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Fall Cleaning

August 31, 2018

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Fall cleaning is a real thing.

Why clean in spring when we spend all day inside in the winter. Get the tips for a clean house before the holidays hit.

Why Deep Cleaning And Organizing In Fall Is Best

Am I the only one who cleans up and out in preparation for fall?

I know, I know, spring is the time we're supposed to get organized, open the windows, clean out the cobwebs and vacuum behind stuff.

But honestly, I much prefer to do it as the chilly weather approaches.

Who wants to be stuck inside on a warm May day after being cooped up for several months.

When the sun shines and the mercury starts to rise, this girl wants to get outside.

So I go. I sit on the beach, I float in the pool, I plant flowers and hang out in my cottage garden.

Sure, the regular cleaning takes place on a daily basis, but there's no extraordinary effort expended or monumental purge.

Well...until fall.

I know, it's backwards.

But should it be?

I mean think about it. Fall and winter is when we spend the majority of our time indoors. Shouldn't the house be cleanest and most organized during those months?

Why am I busting my tail inside, scrubbing kitchen hardware and mopping wooden floors in spring when I'll be outside for the next three to four months?

Doesn't it just make more sense to deep clean for the times we'll be indoors most?

Maybe it's just me.

Maybe it's that I spent a lot of years in a classroom and September always feels like the real beginning of a new year. Time for a fresh, clean start.

Maybe it's because the kids go back to school and after a summer spent not caring about wet feet, wet bathing suits and sandy floors, it's time for a good scrubbing while the house has half a chance of sparking for a while.

Or maybe it's because I know that the walls will start closing in sometime around October and this place better be neat and tidy or I'll go nuts.

Especially once I start adding all the fall decor.



Either way, when I sense fall on the horizon, I get moving.

Fall Cleaning - How I Do It:

You can start cleaning the house for fall anytime you like. Either before the kids go back to class or right after.

It will make it much easier to navigate the school year with a tidy home and much more relaxing when Thanksgiving and Christmas entertaining time comes around.

1. Move From Room To Room


I don't use a checklist, I can see what needs to be done.

And besides, that's just another piece of clutter I don't need.

I basically just walk from room to room with my vinegar and water, the vacuum and garbage bag.

That's really the key - the garbage bag - because as I always say, the less stuff you have, the less you have to manage and that makes cleaning a snap.

Yesterday it wasn't even remotely like fall around here. It was close to 95...too humid to be outside for more than a quick dip in the pool, so during the dry moments,

I hit the basement.

White plastic hangers in laundry room

2. Tackle Things You've Been Putting Off


I cleaned out my laundry room, top to bottom, and tackled the piles that gathered all summer.

washed curtains and stored them away

I attended to stained garments and rugs I've been meaning to get to and I threw away garbage that had no right to be there.

I think I made about three bucks in change, too.

3. Clear Out The Clutter


Next, I moved on to my craft closet.

Somehow as summer progressed a giant pile of things that were supposed to go back in the closet grew on the floor next to it.

I started by tossing odd scraps of things I said I'd use someday, but haven't, then I assessed what I did have and organized it all into neat piles.

Craft supplies in an armoire

4. Clean, Scrub, Vacuum and Steam


Lastly, I vacuumed and steamed the couches, washed the throws and pillows, cleaned the floors and started a donation box.

I already need another one.

Today, I moved upstairs. I have to say that since I began simplifying, there's not a lot to organize and I make the kids do the vacuuming and dusting on a weekly basis, so it's also pretty clean.

Using A Squeegee On Shower Doors

The only jobs I really hate are cleaning the stove and the glass shower doors, but now that I have my Cerama Bryte trick, they're much less taxing and only have to be done occasionally.  

But the cabinets and the closets...how do they fill up so quickly?

And no matter how many times I fluff and fold they always look like an animal went digging through them for something. They are my nemesis.

Built in kitchen pantry


5. Update (If necessary)


Not ready for that job, I began with the kitchen pantry, tossing expired food and realizing that the old contact paper needs to be replaced and peel and stick wallpaper needed to go up.

I'm excited about that job...it almost counts as decorating!

And did you know those rolls came in darling patterns now? I had no idea until I gave my bathroom vanity a vintage style makeover. Now I'm hooked. 

Tomorrow, I'll move on to a few more of those messy closets and cabinets and give the house a deep once over with a vacuum, mop and rag.

And then I should be done with my fall cleaning routine.

Fresh, organized and ready for fall.

When we all come inside again.

For months.

