Most people are familiar with “Spring Cleaning.” However, most experts agree that fall cleaning is more important as it does more for your home. So where to begin? Today we are going to give you some fall housekeeping tips.

Fall Cleaning Tips

Better Homes and Gardens says, “While spring cleaning helps to prepare your home for brighter weather, clearing out the mustiness of being shut up all winter, fall cleaning helps to close your home down for cold weather.” In addition, it is an opportunity to eradicate the dust and allergens that have entered your home this summer. As such, homeowners tend to pay attention to different areas of the home during fall cleaning as they prepare for winter. So here are the areas begging for your attention.

Windows and Window Treatments-

Dust, dirt, and grime can cause your windows to look dingy from wind and continuous lawn work throughout the summer. As you clean the inside and outside of all your windows, check for any that aren’t closing well, that are broken, or that are not sealed well. This is the perfect time to fix or prevent problems. For your energy bill, you want your windows to keep out the cold outside air and keep in the heat.

While you are making your windows shine, take the time to wash your window treatments. Of course, follow the care instructions on your curtains. At a minimum, you can throw them in the dryer to remove dust. They will look refreshed.

Change Filters-

While you should change your air filters often on your HVAC system, don’t forget to do this in the fall and throughout the winter. Not only does a clean air filter help your system work efficiently but it helps remove allergens from the air, too. In addition, if you have an air purifier, then definitely clean or change the filter for your family’s health. Also, change your water filters whether it is in your refrigerator, under your sink, or in a whole house filtration system.

Ceiling Fans-

Another place that collects lots of dust during the summer is ceiling fans. Not only do they need to be cleaned but it might be the best time to change the rotation of the fan for winter. Allowing your fan to move in a clockwise direction causes an updraft and enables warm air to circulate. This can help your heating system and make your family and guests feel more comfortable on the coldest days.

Pantry Items-

Before all the holiday baking begins, fall is the perfect time to go through your spices and other staples in your pantry. Make sure to throw out all expired items and replace them with fresh ones. Don’t forget your canned food either. It might be a great time to wipe down the pantry shelves and reorganize your food items while going through your pantry staples.

Linens and Mattresses-

Although you launder and change your sheets throughout the year, don’t forget to wash and dry your pillows as well as flip your mattress. Before and after you flip and rotate your mattress, vacuum it with an appropriate attachment. This also removes dust and allergens. Now is also the time to prepare for your guests throughout the holiday season. Find and refresh your guest linens, and organize your linen closet.

Closet-

This is probably the most obvious tip for fall cleaning. As the temperatures change, it is the perfect time to clean out clothes that you can no longer wear because of size or style. Switch out sundresses and shorts for sweaters and coats. Put away sandals and flip-flops while setting out boots and booties for easy access. Of course, you can always donate clothes and shoes that you no longer want or can wear.

You can get started on these fall housekeeping tips this weekend. Most of the above tasks can be done in an hour or two while some can be done in minutes. Enlist as many helpers as you can to make less work for yourself. Next week we will explore what to do outdoors to prepare for the winter. Happy fall cleaning!