The Ultimate Autumn Deep Cleaning Checklist

Autumn signals not only a change in the weather, but a transition in how we live at home. Windows close, heavier linens come out, and more time is spent indoors. These shifts also bring new cleaning concerns—so autumn is the perfect season for a thorough home refresh. Deep cleaning now prepares your home for colder months and creates a healthier, cozier environment for all the time you’ll spend inside.

Why Autumn Is the Best Time to Deep Clean

After the dust and debris of summer and before holiday hosting kicks in, autumn presents a unique opportunity. Decluttering, dusting, and sanitizing spaces now can help prevent the build-up of allergens and grime. You’ll address problem areas you may have neglected in summer and set yourself up for a stress-free winter.

Entryway and Mudroom

• Sweep and mop entry floors. Use a stiff-bristle brush along the edges to lift dirt that collects near thresholds.cresleigh+1​

• Wipe doors (inside and out), light switches, and knobs with a disinfecting solution.mcsclean​

• Wash or replace welcome mats. Mud and wet weather are coming, so swap in mats designed for heavy use.

• Organize shoes, boots, and umbrellas. Donate or store lightweight summer shoes.

Living Room and Family Room

• Dust from the highest surfaces down—curtains, blinds, ceiling fans, window sills, bookshelves, and electronics.homemadesimple+1​

• Vacuum upholstered furniture thoroughly, including under or behind cushions.

• Spot-clean or launder throw pillows and blankets. Wash or have curtains dry cleaned.

• Steam clean carpets and area rugs. Schedule this project after any summer foot traffic has tapered off.cresleigh​

• Sanitize remotes, game controllers, and light switches—consider using alcohol wipes for electronics.mcsclean​

Kitchen

• Declutter and clean all surfaces—wipe down counters, cabinet doors, and handles.mcsclean+1​

• Clean the inside and outside of appliances: oven, microwave, fridge, and dishwasher. Pay special attention to nooks where crumbs and grime settle.cresleigh​

• Empty the pantry and check expiration dates. Restock only what you truly need for the coming months.

• Sweep and mop the floors, getting into corners and under movable furniture.homemadesimple​

• Wash kitchen blinds and windows; change out seasonal dish towels and sponges.

Bedrooms

• Strip all bedding and launder comforters, blankets, and pillows.bhg+2​

• Rotate the mattress to prevent sagging and vacuum it to remove dust mites.

• Dust all surfaces, including lampshades, headboards, and open shelving.

• Clean out and organize bedside table drawers. Discard old receipts, dead batteries, and other clutter.

• Store away summer linens and clothing in sealed bins or vacuum bags, and bring out warm bedding and seasonal wardrobes.bhg​

Bathrooms

• Empty cabinets and discard expired personal care products and medicines.homemadesimple+1​

• Scrub showers, bathtubs, toilets, and sinks. Pay close attention to grout and fixtures.

• Wash or replace shower curtains, bath mats, and towels.

• Clean out drains and descale showerheads.homemadesimple​

• Wipe down mirrors, windows, light fixtures, and high-touch surfaces.

• Sanitize and organize the medicine cabinet, restocking essentials for cold and flu season.

Dining Room

• Wipe down tables and chairs, focusing on sticky spots and crumbs in crevices.mcsclean​

• Launder table linens and placemats. Polish any silver or special occasion dinnerware.

• Dust everything, including light fixtures, display cabinets, and baseboards.

• Clean and vacuum any area rugs or chair cushions.

Laundry and Utility Rooms

• Clean and descale the washing machine and dryer. Run a cleaning cycle or use a mixture of vinegar and baking soda as needed.mcsclean​

• Mop floors and clean behind any appliances you can safely move.

• Organize detergents and linens. Discard empty containers and expired products.

Windows, Walls, and Doors

• Clean the inside and outside of every window. Use a squeegee for streak-free results.cresleigh​

• Dust or wash window screens and vacuum or wash blinds.

• Wipe down walls, doors, and door frames for fingerprints and grime.

• Clean all light switches and doorknobs with disinfectant.

Floors (All Rooms)

• Move small furniture to clean beneath and behind.

• Sweep, mop, or vacuum every surface—including corners and baseboards.

• For deeper carpet cleaning, treat stains or use a carpet cleaner for stubborn dirt.cresleigh+1​

Storage Spaces & Closets

• Sort and declutter. Donate, toss, or store any summer clothing, sandals, or gear.bhg+1​

• Wipe down shelf surfaces, vacuum or sweep closet floors, and clean bins.

• Refresh dehumidifiers or moisture absorbers to guard against autumn dampness.

Outdoor Areas

• Clean and store patio furniture, cushions, umbrellas, and garden equipment.mcsclean​

• Sweep driveways, walkways, and porches. Remove fallen leaves and debris.

• Wash exterior windows and doors.

• Clear out gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages during rainy autumn days.cresleigh​

• Organize the garage and store outdoor toys or summer gear for the season.

Seasonal Maintenance Extras

• Change furnace filters and schedule a heating system inspection.

• Test smoke detectors and replace batteries.

• Reverse ceiling fans to the clockwise position for fall and winter airflow.

• Stock up on firewood, candles, and emergency supplies in preparation for colder, darker weather.

Tips for Success

• Work in zones and set aside a weekend or a week for each area so you’re not overwhelmed.thefullnester​

• Make a checklist and physically cross off each task for a sense of accomplishment.

• Enlist family members or housemates and delegate specific rooms or chores.

• Use natural cleaners like vinegar or baking soda for most scrubbing tasks to keep your home’s air quality healthy.mcsclean​

Wrapping Up

A clean, organized home makes autumn’s shorter days and chilly evenings cozier and more welcoming. With this deep cleaning checklist, you’ll be ready for anything the season brings—holiday guests, rainy days, or simply more moments spent relaxing indoors. Tackle projects one at a time, savor the transitions, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from a home that feels truly fresh and prepared for fall.homemadesimple+2​