Maybe fall cleaning's not so backwards after all.

Do you clean for fall?
Kim Signature


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  1. I'm with you. A good fall cleaning before winter sets in and a few touch-ups in the spring makes the most sense to me!

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    1. I'm so glad to hear that I'm not alone!! ☺️

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  2. I agree. I like to have it all cleaned & organized, so I can enjoy the holidays when they roll in. And then I have a clean palette for adding fall, then Christmas decorations. Your reasons make good sense!

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    1. That's exactly how I feel, Mary! I want it clean and organized and ready for the holidays! Thanks for the comment. I really thought I was alone!

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  3. I clean at the end of summer/beginning of fall. After being cooped up all winter I can’t stand to be inside any more. Too much fun stuff to do too. As a matter of fact I’m waiting for a new cleaning and decluttering book.

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    1. Oh! That sounds like fun, Barbara! Which book is it? I love to read about anything DIY and decor.

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    2. It’s entitled “Breathing Room”. It says “open your heart by decluttering your home”. Arrived today and I’m enjoying it. I don’t really have a problem letting stuff go but I hope this helps to let go of the stuff with the emotional attachment. Things got out of control after my husbands mom died and his dad decided to go into an independent living facility. I swear our house turned into their house. We’ve been making considerable progress and my hope is to keep moving forward and reclaim our lives 100%. Keep up the good work. Love your style and I too absolutely love red!

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    3. I'll have to look this one up. Thanks for sharing. We have a ton of stuff with emotional value around here since my mom passed earlier this year. Some of it isn't important and didn't really mean much before, but now, since mom is gone, it suddenly feels sacrilegious to part with it..which I know is silly. I should only keep what I truly love. I think I need the book!! I wish you luck on your own path and really appreciate your kind comment. I've read it over and over and it's been making me smile for days. ☺️

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  4. Whichever time of you the mood hits, it feels so good to get those things done!

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  5. I also deep clean in the fall. I do a little in the spring... windows because we have a woodstove and you just need to clean the window in the spring. But carpet cleaning, moving furniture to vacuum, closets... that all happens in the fall here.

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    1. That makes a lot of sense, Debi. I wash windows in the spring, too, since I'm usually changing out curtains then.

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  6. I try to do a deep clean twice a year.I didn't get a spring clean this year though because my health was so poor. I think I'll be able to get some deep cleaning done this fall though. I like to have it all nice & sparkling for the winter holidays.

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    1. I'm so glad you're feeling better now, Jenny...it's amazing what we look forward to being able to do when we aren't well, isn't it? I hope you can get to that cleaning soon, but don't tucker yourself out!

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  7. I live down in South Louisiana...hot and/or humid for so much of the year. Most springs we get about a two to three week window between winter and 'damn it's hot!', lol! Who wants to spend part of that brief window doing spring cleaning? So, I save the spring cleaning for fall and then I don't have to frantically try to clean on top of trying to decorate and cook for the holidays! I say we're all some pretty smart cookies!

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    1. I agree Kim!! Smart cookies, indeed. Perhaps it's in the name. ☺️😉

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  8. Yes I do deep fall cleaning. Then once again the beginning of January after all of the Christmas stuff comes down.

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  9. I am "on call" today for my job, so I intend to tackle indoor cleaning, too. Its so hot here - might as well work indoors. I am going through my clothes today, cleaning the oven, ironing, and working on some fall decor spiffs around the house. Its a great time to get ready for the holidays!

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    1. You sound so motivated! I still need to tackle my clothes, but I need the weather to cooperate. It's been hot than cold, than hot again. Mother Nature better make up her mind quick so I can finish my chores!!

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  10. Lawsy, wish I had that pantry! This year with the cataract surgeries, and the subsequent one month after you're supposed to watch it (yeah, right) I'm not planning much of anything. I get in enough trouble day to day.
    Brenda

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    1. Oh Brenda, we got lucky with that pantry. The rest of the kitchen was super tiny and the house has almost no storage overall...but someone was thinking when they built that pantry!!

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  11. Yes, Fall is the time for deep cleaning. For me, living in Florida means I spend August and September inside because the humidity and heat is oppressive. When that first hint of Fall is in the air I throw open the windows to air out the house and clean. Fresh crisp air and a clean house energizes me and makes me feel ready for the busy holiday season.

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    1. That's exactly how I feel, too. It starts with the humidity and the need to be indoors...but it's that first kiss of fall air that really lights the cleaning fire. I hope you get some fall air this week and escape that hurricane.

