As the leaves begin to change into beautiful shades of red, orange, and gold, and the air takes on that familiar autumn chill, there’s no denying that fall has arrived! It’s a season of fresh beginnings, cozy evenings, and spending more time enjoying the comforts of home. This fall cleaning checklist will help you get your home clean, cozy, and ready for the season.

Preparing your home for a new season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A little planning and attention to detail can make a big difference in how your home looks, feels, and functions throughout the colder months.

Whether you’re getting ready for the upcoming holidays, expecting family and friends, or simply looking forward to relaxing at home, now is the perfect time for a seasonal refresh. I’ve put together this fall cleaning checklist to help you tackle everything one step at a time, so you can spend less time worrying about household chores and more time enjoying everything autumn has to offer!

Fall Cleaning Checklist: Inside Your Home

1. Declutter and organize. Before you deep clean, go through closets, cabinets and drawers. Donate gently used clothes and household items, and organize what’s left so your space feels lighter and more functional.
2. Clean the windows. Wash windows inside and out so you can enjoy the fall colors and natural light.
3. Dust and vacuum. Dust corners, baseboards and ceiling fans, then vacuum carpets, rugs and upholstery to cut down on dust and allergens.
4. Deep clean the kitchen. Clean the oven, microwave and refrigerator inside and out. Wipe down cabinets and counters, and disinfect handles and knobs.
5. Wash and rotate bedding. Launder winter blankets and quilts, rotate your mattress, and add flannel sheets or a thicker duvet for extra warmth.
6. Swap your wardrobe. Make sure summer clothes are clean and fully dry before storing them in airtight bins or vacuum-sealed bags to prevent mildew.

Get Cozy for the Season

7. Fall-ify your decor. Swap summer pillows for warm, autumn-inspired pieces. Candles, pumpkins and soft throws make your home feel welcoming.
8. Prepare for guests. Freshen the guest room, fluff the pillows, and set out extra blankets. A small basket of seasonal snacks is a sweet touch.
9. Get the fireplace ready. Remove ash buildup and have your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional before your first fire.
10. Seal drafts. Add weatherstripping or draft stoppers around windows and doors to keep warm air in and lower your energy bills.
11. Create a cozy corner. Set up a spot with soft throws, plush cushions and a stack of favorite books, and stock up on tea, coffee and hot cocoa.

Fall Cleaning Checklist: Outside and Entryway

12. Tidy the yard. Rake leaves, trim bushes, prep the garden for winter, and clean and store outdoor furniture.
13. Prep the mudroom or entryway. Add a sturdy doormat, hooks for coats and umbrellas, and baskets for shoes to keep fall mud from spreading through the house.

Don’t Skip These Fall Safety Checks

14. Test your detectors. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries. The National Fire Protection Association has helpful home fire safety tips.
15. Make a cleaning schedule. Break your fall cleaning checklist into small chunks and assign each task to a weekend so nothing gets missed and you don’t feel overwhelmed.

Enjoy Your Fresh, Cozy Home

Once you’ve worked through this list, your home will be sparkling clean and ready for the season. Light a cinnamon candle, set out a vase of fall leaves, and enjoy every cozy moment.

Want to make your cleaning routine more natural this fall? Try my homemade non-toxic dishwasher detergent.

Happy Fall, Y’all!
Diana