The Best Autumn Cleaning Tips for a Cosy and Fresh Home
Autumn is surely the perfect season to get all cosy indoors, but before you settle in with your warm blankets and pumpkin spice lattes, it’s essential to give your home a thorough autumn clean. In this guide, I’ll share the best autumn cleaning tips to help you prepare your living space for the season of crisp air, warm colours, and cosy comfort. Move over Spring cleaning, there’s a new guy in town!
- Declutter with Purpose
A good Autumn cleaning starts with decluttering your home. Begin by going through each room and assessing what items you no longer need. Donate or sell items that are in good condition, and discard any broken or unusable items. A clutter-free environment not only makes cleaning easier but also contributes to a more peaceful atmosphere in your home.
- Deep Clean Carpets and Upholstery
With autumn’s arrival, your carpets and upholstery may have endured the summer foot traffic. Give them a refresh by deep cleaning. Consider hiring a professional carpet cleaner or renting a carpet cleaning machine. Vacuum thoroughly before cleaning to remove dirt and debris, and focus on high-traffic areas.
- Window Cleaning for a Crisp View
The changing leaves outside deserve a clean window to peer through. Use a good quality window cleaner (or make your own using 50:50 white vinegar and water) to give your windows a streak-free shine. Don’t forget to clean window sills, frames, and curtains or blinds. Clean windows let in more natural light, making your home feel brighter, especially as the nights start drawing in. This is one of the best autumn cleaning tips!
- Tackle the Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and autumn is a perfect time to give it some extra love. Empty and clean out your fridge and pantry, discarding expired items. Wipe down all surfaces, including countertops, appliances, and cabinets – even on the tops of them. Don’t forget to clean the oven and microwave for those upcoming holiday feasts. Check your pantry stocks and replenish things as necessary.
- Refresh the Bedroom
In the bedroom, swap out your lightweight summer bedding for cosier, heavier options. Wash all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and comforters, before making the switch. Flip or rotate your mattress for even wear. Dust and clean under the bed and in all the nooks and crannies.
Now is a great time to clean your mattress – have you seen the viral pan lid cleaning hack? Simply dissolve your favourite cleaning solution (you could use a washing tablet, dishwasher tablet or dishwashing soap) in some warm water. Wrap a microfibre cloth around your pan lid and use this to clean your mattress! It’s quick and easy to do.
- Clean and Inspect Heating Systems
Before you start relying on your heating systems, be it radiators, central heating, or fireplaces, it’s crucial to ensure they are clean and in good working condition. Dust and vacuum radiators or vents, replace furnace filters, and consider scheduling a professional inspection if needed. A well-maintained heating system will keep your home warm and safe throughout the colder months.
- Dust and Polish
Autumn cleaning isn’t complete without a thorough dusting and polishing session. Dust all surfaces, including shelves, mantels, and light fixtures using a feather duster or microfibre cloth. Polish wooden furniture to restore their shine. Dusting not only improves indoor air quality but also enhances the overall appearance of your home.
- Focus on Floors
Autumn can bring mud and fallen leaves indoors. To keep your floors looking their best, sweep or vacuum regularly to prevent scratches from debris. For hard floors, use a suitable cleaner to remove dirt and give them a shine. Consider placing mats at entrances to capture dirt before it spreads – this doesn’t always work though! I’m forever cleaning my kitchen floor as our cat trails in alllllll the mud.
- Prep Your Garden and Outdoor Spaces
As you prepare your home for autumn, don’t forget about your garden and outdoor spaces. Clear fallen leaves (but leave some on your flower beds as cover for insects and wildlife), trim back overgrown plants (but again, leave some seed heads for birds and to add winter interest), and cover outdoor furniture to protect it from the elements. This will not only keep your outdoor areas looking neat as the year moves on.
- Inspect and Clean Gutters
Autumn is synonymous with falling leaves, and those leaves tend to find their way into your gutters. Ensure your gutters are clear to prevent blockages that can lead to water damage. Consider installing gutter guards to minimize the need for regular cleaning. This might be a job for a professional if you’re not confident on ladders.
- Clean and Store Summer Gear
As you transition into autumn, it’s time to clean and store your summer gear. This includes garden tools, outdoor toys, and summer clothing. Clean and properly store these items to prevent deterioration over the winter months.
- Prepare for Cosy Nights
With the cleaning tasks completed, it’s time to prepare your home for cosy autumn evenings. Add warm and inviting touches like soft throw blankets, scented candles, and seasonal décor. Consider rearranging furniture to create a more inviting seating arrangement around the fireplace or in front of the TV. Blankets are easy to store in strategically placed baskets so they are easily accessible but still look tidy.
Autumn cleaning is not just about tidying up; it’s about preparing your home for a season of warmth, comfort, and joy. By following these best autumn cleaning tips, you can ensure that your living space is clean, organized, and ready to embrace the beauty of this magical season. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your favourite sweater, and get started on your autumn cleaning journey.
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Spring Cleaning Checklist: Room-by-Room Guide to a Fresh Home