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  12. Well, I don't intentionally do a Spring or Fall cleanup, but I usually get the "urge to purge" around those times each year. I have been doing a lot of deep cleaning and getting rid of clutter, and I'm on a "organize everything" tear around here....Mr. I don't like change," is not thrilled (he'll get over it). I did a thorough cleaning a couple of weeks ago, just before doing my Fall decorating...yes, the inside of my house is "everything Fall," and I'm totally enjoying it. Haven't done the outside yet, since we may still have a monsoon storm or haboob to deal with; but my outside decor is all staged and ready to go.

    I think your idea is perfect and not strange at all!
    Carol

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    1. It's funny when that cleaning urge hits, Carol, isn't it? Some days I just wake up, look around and say, nope...it's all got to go! My Mr. doesn't love change either, but he doesn't like clutter either. Unfortunately that's a bad pair, he wants it gone, just not right now, so with him around I don't get much accomplished. Men don't have a nesting, cleaning and purging urge, do they? Ha!! And thank you...It does seem like I'm in good cleaning company. Phew!! Enjoy the week...and your organizing!

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  13. I've been cleaning like made for a few days now :-) We are celebrating our new year in a week's time and I'm determined to get rid of all of summer's dust and clutter before then. We don't get any rain during the summer, but dust we have plenty of... I missed you, my friend, and your lovely blog. It is good to be back.
    Amalia
    xo

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    1. So glad to have your back, Amalia! I wish you the most wonderful holidays and plenty of dust free days this fall!! Looking forward to hearing all about it!! xoxo

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  14. I am with YOU! I really do want to meet in person, I think we have so much in common. ;-) I did a deep clean today. I have plans to do more this week. The silverware drawer is on the top of the list.
    We are HOT and I am not in the mood for Autumn decorating yet. When I do the decorating a deep clean is in the works as well and I am ready for the rest of the holidays.

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    1. Oh Carla, an in person meeting would be lovely!! My silverware drawer is on the list for tomorrow. How does it get so messy, so fast? We are expecting hurricane effects later this week, so I will no doubt be inside toiling away! I hope you are getting sunshine and are in the garden!xo

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  15. I have that “clean and clear out bug” right now
    and I am sticking to it . . .
    Drawers, corners, closets, repeat . . .
    (I will be on this roll a long, long time.)

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    1. Lynne...I need to get my kids on the roll. They have boxes and bags in the basement that are a burr in my side. I'm going to try to motivate them this week. I'm not feeling optimistic! Good luck on with your closets!

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  16. you shouldn't ask this minimalist that! I live by all those catchy phrases and have for years.
    'the less you have the less you have to clean.'
    and it can still look cozy! when I say I'm a minimalist I think people picture me living in a white cube or something. it's just that I don't have tons of stuff sitting around getting dusty!
    and this line you wrote made me laugh out loud... but then you often do. it's what delights me about you! "Or maybe it's because I know that the walls will start closing in sometime around October and this place better be neat and tidy or I'll go nuts." THAT's how lots of "stuff" makes me feel. I go all nuts around it! I just can't breathe well.
    and I ONLY WISH our Fall would start in October. last year the leaves didn't even turn until mid December. it was weird. those that were still on the trees that is. ok. a minimalist and a GRIPER! SHEESH! love ya! xo

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    1. Oh Tammy, I love, love, love my small home, but I also love being outside. Once the cold and nasty weather hits, I love being inside cozied up, but I can't stand a lot of stuff around. I knew you'd get it. And that's so funny, I never pictured you in white cube! I do however picture you with very clean, simple white dishes. Probably because you told me that's what you have! And gripe away my friend...I am a fellow weather griper!! You're in good company here!! xoxo

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  17. Autumn is my favorite season. Something about the cooler mornings gets me going. It's invigorating to get up with the birds. Maybe that is what you are doing? Nesting! Or at least cleaning the nest.

    Thank you so much for writing me. It made my morning to see a comment.

    God Bless!

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    1. Nesting!! I do believe you're right, Melissa! I always seem to fall in love with my home again when fall hits. And so glad that you saw my comment and that it made you smile. Community really is the best thing about blogging! ☺️

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  18. A big YES on fall deep cleaning ~ who wants to be inside in the spring?!?! I'm just getting ready to start mine...

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    1. Glad to hear I’m not alone, Bobbie! This weekend I took a break, but I’m back at it tomorrow! Happy cleaning!

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  19. I am so with you. Autumn (Fall) is a great time to have a sort out and clean … I find it so much easier at this time of year, mainly because it's cooler!

