Fall Cleaning for the Home

We often hear about the need for a spring cleaning, but what about a fall cleaning?  A widespread clean-up in fall is just as important as what you do in the springtime.  It provides an opportunity for you to start preparing for the coming winter months, when doors and windows will be kept closed most of the time to keep the warmth in and the cold out.
 
Here are some useful tips for tackling your home's fall cleaning.

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Throughout the home:
As the weather gets colder, you'll likely be spending more time indoors; and with doors and windows tightly sealed to keep in the warmth, you'll have less air flow.  Dust, dirt, and indoor air pollutants will all be trapped inside, affecting the air that you breathe in daily.  To maintain the highest indoor air quality possible, perform a thorough cleaning in early fall.  Complete a thorough dusting (including those places you might normally ignore) and do a deep clean of all carpets.
 
In the kitchen:
Do a walk-through of the fridge and cupboards; throw out anything that's unusable or expired, and do some general tidying up.  This is also a good time to take stock of the condition of your countertops.  Over time, all kinds of stuff can accumulate across counters, creating unnecessary clutter and taking up valuable space.  Consider if some of these items need to be thrown out, or if they can be stored out of sight.  You'll free up usable counter space, and the room will look cleaner and tidier as a result.
 
In the bathroom:
You probably already clean your bathroom on a fairly regular basis, so think of this as a time to kick your cleaning routine up a notch, and tackle those areas you don't routinely address.  For instance, clean the bathroom fan, give the shower tiles a proper scrub, and go through bathroom drawers and cupboards to see if there are old products that need to be pitched.
 
In the bedroom:
If your pillows are old and they haven't been laundered in a while, now is the time to give them a wash, so they don't become laden with dust and dust mites.  If you aren't already using pillow protectors and a mattress protector, these are an excellent investment in fall.  They'll protect your bedding from dust, dirt, and sweat, and the protectors can easily be thrown in the wash any time.  Also, don't underestimate the amount of dust that builds up on drapes and/or blinds. You can give these a proper cleaning using the appropriate cleaning attachment on your vacuum cleaner.
 
Keeping the air fresh:
Much as you want to keep things clean, the last thing you want is to be inhaling chemicals and fumes all winter long.  Vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice are natural cleaners that make a great alternative to chemical cleaners, and they can be used throughout the home on a regular basis.  Having some plants in your home can also help; numerous studies have shown that plants contribute to improved air quality.  Lastly, if your environment is especially prone to dust, or if you're sensitive in this regard, an air purifier is a worthwhile investment.