After the dog days of a hot summer, nothing sounds cozier than settling into fall. From comforting decor, to tasty treats, to spooky celebrations, there’s something for everyone to look forward to this time of year.
But, in order to enjoy the season in all its fall glory, there are a few things to take care of around the house.
Keep reading for an autumn home checklist that covers everything from maintenance to decorations.
The Ultimate Fall Home Maintenance Checklist: 9 Tasks to Complete Before the End of Summer
Check Your Gutter, Roof, Driveway, and Equipment
Before indulging in fall’s many delights, your home is likely in need of some TLC. Here’s what to check, test, and repair:
Gutters: If leaves haven’t yet started to fall, they will soon. To make sure your gutters can do their job, clear them out a few times throughout the season. The sooner you start, the less this chore will pile up!
Rooves: If your roof suffered any damage during Summer storms, you won’t want to find out during the first snowstorm of the year. Scan for signs of damage and schedule a repair ASAP.
Driveways: When temperatures plummet, weak driveways can crack quite easily. Here’s how to spot weak points.
Safety Devices: Everyone’s about to spend a lot more time inside, so double-check that your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms work.
Snow equipment: Do you rely on a snowblower during winter? Test it now to ensure it’ll be ready for the first storm.
Prep Your Lawn
In order to set your lawn up for success in the Spring, it’s a good idea to fertilize now. This article has some good insight on how to do it well.
Of course, you should also stay on top of raking fallen leaves throughout the season. The last thing you want is Winter snows trapping them on your lawn!
Repair Gaps and Weatherstrip
As soon as the weather gets chilly, critters will start looking for ways to enter your home. Walk around the exterior of your house to look for gaps, and fill or cover them while it’s still warm outside.
Want to stay extra warm yourself? If you haven’t already, consider weatherstripping your doors and windows to trap as much heat as possible.
Refresh Outdoor Cushions
After spending long Summer afternoons lounging on the patio, the time has come to clean your cushions. Sunscreen, sweat, and perhaps a wine stain or two are likely lingering! Plus, you might still be able to use your patio for the first few weeks of Fall.
This blog post explains a step-by-step method for cleaning outdoor cushions for a fresh feeling all season long.
Wash Your Cozy Throw Blankets
Fall movie nights aren’t the same without thick and cozy blankets—especially if you have to hide your eyes during horror movies! Before Fall activities are in full swing, now is a great time to give those blankets a good wash.
Are you a weighted blanket family? Yes, those need to be washed too! Here’s how to do so without damaging it.
Switch to Warmer Bedding
No more tossing and turning to cool off on hot nights. The time has come to dig out that warmer bedding! Here are some general tips on refreshing your winter sets:
If you aren’t sure if it’s time to wash a comforter or duvet, this blog can help.
If you have linen sheets—which retain body heat well during colder nights—this guide explains how to clean them in the washing machine.
If you have a different pillow for winter, here’s how to wash pillows safely.
Indulge in Fall Scents
Can’t get enough of your favorite fall scents? Do yourself a favor and spread them across your home! Beyond your basic scented candles, consider these delightful DIY tactics:
Make an aromatic simmer pot by heating apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves all day long.
Hang a hand-crafted garland across your mantle. You can use dried orange slices, bay leaves, and cinnamon sticks.
Cook up some cinnamon apple syrup for coffee, ice cream, cocktails, and more!
Create your own potpourri by putting dried fruit, nuts, and spices in your favorite Fall-themed vase or bowl.
Place a few drops of your favorite autumn-smelling essential oil in your humidifier.
Break Out the Autumnal Decor
What’s fall without pumpkins, black cats, and skeletons? But don’t worry, you don’t have to resort to plastic pumpkins from the Halloween store to indulge in fall fun.
For a classy take on autumn decor, consider adding:
Darker table linens with rustic patterns
Mood lighting to each room with candles and warmer bulbs
Fall-toned throw pillows in the living room
Gourds, firewood, antique baskets, and other cozy accessories
Antique lanterns filled with orange florals
Prefer the Spirit Halloween take on fall decor? Go for it – we won’t judge!
Unpack Your Winter Wardrobe
Finally, the change of seasons wouldn’t be complete without bundling up in your favorite fall garments. To get into the sweater weather mood, set aside some time to dig out and sort your cold-weather clothing.
If any storage smells linger, it’s best to do the laundry now. Your future self will thank you!
Pro-Tip: sweaters require specific care. Read this blog to keep yours safe when washing at home.
Need some help tackling your fall home checklist? We’ll leave the decor, scents, and home maintenance to you, but we can certainly help with the cushions, clothes, and bedding.
To take advantage of our large and freshly cleaned machines, search ‘laundry near me’ and head to your closest WaveMAX Laundry Thornton location. To schedule a wash-and-fold pick-up or dry-cleaning service, head to www.denverwashandfold.com.
