Everyone knows the frenzy that can begin when spring dawns after a brutal winter. The windows open up, the fresh air comes in, and we get the sense to chuck everything before summer.
But waiting for spring cleaning can have some drawbacks, and our homes can get a little unkempt during the second half of the year. So why wait to clean just once a year?
A great real estate broker will tell you that a clean house sells much faster than a dirty one, as dirt and clutter are often associated with masking more significant issues, such as unwanted guests and unpleasant smells.
Fall cleaning can be a great way to prepare for the winter season and allow you to make space for an influx of upcoming holiday gifts and your new winter wardrobe!
Here are some great tips on where to focus your deep cleaning:
Old Clothes
With summer gone, it may be tempting to stuff your shorts and tank tops back in the closet for another year. Instead, take inventory of what you wore over the summer. Was there a pair of shorts you never even wore once? Or, on the flip side, a shirt you wore on every occasion that’s suffered extensive irreversible stains. Now is a great time to donate the good stuff, toss out the bad, and make space for your fall and winter wardrobe. While you’re going through the current seasonal clothing, take note of what’s still in good condition – it may be time to upgrade to a new winter coat or new pair of mittens.
Clean the Vents
As the temperature starts to cool, it will soon be time to switch the thermostat over to heating. Having worked hard all summer to keep you cool, your HVAC has probably accumulated a lot of dust and dirt. These can block your vents and make your system ineffective and a potential hazard. Now is a great time to switch out the filters and get your vents cleaned, either by a professional or yourself.
Clear the Garage
As winter approaches, so does the snowy weather. Getting your garage cleaned out now is a great idea to make space for your car during the harsher winter conditions. Use this time to move away from summer gardening tools or pool essentials while bringing shovels and snowblowers to the front for more accessible use. Summer activities such as canoes, surfboards and bikes can be hung on the wall to free up space on the ground.
Window Cleaning
This may be your last chance to clean the exterior of your windows in nice weather and to keep them clear as long as you can before the spring season. Cleaning solutions don’t often work very well in the colder temperatures, and it’s not fun to work with cold liquid solutions freezing on your hands while you stand in the snow.
Empty the Pantry
Now is a great time to go through your kitchen pantry and throw out expired foods or donate non-perishables that you have no plans to use. Use this time to wipe away any crumbs and stains to help cut back on the chances of pests looking for food in the upcoming colder season. This will make your pantry nice and organized for any upcoming holiday food items. More room for hot chocolate and marshmallows!