    All the best Jan

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    1. I imagine you cleaning in house that smells like delicious food, Jan. Something warm and hearty for fall...your home must be heavenly!!

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  20. I had no idea contact paper came in vintage rolls! I love that! And I think once you have kids in school, September will always and forever mark the beginning of the new "year." :)

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    1. Oh my gosh, Lisa!! Is that the best or what??? I am so buying some very soon. I can't wait to get "papering"!! And happy new year!! Ha!!

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  21. I do a Fall cleaning too. It's the time of year when I want my pantry stocked, to avoid driving on icy roads this winter. I like the windows washed because I'm inside looking out instead of spending my days outside. Then there is the holidays and lots of company . . . it's nice to know that the dust bunnies are cleared away and there are no surprises around the corner or under the bed, LOL. Having a clean house to start the Autumn season is a very sweet thing indeed.
    So, here's to a happy clean home!
    Keep Smiling,
    Connie :)

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    1. Oh Connie, yes those dust bunnies. I thought that I had been doing a good job of keeping them at bay, but this weekend I lost my glasses under my bed and I found a few stragglers! Enjoy your warm and clean home this fall. It sounds wonderful and thanks so much for the visit!

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  22. It is a hit or miss around here for deep cleaning....it's when I have time to tackle something. I do clean a little when I change up the seasonal décor. Fall is a good time to clean though. Maybe I'll try it! :-)

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    1. It has to work for you, that's for sure, AnnMarie! I'm not a big fan of cleaning in general, but for some reason, fall just feels right around here. Enjoy the week!

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  23. I very much follow along with your preferense...cleaning and organizing in the fall prepares us for the holiday season big time! I'm a rainy day cleaner as well, and I purge whenever I get truly frustrated with clutter. Sometimes I think spring cleaning or the big surge of magazine/blog articles on cleaning in January is a psychological thing feeding on, "the fresh new year, a new start, a clean slate, etc." We shouldn't fall for that, do it when you want, but don't forget those January white sales!!! :)

    Jane

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    1. I agree, Jane. January gets all the hype, but fall is the best time for me to get my house in order. Maybe it's because as a teacher, September always represented the start of a new year, but it's what works for me. I do like those white sales though. 😉

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  24. I get it and I'm with you. Although I do spring clean a bit when changing out pillows, linens and decorations for the season. Fall is best for deep cleaning. You are not alone.

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    1. Thanks Clearissa...especially in a small home. I need to organize before the holidays and that clutter shows up!! Thanks for the visit and the comment. Always nice to hear I'm not alone!

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  25. I think you're on to something. Funny but I usually don't deep clean for fall but yesterday I cleaned some of my pantry shelf. Re-organized my baking stuff. It rained buckets all weekend so I decided to dig out an old rose bush between storms. The ground was was wet enough to make the job fairly easy. I was about ready to start cleaning carpets!

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    1. Ha! I think that's what happened to me one year, Debbie. The kids went off to school and the weather turned ick and I was stuck at home and started cleaning. Now it's become a habit. I hope you get some sunshine and enjoy your sparkling pantry!

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  26. I have to clean my closet too, Kim. No time but I will definitely find the time to do it. Kisses, my friend.

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  27. I clean for both fall and spring! Spring I have to give the house a good cleaning after I'm done with the woodstove for the season. Fall I give the house a good cleaning as I swap out decor. Maybe not as good as your cleaning, though.....I don't have time for that but if you want to come by I'd be most grateful!! xo

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    1. Debbie, your place always looks amazing...so cozy and welcoming and super clean! The only reason this cottage is easy to keep clean because it's teeny tiny. If it were any bigger, trust me, it wouldn't happen! I'd run out of steam. ☺️

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  28. I clean out everything and organize on a daily basis! We just got done with having a new roof put on the house. My husband and I spent last weekend cleaning out the garage. I cleaned out my bedroom closet like 2 weeks ago. It feels great to clean and organize everything!!

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    1. I agree, Julie! I do a lot of it on a daily basis, too. I find that if I don’t things build up quickly. And a new roof, huh? That’s a big job…I bet it looks great! Enjoy the week!

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  29. Here's a long and lovely (and clean!) fall, Teri! It really is a great time for fluffin' and featherin'...making the house cozy and warm. Enjoy the week and Happy September!! 💞

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  30. You know I had never thought about it that way. But now that you've pointed it out it actually makes a lot of sense.

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    1. Thanks Mary. Maybe it's just my way to feel better about fall... hahaha!!

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