Wait, did that read "Fall cleaning"? Absolutely! Fall cleaning your home is just as vital for health and comfort as the traditional spring cleaning. In fact, it makes good sense to take care of some of the cleaning tasks in the fall before homes are closed up tight for the winter, and it’s especially easier now that older kids are back in school (but if they're at home doing virtual learning, give them some chores too!). Getting some of these home cleaning jobs out of the way now can also make for less stress when preparing your home for holiday gatherings.
In addition to deep cleaning your entire home (Download our Fall Cleaning Checklist here), below are tasks you'll want to make sure you don't miss!
OUR FALL CLEANING CHECKLIST:
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AC/Heating System: Clean vents and replace air filters as needed. Call your heating company and schedule a yearly maintenance appointment before the winter season rush. If you have an electric or gas fireplace, consider getting this maintained now also.
Windows and Window Treatments: Wash windows, screens, and storm panes. Clean drapes and curtains according to manufacturer's recommendations, or simply vacuum with an upholstery attachment. Use Febreze to freshen drapes. Dust or wipe blinds using a damp microfiber cloth. Wipe down woodwork around windows.
Carpeting: Clean carpeting or have carpeting professionally cleaned. Vacuum the fronts and backs of area rugs to remove dust and dirt.
Appliances: Clean oven using self-cleaning directions or spray with oven cleaner, leave overnight, and wipe clean the next day. Open the windows on a mild weather day to avoid fumes or odors.
Cleaning and defrosting the refrigerator and freezer are big jobs that need to be done a couple times a year, so include in both fall and spring cleaning lists. Don't forget to dust under appliances and remove and clean the drip pan.
Dishwashers also need to be cleaned twice a year. Pour a cup of vinegar on the bottom of the dishwasher and run an empty load to clean and eliminate odors.
Walls and woodwork: Wipe down walls from top-to-bottom and from left-to-right. Make your own all-purpose natural cleaner in a spray bottle by mixing 2 tablespoons of baking soda to 16 ounces of warm water.
Attic/Storage Area: Vacuum and dust attic to get it ready for storing off-season storage.
Smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detectors: Test to make sure they are working, and change the batteries if needed.
Vehicles: After a summer season of being on the go, it's time to clear out all the trash / junk in your cars and reorganize the glove box. Better yet, go ahead and get the vehicles detailed for a fresh start.
