Summer has come to a close and the cool weather of Fall has already begun to creep in. While summer is all about going to the beach, taking vacations, and staying out late; Fall means apple picking, cuddly fires, and festive decorating. Make sure the tasks of preparing your home for the holiday season don’t get in the way of all the enjoyment by taking care of the tedious parts right now! I have put together a list of things you can do now that are going to set you up to enjoy your Fall season to the maximum potential.

• Wash all windows inside and out (Hint: Choose a cloudy day to better see any streaks)
• Check caulking and weather striping around doors and windows
• Take out and clean blinds (Taking them out of their holds ensures an all around clean)
• Clean drapes and other window treatments (Either by using a vacuum attachment or by washing but make sure to read labels first)
• Dust, wash, and rinse walls
• Clean all lighting fixtures including including the ones that are mounted on the ceiling
• Deep clean carpets (Have professionally cleaned if needed)
• Vacuum and spot-clean upholstered furniture and cushions (Deep clean if necessary)
• Clean kitchen cabinets by emptying them, washing them down, and then replacing dish mats)
• Declutter, reorganize, and clean out closets
• Check and clean gutters (Don’t forget to clean the downspouts too)
• Clean patio furniture and store away
• Check exterior paint. stones, bricks, etc. (Touch up as needed)