to find a home for. 

Clean The Windows

With more time spent indoors during the fall, it's good to have clean windows to let in ample natural light throughout the day. Dust off the window sills, wash the curtains and give the windows a thorough cleaning inside and out. Getting your windows clean during the fall will help you set up your home for the winter season to come. 

Deep Clean Carpets & Rugs

Refresh your carpets and rugs by giving them a much-needed deep clean. Start by vacuuming them thoroughly and then spot-clean any visible stains. Using a handheld carpet cleaner that you have at home or one rented from a local business, give your carpets a thorough wash to leave your home smelling and feeling fresh. 

Service The HVAC System

Before turning on the heat for the first time this season, schedule a professional HVAC maintenance check. They will clean or replace filters, ensure everything is in working order, and optimize energy efficiency for the colder months ahead.

Dust & Clean Light Fixtures

One part of the home that often gets neglected when it comes to thorough cleaning is overhead lighting. Give both your light fixtures and your ceiling fans a good dusting, taking the time to remove their glass or plastic coverings and any cobwebs. Take out the bulbs and clean them, replacing any burnt-out bulbs when necessary. This step will make your overhead lighting sparkle and shine brighter!

Wipe Down Walls & Baseboards

We recommend giving your walls and baseboards a good dusting before you begin. Next, take a damp cloth with mild soap and gently wipe them down throughout your home. This simple task can remove dirt, dust, and fingerprints that may have accumulated over time throughout your space.

Clean & Inspect The Fireplace

Before spending your cool fall nights cozying up by the fire, clean the fireplace thoroughly. This involves removing the ashes and cleaning the hearth. If necessary have a chimney professional inspect your fireplace and give it a deeper cleaning. 

Deep Clean The Kitchen

Although the kitchen is part of the home that gets cleaned daily, there are key areas of the space to focus on during your fall reset. Give both your appliances and kitchen cabinets a deep clean inside and out. Wipe down the backsplash and countertops, making sure to remove all items to clean behind them. This will require some elbow grease so take your time to complete this task. We also recommend descaling coffee makers and kettles to freshen them up for the season. 

Freshen Up Bedding & Mattresses

Give your bedding a clean start for the new season. Wash your pillows, sheets, duvet, duvet cover, and mattress cover. Next, flip your mattress and give it a fresh scent by sprinkling it with baking soda, allowing it to sit and then vacuuming it up. This will ensure a fresh and cozy sleep environment for the fall.

Prepare Your Wardrobe

As you transition your wardrobe from summer to fall, clean and store your summer clothes, making room for warm fall attire in your closet and dresser. Take the time to launder your coats, jackets, and sweaters before wearing them in the cool weather to come this fall. 

 

~ Outside The Home ~

 

Clean Out The Gutters

As leaves start to fall, make sure your gutters are clear of debris. Clean them out to avoid any blockages and potential water damage during heavy rains. Having this task done before winter is essential, you'll thank us later! 

Clean & Store Outdoor Furniture

As the outdoor entertaining season winds down, clean and store your outdoor furniture properly. Give them a good scrub, allow them to dry completely, and store them in a dry area to prevent damage from the elements over the fall and winter seasons. 

Put Away Gardening Tools

This tip is for my avid spring and summer gardeners. Once you have yielded your last crop of the season, take the time to drain your garden hose and put away your respective tools in your shed or garage. This will ensure that you know where to find them as the snow starts to melt and this will prevent them from rusting outdoors. 

Check Weather Stripping & Caulking Doors & Windows

As the weather turns colder we know that it won't be long before the winter snow is on its way. We want the cold air to stay outside when we are heating our homes, to prevent that we need to ensure windows and doors are sealed properly. Take the time to check out the weather stripping, replace it and add new caulking if necessary.  

Remember, this fall cleaning checklist is just a guide. Tailor it to your specific needs and priorities. Break down the tasks into manageable chunks, involve your family, and make it a fun and productive activity. By following this checklist, your home will be clean, cozy, and ready to embrace the joys of the fall season!