Say Goodbye to Summer Clutter | Your Ultimate Fall Cleaning Checklist

As the vibrant colors of summer begin to fade into the warm hues of autumn, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your home for the colder months ahead. Fall is not just about sipping pumpkin spice lattes and cozying up in your favorite sweater—it’s also the perfect season to give your home a thorough cleaning and make it a cozy haven for the coming winter. Whether you’re a seasoned cleaner or just looking for guidance, this comprehensive fall cleaning checklist will help you transform your home into a warm and welcoming space.

Let’s dive into the detailed and self proclaimed expert-approved steps to make your fall cleaning as efficient and enjoyable as possible!

Declutter and Organize

Before you get into the nitty-gritty of fall cleaning, the first step is to declutter and organize. This helps you clear out the summer’s chaos and make room for the cozy vibes of fall.

Closet Overhaul: Start with your closets. Pack away summer clothes like light dresses, shorts, and flip-flops, and bring out your fall wardrobe. As you do this, take stock of what you wore this summer. If an item hasn’t seen the light of day, it might be time to donate or sell it. Organize your closet by categories, such as sweaters, scarves, and boots, making it easier to find what you need on those chilly mornings.

Pantry Purge: Your pantry likely has remnants of summer snacks and picnic supplies. Go through your pantry, checking expiration dates and discarding anything past its prime. Make room for fall staples like canned pumpkin, hearty soups, and baking ingredients. Organize your pantry shelves with labeled containers for easy access when you’re ready to bake those fall treats.

General Declutter: Walk through each room with a critical eye, removing items that don’t serve a purpose or bring joy. This could be anything from old magazines and books to toys and decor. Create a system of donation boxes, trash bags, and storage containers to help sort items as you go. This step not only makes your home more organized but also creates a calming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a long day.

Deep Clean the Kitchen

With the holiday season just around the corner, your kitchen will soon be the hub of activity. Preparing it now will ensure you’re ready to tackle all those festive feasts and gatherings.

Oven Love: Your oven is about to be put to the test with all the holiday baking and roasting, so it deserves a deep fall cleaning. Create a paste with baking soda and water, spread it inside the oven, and let it sit overnight. The next day, wipe away the grime and rinse with vinegar for a sparkling clean oven. This method is chemical-free and highly effective.

Wipe Down Cabinets: Kitchen cabinets often accumulate grease and dust over time. Mix warm water with mild dish soap, and use a microfiber cloth to wipe down cabinet doors, handles, and drawer fronts. Pay special attention to areas around the stove, where grease is more likely to build up.

Clean Appliances: Don’t overlook your smaller appliances. Clean out the microwave by heating a bowl of water with lemon slices for five minutes, then wipe it down with a soft cloth. Empty and scrub your refrigerator and freezer, and defrost if necessary. Run an empty load in your dishwasher with a cup of vinegar to eliminate odors and lime scale buildup.

Freshen Up the Living Room

The living room is where you’ll likely spend a lot of cozy evenings, so it’s essential to make it a comfortable and inviting space.

Carpet Care: After a summer of heavy foot traffic, your carpets and rugs could use a deep fall cleaning. You can rent a carpet cleaner or hire a professional service to remove dirt and stains. For area rugs, take them outside for a good shake, then vacuum both sides to remove any embedded dust and dirt.

Cushion Care: Your couch cushions and throw pillows need some attention, too. Remove and wash the cushion covers if possible. For non-removable cushions, vacuum the surfaces and crevices to get rid of dust and crumbs. To refresh throw pillows, pop them in the dryer on a low heat setting with a couple of tennis balls; this will help fluff them up and restore their shape.

Window Wash: Clean windows are essential for letting in the maximum amount of natural light during the shorter fall days. Use a window cleaner and a squeegee to clean the glass, both inside and out. Don’t forget to wipe down the windowsills and dust the blinds. If your curtains have been up all summer, now is a great time to wash or dry clean them.

Bedroom Bliss

Your bedroom should be a cozy retreat, especially as the weather turns colder. Here’s how to make it fall-ready.

Bedding Switch: Swap out your lightweight summer bedding for something warmer and cozier. Flannel sheets, a heavier comforter, and a few extra throws can make your bed a warm haven on chilly nights. Consider adding an extra layer, like a quilt or blanket, at the foot of the bed for added warmth.

Closet Rotation: As you did in your main closet, take some time to switch out your bedroom wardrobe. Store away summer clothes and bring out your fall essentials. Adding cedar blocks or lavender sachets to your closet can help keep your clothes smelling fresh and deter moths.

Mattress Maintenance: Rotate or flip your mattress to ensure even wear and prolong its life. This is also the perfect time to vacuum your mattress, removing dust mites and allergens. Consider investing in a mattress protector to add an extra layer of cleanliness and protection.

Bathroom Refresh

As we approach cold and flu season, your bathroom should be a clean and well-stocked sanctuary.

Shower Power: The shower and bathtub can accumulate soap scum and mildew over time. Use a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub the tiles, then rinse with vinegar to remove stains and disinfect. If your shower curtain liner is looking grimy, replace it with a new one, or if it’s washable, toss it in the washing machine.

