The Ultimate Fall Cleaning Checklist

Fall cleaning is a time for thorough cleaning and preparation for the winter. It is crucial that you have an in-depth cleaning at this time of the year in order to eliminate any lingering dust and pollen from summer, and prepare your home for long winter naps and more time indoors. Here is the ultimate fall cleaning checklist, which includes both the obvious and the overlooked:

Start at the top – General

Clean and organize the attic while checking for any roof leaks
Vacuum ceiling fans
Dust chandeliers and ceiling light fixtures
Clean draperies, blinds, and window coverings as instructed by the manufacturer
Clean behind and under large appliances – dryer, washer, fridge, etc
Clean behind and under furniture and other hard-to-reach places
Dust all electronic devices, including the computer, printer, TV, home theatre, etc
Replace all air filters to conserve energy
Remove upholstery cushions to vacuum underneath
Sweep out the fireplace, vacuum it, and schedule an inspection by a professional.

Bedroom

Dust furniture, light fixtures, and shelves
Launder pillows, bedding, mattress pads
Flip the mattress
De-clutter closets and clean under the beds and baseboards
Rearrange seasonal clothing in the closet
Steam clean rugs and carpets
Change the batteries in smoke detectors

Kitchen

Defrost and clear out the freezer
Clean and sanitize drains and sinks
Clean the cabinets and shelves
Clean inside, behind, and under appliances, such as the oven and fridge
Sweep and wash floors

Bathrooms

Clean and sanitize drains, sinks, tubs, showers and toilets
Clean and polish fixtures
Clean glass and mirrors
Clean tile surfaces
Clean bathmats
Restock hand towels and toilet paper
Inspect grout
Dispose of expired medications
Wash floors

Utility room/basement/laundry room

Drain and refill hot water heater
Clean inside and behind the washer and the dryer
Dust light fixtures
Clean and clear drain and laundry sink
Change air conditioner filter
Dispose of old cleaning chemicals and unused items
Dust for cobwebs on the baseboard and ceiling
Sweep and clean the floor

Garage

Sweep and wash the floor
Tune up the snow blower
Clean and repair snow shovels
Get enough ice melt

Outdoors

Drain the hoses and store them
Clean out gutters and downspouts
Clean out and mulch the garden
Clean and cover outdoor furniture
Rake leaves and remove yard debris
Wash window exteriors
Clean and cover the barbecue

Finally, remember to update your family emergency kit with the necessary medications and other items, and get a disposal bin rental to get rid of household trash.