By Rachael Thompson Interiors 11.04.2025

9 Tasks That Should Be on Your Autumn Cleaning Checklist

It's the perfect time to freshen up your home before it gets too cold out.

The start of a new season is the perfect time to reset and give your home a thorough clean. As life outside begins to slow, prepping your home for the cooler months ahead when you will bunker down is key.

Homes can get a little bit stuffy during the autumn and winter, so by getting your home clean and organised, you'll set yourself up for a more comfortable and functional cosy season.

Get stuck into these nine autumn cleaning tasks that will get your home in top shape for the colder months ahead.

1. Windows

Leaves, debris, and dust can accumulate on windows in autumn, so you'll want to give them a decent clean. Because the days are shorter in as well, having clean windows can help maixmise sunlight. Make sure you give window sills and tracks a good scrub, too.

2. Wardrobe

Now is the time for a closet purge to help minimise clutter and better organise your things. Take out your clothes and give your shelves a good wipe down with a damp, soapy cloth, getting into all of the corners of the shelves as well as the doors and handles. Leave it to air dry.

Move all of our summer clothes into storage or to a less accessible area of your wardrobe making way for your summer attire. Donate any items you no longer want/need.

3. Linen

Sure, we know you wash your linen all the time. But if you're bringing out throws, quilts, or a new colour combination for autumn, you'll need to give it all a wash before switching it over. This is also a great time to give your pillows and cushions a wash, which is something you should do every six months.

4. Rugs

If you have rugs, autumn is a great time to clean them and take them outside to air before it gets too cold. Start by vacuuming to remove any debris. The method for spot cleaning or a deep clean will depend on the type of rug you have e.g. when spot cleaning delicate wool rugs a gentle detergent is best. Many professional carpet cleaners can be hired for around $40 to do a great job deep cleaning carpets.

5. Outdoor area

Whether it's a tiny balcony or a full backyard, you likely won't be using your outdoor space as much during the cooler months. During autumn you'll need to rake leaves and store away or cover furniture you won't be using.

6. Pantry

When was the last time you properly cleared out your pantry? A well-organised pantry can help your cooking run more smoothly and save you time, stress, and money. Now is a good time to go through everything you have, checking expiry dates. Give each shelf a wipe down and organise foods and condiments by their category.

7. Fridge

Same goes for your fridge! Go through and get rid of any spoiled food. Pull out any removable sections and use a soft cloth with warm water to wipe the surfaces. For hard-to-remove dirt, use a diluted kitchen detergent.

8. Heating systems

If your portable heatings have been sitting in a cupboard or in storage all summer, there's a good chance they've gotten a bit dusty. Give them a quick dust before you bring them out and use them.

9. Bathroom cupboards

A little bathroom detox should be on the cards this autumn. Empty bottles of product, built-up grime from spills, expired medicine, and old toothbrushes need to go! Wipe down all surfaces and organise the items you do need into a layout that promotes easy use.