subject: Your Fall Cleaning Checklist [print this page] Fall has settled in and the busy holiday season is just around the corner. You probably are like most homeowners who have a list of end of season chores and honey-do items saved just for this time of year. Start checking your list and crossing items off before Old Man Winter settles in for the season.
Fall cleaning can be broken down into two categories-indoor and outdoor chores. Let's take a look at some items likely found on your to-do list. If you haven't started in on this list, now is the perfect time.
Indoor Chores
Clean out your closets: Pack up and store the summer and fall wardrobe and make room for winter wear, including sweaters, jackets and pants.
Bring out the warm blankets: You likely store heavy quilts and blankets during the summer months in lieu of light and breezy bedding. Pull out the winter blankets and give them a good fall cleaning so they are fresh and ready for use.
Give your kitchen a top to bottom cleaning: The holidays are the busiest time of the year for most kitchens. Make sure yours is ready to impress by giving it a top to bottom fall cleaning, including organizing your pantry, cleaning out your refrigerator and washing all holiday dinnerware.
Spot check your house: You likely clean each room on a regular basis during the year. Fall cleaning is just a time for a more extensive scrubbing. Dust blinds, fans, and trim to remove any build up. Also look for areas where you can organize the space or make it tidier by removing clutter.
Outdoor Chores
Clean and store patio furniture: The lazy days of summer have come and gone. Time spent relaxing on your patio will have to wait until next year. Take care of your patio furniture so that it stays in good condition for years to come. By giving it a good fall cleaning and storing it out of the elements, you are ensuring that you can yet again put your feet up when warmer weather returns.
Insulate your windows: Your home's windows can either make or break your wallet during the winter months. Poorly insulated or caulked windows can lead to cold air entering your home and the warm air escaping. Check the caulk around your windows to make sure there aren't any cracks. For older homes, add extra insulation for the winter months.
Clean out your gutters: Fall weather brings on a rise of clogged gutters as the leaves fall from the trees and land in your gutters. Give your gutters a good fall cleaning before winter in order to protect them during inclement weather.
