The Ultimate Fall Home Cleaning Checklist

1. Seal Drafts and Weatherproof Your Windows and Doors

Fall is the ideal time to catch drafts before the winter cold sets in. When cold air seeps in through gaps around windows and doors, your heating system works harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Sealing air leaks around your home and adding insulation can deliver up to 10% savings on your yearly energy bills.

Consider these simple DIY tasks:

• Check window and door seals: Run your hand along the edges of windows and doors to feel for drafts, paying special attention to older frames and corners where gaps tend to develop.
• Apply weatherstripping: Add adhesive-backed weatherstripping to door frames and window sashes where you notice air coming through. This flexible material compresses to create an airtight seal.
• Caulk gaps and cracks: Use exterior-grade caulk to seal any visible gaps around window frames and door trim on the outside of your home. Focus on areas where two different materials meet.

2. Clean Your Gutters to Prevent Ice Dams

Clearing leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts is an essential piece of your fall roof-prep routine. Heat loss from your house can cause ice dams, which may prevent water from draining off the roof. Moisture from ice dams can also trigger mold and mildew, which can cause respiratory issues.

Clear out all leaves, twigs and buildup from your gutters using a scoop or garden trowel. Make sure downspouts direct water well away from your foundation to prevent pooling near the base of your home. If you find sagging sections or loose brackets, repair them now before winter weather makes the problem worse.

3. Declutter Room by Room Before You Deep Clean

Decluttering before jumping into fall cleaning is a smart strategy, since it makes the rest of your tasks easier and helps you save time because there’s less to clean up.

Whether it’s your attic or your closet, try the three-box method — one box for keep, one for donate and one for toss. It helps you quickly sort through your things, avoid indecision and see real progress right away. Even just clearing a counter or organizing a closet can make the bigger cleaning tasks feel a lot easier.

4. Get Your Fireplace and Chimney Ready

Fall is the time to inspect your fireplace and chimney before the season’s first fire. Creosote, a highly combustible by-product of burning wood, can build up inside your chimney over time.

The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends you have your chimney inspected annually by a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep to prevent chimney fires. Look for a certified professional who can assess creosote buildup and ensure your chimney is safe. As CSIA notes, clean chimneys don’t catch fire.

5. Refresh Your Kitchen for Cozy Season Cooking

The kitchen is about to become the hub of your home, bustling with activity from simmering soups to holiday baking. Prepping it now means you’ll have a clean, organized and inspiring space to create all your seasonal favorites.

Make kitchen cleaning more manageable with these strategies:

• Clean out the fridge and pantry: Toss expired items and wipe down shelves to make room for fresh ingredients and holiday staples.
• Wipe down the oven: Remove built-up grease and grime so it’s ready for all the baking and roasting ahead.
• Organize cooking tools: Pull out your slow cooker, Dutch oven and baking sheets, and make sure everything is clean and accessible.

6. Add Cozy Touches to Welcome Fall Guests

Once the cleaning is done, it’s time to freshen up your home’s feel for the season. Small decor swaps can completely change the vibe in your home. Invest in beautiful linens or switch from paper to cloth napkins to quickly elevate a party or everyday gathering.

Bring out chunky knit blankets, faux-fur or velvet pillow covers and a plusher area rug to add warmth and texture to your living spaces. Don’t forget to layer the lighting with candles, table lamps and string lights to create a softer, more inviting glow throughout your home.