The leaves are turning, the air is crisp, and pumpkin spice everything is officially back—fall is here!
I love this time of year, but let’s be honest- between busy schedules, fall activities, and the holidays creeping up, it’s easy for things to pile up.
That’s why I’m all about using a few fall cleaning hacks to get things back on track. It’s like a little reset to get your home cleaned and organized for all the fall fun.
It could be swapping out summer blankets for cozy throws or giving the kitchen a quick clean-up. Fall home prep doesn’t have to be hard.
In this post, I’m sharing simple tips and a room-by-room checklist to help make your home feel refreshed, cozy, and totally ready for the season. Let’s jump in!
Key Takeaways
- Fall cleaning doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it’s about getting it clean for the new season.
- Use a cleaning checklist to help you with your fall cleaning.
- Breaking tasks into rooms makes it easier and faster to finish.
- With a clean home, you’ll feel ready to enjoy everything fall brings fully.
35 Must-Try Fall Cleaning Hacks for Busy Moms- Room-By-Room Lists!
Keep things simple and tackle fall cleaning one room at a time—it’s way less overwhelming that way. I’ve divided this list by room so you can focus on one space at a time and feel good about checking it off when you’re done!
Living Room Cleaning List
1. Dust Shelves and Decor
Shelves seem to attract dust the second you look away, right?
Grab a microfiber cloth, an old sock (seriously, it works!), or even a feather duster and tackle those surfaces.
Start from the top and work your way down so you’re not just moving dust from one spot to another.
Don’t forget the tops of picture frames and any decor pieces—those spots are sneaky dust collectors!
2. Vacuum Under Furniture
When was the last time you moved the couch? No shame—mine always seems to hide an entire snack stash, plus a few toys the kids forgot about. It’s like a treasure hunt, but with crumbs.
Slide it over (or grab some help for the heavy stuff) and vacuum up all the crumbs, dust bunnies, and random things lurking underneath.
Don’t forget to check under other heavy pieces, like coffee tables or bookshelves, while you’re at it. Who knows! You might even find that missing sock, remote, or some spare change!
3. Clean the Windows
Fall sunlight is beautiful, but it also makes every streak and smudge on your windows obvious.
Grab some glass cleaner and a paper towel—or try newspaper for a streak-free finish—and wipe them down inside and out.
Remember the window sills; they can trap a lot of dirt and even dead bugs (yikes!). If you have curtains, now’s a great time to change them out for something to match the season.
4. Refresh Throw Blankets and Pillows
Giving your blankets and pillows a little love can totally brighten up your space.
Throw them in the wash or change them out for fall-inspired options like chunky knits or warm plaids.
It’s a simple update, but it makes the whole room feel extra warm and inviting.
And, who doesn’t love snuggling under a clean, soft blanket on a chilly fall night? Pure comfort, right there.
5. Wipe Down Baseboards
Baseboards might not be the first thing you notice, but once they’re clean, the whole room looks better.
A quick wipe with a damp cloth or even a dryer sheet works wonders for getting rid of dust and scuff marks. If you have time, follow up with a touch of polish to make them really pop.
It’s one of those small tasks that makes a big impact!
6. Tidy and Organize Surfaces
If your coffee table looks like mine, it’s probably covered in random stuff—books, toys, snacks, maybe a half-empty coffee cup.
Take a few minutes to clear off the clutter, toss or relocate what doesn’t belong, and organize the rest.
Adding a small tray or basket for essentials like remotes can help keep things tidy going forward.
7. Add Some Fall to the Room
Bringing in all the cozy fall stuff is the best part of refreshing your living room!
Add a pumpkin-scented candle, drape a plaid throw over the arm of the couch, or scatter a few mini pumpkins or seasonal decor around the space.
It’s more than just decorating—it’s creating a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for all those snuggly fall moments.
Kitchen Fall Cleaning List
8. Wipe Down Countertops and Cabinets
Why do countertops and cabinets always seem to be sticky or covered in crumbs?
Grab your favorite cleaner and give them a quick wipe-down—it doesn’t take long, but it makes such a difference.
Don’t forget the cabinet handles; they’re basically magnets for sticky fingerprints.
Once they’re clean, the whole kitchen feels a little brighter.
9. Deep Clean the Fridge
Alright, time to face the fridge. Toss those mystery leftovers, wipe down the shelves, and maybe even pull out the drawers if they’re looking grimy.
I like to pop in some baking soda to keep things smelling fresh—no one wants to open the fridge and catch a whiff of something smelly. You’ll feel like a rockstar every time you open it up to grab a snack.
10. Tidy and Organize the Pantry
Pantries can get messy so fast! Things get pulled out, shoved back in the wrong spot, or forgotten in the back until they expire.
Start by taking everything out—yes, even the stuff you forgot you bought last year.
Check expiration dates, group things like snacks and baking supplies together, and maybe throw in some bins or baskets to keep it all neat.
Once it’s organized, you’ll actually be able to find what you need without digging through a million boxes of half-eaten crackers.
11. Clean the Oven
Fall means baking season is here, and your oven deserves a little love before all those pies and casseroles take over.
Scrub out the baked-on messes or, if you’re in a rush, let the self-clean button handle the hard work (no judgment—life’s busy!).
While you’re at it, wipe down the door and knobs for a quick refresh. This one’s a must-have on the fall cleaning checklist—your future baking self will thank you when everything’s ready to go.
