As the crisp autumn air rolls in and the days grow shorter, preparing our homes for the fall and winter months ahead is time. Winter brings cozy nights, festive holidays, and more time spent indoors, so organizing your space is essential for a comfortable, stress-free season.
Most people are familiar with spring cleaning, but winter cleaning is just as important. Since we spend more time inside during the colder months, having a clean, organized, and clutter-free home makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve put together these super easy cleaning tips to help you prepare your home for fall. Bonus: a hidden tip at the end to help you stay relaxed and in the right mind this winter!
1. Declutter Your Closet
Let’s kick things off with a classic: decluttering your closet. As the seasons change, it’s time to swap out those lightweight summer clothes for your warm winter gear. Start by removing all your spring and summer clothing and packing them neatly. Don’t forget to clean the closet itself—give the shelves a good wipe and sweep or mop the floor. This will leave plenty of space for your cozy sweaters and jackets.
2. Steam Clean Carpets and Furniture
Summer leaves behind more than memories—dust and dirt have likely built up on your carpets and furniture. This is the perfect time to clean them deep, especially if you have allergies. Vacuum your furniture thoroughly, and if you can, give your carpets and upholstery a steam clean. This will remove any lingering dirt and leave your home fresh and ready for the colder months.
3. Clean Your Chimney
If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace, now’s the time to ensure it’s clean and ready for winter. After months of non-use, chimneys can collect dirt, cobwebs, and even creosote, which can be a fire hazard. While you can clean it yourself, hiring a professional to ensure your chimney is in perfect condition for those cozy fireside nights is often best.
4. Wash Your Windows
It’s easy to overlook windows during the summer, but dirty ones can block sunlight during the dark winter months. Give them a good wash inside and out so you can let in as much light as possible. Clean windows can make your space feel brighter and more welcoming, especially when the days are short.
5. Seal Cracks and Gaps
We rely more on our heating systems to stay warm as the temperature drops. But if there are cracks or gaps in your windows, doors, or walls, cold air can sneak in, making your heating less effective. Take the time to inspect your home for any cracks and seal them up. This keeps your home warmer and can help save on energy bills.
6. Prepare Your Heavy Linens
As the weather cools, you’ll want to swap out your light summer bedding for cozy winter linens. Please take out your heavy blankets, duvets, and sheets and give them an excellent wash to refresh them before the season begins. While at it, sprinkle baking soda on your mattress and vacuum it off after a few minutes—this will help keep your bed smelling fresh all winter.
7. Inspect Your Light Fixtures
Winter means longer nights, so your lighting will be working overtime. Check all your light fixtures to make sure they’re in good condition. Replace any burnt-out bulbs, and consider using warm, cozy lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere for those long winter evenings.
Bonus Tip: Deep Clean Your Kitchen
With winter comes the holiday season, which means spending more time in the kitchen. Before the festivities begin, give your kitchen a thorough clean. Organize your cabinets, wipe down your appliances, and clear out any expired pantry items. A clean and organized kitchen will make holiday cooking and baking much more enjoyable!
By following these easy cleaning tips, you’ll have a spotless, organized home ready for fall and winter. Not only will your space feel fresh, but you’ll also be able to relax and enjoy the season knowing everything is in place. And as always, don’t forget to make time for yourself during these colder months—curl up with a good book, sip some hot cocoa, and enjoy the cozy vibes of a clean, well-prepared home.
What are your go-to cleaning tips for fall? Share them in the comments below!
