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Most of us think of spring cleaning, but fall cleaning is just as important when it comes to resetting your space. F. Scott Fitzgerald said it best, “Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.” Your space deserves a fresh start this time of year, too.
As a self-proclaimed “clean queen,” I don’t view fall cleaning as a chore-centric. Instead, I consider it prep for the holidays and protecting my spring and summer gear so it’s ready next year. Once the holidays arrive, I don't want to be digging through clutter or worrying about my Blackstone rusting. Here are some of my top tips for making the most of fall cleaning.
Why Does Fall Cleaning Matter?
As the weather cools down and the holidays hit, we’re more likely to spend time at home. If you tackle your outdoor furniture, coat closets, and garage now, it’ll make your living space calmer and more welcoming. It gives me more time to focus on holiday décor, simmer pots, and soup season.
It’ll also help prevent damage to items you won’t use until the spring. And, you’ll be clearing room for extra holiday decorations you’re going to splurge on, presents, and other winter supplies (think snowblowers and sleds) that will take over.
Quick Fall Cleaning Checklist
Wondering where to start? Here are some essential cleaning tasks I always add to my cleaning schedule:
Wash and store patio furniture before the weather turns
Deep clean and cover your grill (and season flat-top griddles)
Swap summer clothes & sandals for boots & jackets
Declutter closets and donate any unused spring & summer items
Pack away outdoor gear: bikes, camping supplies, firepits, and sports equipment
Clean windows and screens with the proper products
Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures
Change HVAC filters
Organize the pantry and check baking supplies before the holidays
Pro tip: Even if you missed Prime Day, Amazon often has discounted cleaning and storage supplies year-round.
What Should You Clean in the Fall?
How Do You Store Patio Furniture for Winter?
If you’re not going to be entertaining in the late fall months, it’s time to put away the patio furniture. However, before you do, make sure to clean, dry, and cover each item.
Wipe down tables and chairs using proper cleaners
Spot-clean or wash cushions, throw pillows, and outdoor blankets
Fully dry each item before storage
Use a heavy-duty waterproof cover if you’re storing furniture outdoors in rainy or snowy areas
Use a UV-resistant cover if you’re leaving furniture outside in sunny winter months
Pro Tip: In the early fall, many dry cleaners offer discounts on patio cushion cleaning. If you’re already tackling a lot of other projects, this may save you time (and money).
How Should You Prep Your Grill?
Even if you grill year-round, use the fall to deep-clean your grill. Scrub the grates, clean up residue on the handle and covers, and empty the grease. Remember to disconnect the propane tank before covering the grill.
Should You Season a Griddle Before Winter?
If you’re like me and you use a flat-top griddle, you’ll want to season it before storing it for the winter months. A protective layer of oil will help keep the surface from rusting when it’s not in use.
How Do You Organize Summer Clothes for Fall?
Closets get crowded fast this time of year. I prefer to go through my entire closet each season—it makes it easier to see what to donate.
Box up swimsuits and shorts
Vacuum-seal summer dresses
Pack away sandals and beach bags in clear totes
Label bins and bags so spring unpacking is simple
Pro Tip: If you haven’t worn something in six months, donate it. If it hasn’t fit in a year, let it go.
How Should You Store Outdoor & Sports Gear?
From camping equipment to soccer cleats and bikes, summer gear piles up quickly. Clean it and store it properly now.
Clean everything before storage (sleeping bags, tents, uniforms)
Dry thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew
Use breathable containers (mesh bags or bins)
Deflate inflatable gear like air mattresses and pool floats
Hang bikes if possible to save space and prevent tire flattening
Ready to store your bike for the winter? Check out our Winter Bike Storage Guide.
I put my brand-new spices in these jars - keeping them handy and organized for holiday baking season.
I put my brand-new spices in these jars - keeping them handy and organized for holiday baking season.What Should You Organize in Fall?
Fall isn’t just about cleaning and putting summer gear away. It’s also a great time to get the inside of your home holiday-ready!
Pantry & Baking Essentials
‘Tis the season of pies, cookies, and family dinners. Before crafting my holiday menus or pie-baking plan, I take stock of my pantry.
Sort through spices, flour, sugar, and baking mixes
Toss expired food
Make a list of what needs restocking
There’s nothing worse than realizing you’re out of baking powder mid-recipe (and yes, it’s happened to me!). Organizing now means less stress later. Use clear containers or labeled bins—I personally love Lock-n-Lock containers. Group baking supplies together so everything is at your fingertips when holiday cooking begins.
Lock-n-Lock Containers are great for keeping items secure and organizing your pantry area.Holiday Prep
Once October arrives, I start pulling out fall décor, baking tools, and wrapping supplies. At the same time, I decide what to donate or toss:
Holiday décor I didn’t use last year
Twinkle lights that no longer work
Scraps of wrapping paper or empty tubes
Old holiday cards (unless sentimental)
Other Areas to Tidy
A few other areas to consider organizing?
Coat Closet: Make room now for heavier jackets and boots
Entryways: Clear space for a boot tray and umbrellas
Guest Bathroom: If you’re hosting this holiday season, make sure to clean and freshen the bathroom. Wash the shower curtain, refresh the linens, and get any grime & buildup off the showerhead and faucets.
FAQs About Fall Cleaning
Why is fall cleaning important?
It prepares your home for the holidays, protects outdoor gear from damage, and makes your space more welcoming for the colder months.
How do you store patio furniture?
Clean, dry, and cover with a waterproof or UV-resistant cover. Store cushions separately in bins or a climate-controlled space.
Should I clean windows in the fall?
Yes. Cleaning windows before winter removes pollen and dust while letting in more light during shorter days.
How do I keep spices fresh for holiday baking?
Store them in airtight containers, toss anything older than 1–2 years, and keep baking supplies grouped for easy access.
A Fall Cleaning Reset for Peace of Mind
Fall cleaning is less about perfection (like spring cleaning!) and more about creating breathing room for the holidays. If you create a basic routine now, you’ll head into winter organized, stress-free, and ready to enjoy cozy season.
If you’re looking for extra space in your home, it may be the perfect time to look into self-storage solutions. Storage Star offers secure, convenient self-storage units that are perfect for seasonal items, furniture, and holiday décor. Find a location near you today!
FAQs
Why should I do fall cleaning if I already spring clean?
Fall cleaning helps prepare your home for the holidays and colder months. It also protects summer gear like patio furniture and grills so they last longer.
What should I clean in the fall?
Key fall cleaning tasks include washing patio furniture, deep-cleaning your grill, swapping summer clothes for winter wear, decluttering closets, and organizing outdoor gear.
How do I store patio furniture for the winter?
Clean and dry each piece, then cover with a waterproof or UV-resistant cover. Store cushions in bins or use a climate-controlled storage unit to prevent mold.
Should I season my Blackstone griddle before storing it?
Yes. Seasoning adds a protective oil layer that prevents rust during winter storage and keeps the surface ready for spring grilling.
How do I organize my pantry for holiday baking?
Check expiration dates on flour, sugar, and spices. Toss what’s expired, restock what’s missing, and group baking supplies together for easy access.
What’s the best way to store outdoor gear like bikes and camping equipment?
Clean and dry all gear, deflate inflatables, use breathable bins, and hang bikes to save space. Climate-controlled storage units are ideal for long-term protection.
Do I need to clean windows in the fall?
Yes. Washing windows and screens before winter removes dust and pollen and lets in more light during shorter days.
