One-Hour-a-Day Fall Cleaning Plan

Instead of overwhelming weekend marathons, this schedule breaks autumn chores into daily, bite-sized projects. Devote just an hour each day, and in two weeks your home will feel organized, refreshed, and ready for the colder months.

Day 1: Entryways and Living Spaces

Start where guests first arrive. Shake out welcome mats, wipe down doors, and dust lamps or decorative pieces in your front hall. Vacuum rugs and freshen up the main living area by fluffing cushions and wiping coffee tables or shelves.

Day 2: Wardrobe Switch-Out

Rotate out summer clothing and shoes. Donate what you no longer need, box up warm-weather pieces, and bring in cozy layers, boots, and sweaters. Neatly fold and stack to create breathing room in closets and drawers.

Day 3: Bathroom Reset

Wash or replace shower curtains and bath mats. Scrub faucets, shine mirrors, and clear under-sink clutter. Restock soap, tissues, and guest toiletries so the bathroom is winter-ready.

Day 4: Kitchen Surface Shine

Wipe down counters, cabinet doors, and backsplashes. Give appliances like the microwave, dishwasher, and stovetop a good cleaning. Don’t forget trash cans—wash, disinfect, and replace liners.

Day 5: Dusting Blitz

Do a whole-house sweep with a microfiber cloth or duster. Hit bookshelves, ceiling fans, mirrors, picture frames, and glass tabletops. These surfaces often get overlooked, but a quick pass makes everything sparkle.

Day 6: Window Glow and Lighting

Wash windows inside (and outside if the weather allows) to welcome the softer fall light. Wipe down fixtures and lampshades, and replace any dim or burnt-out bulbs for a brighter, cozier atmosphere.

Day 7: Soft Furnishings

Vacuum and refresh upholstery, wash pillow covers and throws, and dust lampshades. Sprinkle baking soda on upholstered furniture to neutralize odors before vacuuming it away. Curtains can be laundered or gently vacuumed, depending on care instructions.

Day 8: Gutters and Outdoor Spaces

Clear gutters of leaves and debris to prevent clogs before the first freeze. Sweep porches and wash down patios or walkways. If you don’t own a power washer, a long-handled scrub brush and soapy water work wonders.

Day 9: Carpets and Hard Floors

Vacuum thoroughly, then deep-clean carpets with shampoo, steam, or a simple baking soda treatment. Mop hardwood or tile, and give baseboards a quick scrub to erase scuffs and dust.

Day 10: Fireplace and Chimney

Tidy up the hearth—sweep out ash, scrub with a stiff brush, and vacuum leftover dust. If you plan to use your fireplace all season, schedule a professional chimney inspection or cleaning.

Day 11: Kitchen Organization

Empty the fridge and freezer, tossing expired or freezer-burned food. Wipe shelves, check pantry items, and sort through spices. Pull appliances forward to sweep away hidden crumbs and dust.

Day 12: Outdoor Furniture

Clean and dry patio chairs, tables, and cushions before storing them away. Wood can benefit from a protective finish, while metal, wicker, and plastic wipe clean with mild soap and water. Make sure everything is fully dry to prevent mildew.

Day 13: Yard and Garden

Rake fallen leaves, trim bushes, and clear out garden beds. Protect plant roots with mulch and move delicate houseplants indoors before temperatures drop.

Day 14: Systems and Safety Check

Replace HVAC filters and check vents for blockages. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, swapping in new batteries if needed. A quick review of these systems ensures peace of mind through winter.