7 essential cleaning tasks for autumn
What to clean at home in autumn (illustrative photo: Freepik)
Autumn not only delights with the yellow and orange hues of falling leaves but also disrupts moods and clothing with sudden weather changes. Additionally, over the summer, wardrobes may have accumulated items that are less needed in the fall. To prepare your home for the season, a thorough cleaning is essential.
Martha Stewart reports on what must be cleaned at the start of autumn.
Check air conditioner filters
To ensure clean air circulation in your home, it's recommended to clean or replace air conditioner or air purifier filters at least every three months, especially after frequent summer use.
However, it's best to check the filters monthly to see if they need replacing. If the filter is completely covered in dust and debris, it's time for a change.
Additionally, dirty filters can cause the appliance to overheat, which may eventually lead to costly repairs.
Clean windows
While windows can be cleaned regularly, it's essential to give them special attention in the fall to prevent the buildup of dust, pollen, and other grime on the glass. Clean windows allow more light in, making them more energy-efficient, particularly during the shorter days of autumn.
Sort items in closets
If your closet is short on space for seasonal clothing, fall is a great time to declutter your wardrobe. It’s the perfect opportunity to prepare for cooler weather by storing away summer clothes and making room for winter garments.
At the same time, you can free up closet space by getting rid of clothes that you haven't worn in a long time.
Clean gutters
If you live in a private house or have a summer home, don't neglect your gutters. It's advisable to clean them twice a year — spring and fall, paying extra attention to removing debris at the end of summer.
During these months, falling leaves and branches accumulate in the gutters, so cleaning them can prevent blockages and ensure proper drainage of rainwater and melting snow in the spring.
Sweep outdoor paths
In the summer, your yard may accumulate debris due to increased outdoor activity around the grill or barbecue. In addition to fallen leaves, there may be small pieces of charcoal and ash carried by the wind.
Regular sweeping of outdoor paths helps keep your yard tidy and prevents the buildup of unwanted debris.
A dacha or a house in the village also needs cleaning in the fall (illustrative photo: Freepik)
Tidy up the courtyard, driveway, and pathways before winter
Collect fallen leaves and, if necessary, wash the tiles to prepare these areas for the colder months.
Clean outdoor furniture
During the summer, outdoor furniture can accumulate debris, stains, and even mold due to frequent use and weather exposure.
To extend the life of your outdoor furniture, it should be cleaned in the fall. Depending on the type, you may also need to store it for the winter. Thorough cleaning before storing it for two seasons will save you time in the spring.
Clean the chimney
Cleaning the chimney before the heating season begins is crucial for safety. Proper maintenance of this part of the fireplace or stove before autumn reduces the risk of chimney fires. Additionally, a clean chimney ensures more efficient burning and better airflow.
For more tips, we previously covered 14 things professional organizers advise against keeping in your home.
