Fall is a beautiful season, marked by changing leaves and cooler temperatures. As homeowners, it’s time to prepare our homes to spend more time indoors as winter approaches. And while many of us think about dusting and decluttering, other areas of our homes also require our attention during this time of year. Here are a few fall house cleaning tasks to prepare your home for winter.
House Cleaning Tasks for Fall
1. Clean the Gutters During Fall House Cleaning
In fall, leaves fall from trees and may clog the gutters. Overflowing gutters allow water to seep beneath roofing materials, behind the siding, and into the basement. Water damage leads to mold growth, structural issues, and costly repairs. Cleaning the gutters is a simple DIY project for a pleasant fall day. Use a ladder to access the gutters and remove leaves, twigs, and other debris.
2. Inspect and Sweep the Chimney
As the temperatures drop, many homeowners use their fireplaces for warmth. Before lighting the first fire, have a professional inspect and clean the chimney. Creosote build-up from last season, leaves, and animal nests in the flue can ignite, leading to a house fire. A chimney sweep will clean and inspect your chimney to verify it’s safe for use.
3. Update the Bedding
Fall and winter bring cooler temperatures. To keep your family warm and comfortable on cold nights, change the bedding. Replace lightweight summer blankets with cozy winter comforters. Add flannel sheets and throw blankets to prepare the sleeping areas for chilly weather.
4. Fall House Cleaning: Deep Clean the Carpets
During summer, carpets accumulate dust, pollen, and other allergens. Before spending more time indoors, deep clean the rugs and carpets to improve indoor air quality and create a clean living space. You can either rent a carpet cleaning machine or hire a professional company to do the job.
5. Remove Dust and Dirt From Your Windows
As the temperature drops, we close the windows and rely on our heating systems to keep us warm. Before winter, clean the window glass. Dirt and debris accumulate around windows and on the glass, blocking sunlight from your home. Use a solution of water and vinegar to remove dust to brighten your living spaces.
As a homeowner, you’re responsible for caring for your property year-round. But fall is a particularly important season to begin prepping for cooler weather. These fall house cleaning tips help improve air quality, reduce fire hazards, and make your homes more comfortable and energy-efficient.
HomeSpec offers inspection services to customers in North Mississippi and Southwest Tennessee. Contact us to schedule an appointment.