Medicine Cabinet: Go through your medicine cabinet and get rid of any expired medications, old toothbrushes, and empty containers. This is also a good time to stock up on fall and winter essentials like hand sanitizer, tissues, and over-the-counter cold remedies. Organize items by category, making it easier to find what you need when you’re not feeling your best.

Towel Treat: Fall is a great time to upgrade your bathroom linens. Replace thin, worn-out summer towels with thicker, more absorbent ones. Consider adding a few luxurious touches, like a plush bath mat or a robe, to make your bathroom feel like a spa.

Outdoor Prep

Your outdoor spaces need some attention too, especially as the leaves start to fall and the weather cools down.

Leaf It Be: Raking leaves might seem like a chore, but it’s essential for keeping your lawn healthy. Pile the leaves into your compost bin or use them as mulch for your garden beds. Not only does this prevent the leaves from smothering your grass, but it also enriches your soil for next year.

Gutter Check: Clogged gutters can cause water damage to your home’s foundation, so it’s important to clear them out before the rainy season starts. Use a sturdy ladder and gloves to remove leaves, twigs, and debris. While you’re up there, inspect your roof for any loose or missing shingles that could lead to leaks.

Patio Protection: Bring in outdoor furniture to protect it from the elements, or cover it with waterproof covers. If you have a grill, give it a thorough fall cleaning and store it in a dry place to prevent rust. Drain and store garden hoses to avoid freezing, and cover or bring in any delicate plants.

Cozy Up with Decor

Now for the fun part—adding those little touches that make fall such a special season.

Warm Colors: Fall is the perfect time to switch out your decor with warm, earthy tones like burnt orange, deep reds, and rich browns. Swap out summer-themed throw pillows, blankets, and table runners for ones that evoke the coziness of autumn. Add some texture with materials like wool, velvet, and faux fur.

Scent Sensation: Bring the scents of fall into your home with candles, essential oils, or potpourri. Look for fragrances like cinnamon, apple, vanilla, and pumpkin spice to fill your home with warmth. You can also simmer a pot of water with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange peels on the stove to create a natural, delicious aroma.

Nature’s Bounty: Incorporate natural elements like pumpkins, gourds, and pinecones into your decor. A simple centerpiece made of dried leaves, acorns, and small pumpkins can instantly elevate your dining table. A wreath made from fall foliage or a garland of dried corn husks over the mantle adds a festive touch to your living spaces.

Lighting Love: As the days grow shorter, lighting becomes even more important. Add some soft, ambient lighting with table lamps, string lights, or even candles to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider swapping out bright white bulbs for warmer, soft white options to enhance the cozy feel.

Safety First

With the colder months approaching, it’s important to make sure your home is safe and ready for the season.

Smoke Detector Check: Test all your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries if necessary. The increased use of heaters and fireplaces during the fall and winter makes this a crucial safety step. Consider installing detectors in every bedroom and on every floor of your home.

Fireplace Prep: If you have a fireplace, make sure it’s in good working order before you start using it. Have a professional chimney sweep clean out any soot and debris, and inspect the chimney for cracks or damage. If you use a wood-burning fireplace, stock up on dry, seasoned wood, and store it in a dry place.

Heating System Check: Have your heating system serviced to ensure it’s running efficiently. Replace the filters and consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat to save energy. This is also a good time to check for drafts around windows and doors and seal them with weatherstripping or caulking.

Plan for the Holidays

While you’re getting your home ready for fall, it’s never too early to start thinking about the upcoming holiday season.

Stock the Pantry: Start stocking up on non-perishable items you’ll need for holiday cooking and baking. Canned goods, baking supplies, and spices can be bought in advance, saving you time and stress later on. Organize these items in your pantry so they’re easy to access when you’re ready to start your holiday cooking.

Guest Room Ready: If you’re expecting guests during the holidays, prepare your guest room now. Fresh linens, a few toiletries, and perhaps a basket of snacks or a couple of books will make your guests feel welcome. Add some fall touches like a cozy throw blanket or a vase of dried flowers to make the room feel inviting.

Decor Inventory: Take stock of your holiday decor and see if there’s anything that needs replacing or updating. This is also a great time to plan out your holiday decorating scheme and make a list of any new items you might need. By planning ahead, you can avoid the last-minute rush and enjoy a more relaxed holiday season.

Download My Free Fall Cleaning Checklist!

And there you have it—a detailed and comprehensive Fall Cleaning Checklist to help you get your home ready for the season. With these expert tips, you’ll not only have a clean and organized home but also a warm and welcoming space that’s perfect for cozying up during the colder months.

Remember, fall cleaning doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Break it down into manageable steps, enlist the help of family members, and take your time to enjoy the process. Before you know it, your home will be a sanctuary of warmth and comfort, ready to welcome the beauty of autumn.

So, put on your favorite fall playlist, brew a pot of spiced tea, and let’s get started on making your home the coziest place to be this season. Happy fall cleaning!