12. Sweep and Mop the Floors
Fall means dirt and leaves somehow always end up inside—especially with kids or pets dragging them in the back door.
A quick sweep gets the big stuff, and a good mop takes care of the rest, leaving things feeling fresh. Focus on entryways and spots where everyone’s constantly walking.
If you’ve got time, move a couple of things around, like chairs or small rugs, to get those hidden spots, too. It’s an easy little hack that makes your home feel so much cozier in no time!
13. Wipe Down Appliances
Microwave splatters, fingerprints on the dishwasher, smudges on the stove—yeah, they could use a little love.
Grab a cloth and your favorite cleaner to give them a good wipe-down, and suddenly everything looks shiny and refreshed.
Don’t forget handles and buttons—they’re always the grimiest spots! I always add this to my fall cleaning list because it’s such a quick and satisfying win, and it makes the whole kitchen feel put together.
14. Declutter the Kitchen Cabinets and Drawers
Take some time to clear out the random gadgets, mismatched Tupperware, or that appliance you haven’t touched in two years.
While you’re at it, wipe down the shelves and drawers to get rid of crumbs and dust hiding in the corners. Organize what you’re keeping so everything’s easy to grab when you need it.
Then, add a touch of fall to the kitchen—maybe a cute pumpkin, cinnamon soap by the sink, or a festive dish towel.
You’ll love how refreshed and inviting the space feels, just in time for holiday baking and those cozy fall evenings.
Bedroom Fall Cleaning List
15. Wash the Bedding
There’s just something about climbing into fresh sheets at the end of a long day, isn’t there?
Toss your bedding in the wash—sheets, pillowcases, and the comforter if it fits.
If it’s been a while, you might want to freshen up mattress protectors and pillow inserts, too.
Swap in cozy flannel or fall-colored blankets to really set a warm and inviting tone for the season.
16. Flip or Rotate the Mattress
When was the last time you flipped your mattress? It’s one of those things we always forget but makes such a difference for comfort and longevity.
While you’ve got it off the bed, vacuum both sides to get rid of dust and allergens.
If your mattress is one-sided, rotating it 180 degrees still helps keep it in good shape.
17. Dust Furniture and Surfaces
Nightstands, dressers, and shelves tend to become dust magnets over time. Take a microfiber cloth or a duster and give them all a good wipe-down.
Don’t forget to dust the tops of headboards or the edges of mirrors—they’re easy to miss but make a big difference.
Finish with a furniture polish to leave everything looking shiny and refreshed.
18. Declutter Closets
Closets can get chaotic in no time, especially when seasons change.
Take a little time to pack away summer clothes, pull out the coziest sweaters, and donate anything that doesn’t fit or hasn’t been worn in forever.
To make things even easier, organize by category or color—it’s a little hack that saves time when getting ready every morning.
19. Clean Under the Bed
Who knows what’s hiding under there? Maybe some dust bunnies and random lost socks, maybe a toy or two if you’ve got kids or pets.
Slide out any storage bins, sweep or vacuum thoroughly, and reclaim anything you’ve been missing (hello, favorite sock!).
Keeping this area clean helps reduce allergens in your bedroom.
20. Wipe Down Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans
Light fixtures and ceiling fans are total dust collectors, especially when they’re out of sight and out of mind.
Use a microfiber cloth or a duster to wipe them clean and catch any sneaky cobwebs hiding up there.
If your fixtures are glass, giving them a quick wash will make your lighting look brighter and your room feel fresher.
21. Vacuum or Shampoo Carpets
Carpets handle a lot—dirt, dust, and whatever else gets dragged in.
A good vacuuming works wonders, but if you can, go the extra step and deep clean them with a carpet shampooer.
While you’re at it, take some baking soda and sprinkle it on the carpet before you vacuum to help neutralize odors.
22. Change Out Bedding
Now for the fun part—adding cozy fall touches to your bedroom!
Drape a warm-toned throw blanket over the bed, swap out decorative pillows for fall-inspired designs, or bring in a small vase with dried flowers.
A few simple touches can transform the space into the perfect fall retreat where you’ll want to spend all your cozy evenings.
Bathroom Fall Cleaning List
23. Scrub the Shower and Tub
The shower and tub can get pretty gross with soap scum, hard water stains, and who knows what else.
Use a scrub brush and your favorite cleaner to tackle the buildup—it’s not the most glamorous task, but it makes a big difference.
While you’re at it, check the grout for any mildew or discoloration, and give it a good scrub, too.
Starting your day in a sparkling clean shower just feels so much better.
24. Dust & Wipe Down Mirrors
Bathroom mirrors seem to attract streaks and smudges like magnets. Dust down all around and use glass cleaner or a mix of vinegar and water for a natural option, and give them a good wipe-down.
Don’t forget to clean around the edges, where dust loves to hide. Sparkling mirrors can make your whole bathroom feel brighter and fresher!
25. Clean the Sink and Countertops
Between toothpaste splatters and soap residue, sinks seem to be a mess magnet.
Scrub them down and give the countertops a thorough wipe to clear off water spots and stray makeup powder.
If you’ve got soap dishes or toothbrush holders, take a second to rinse or clean those too—they’re sneaky grime collectors.
26. Declutter Cabinets and Drawers
Bathroom cabinets have a way of turning into storage spots for half-used products and forgotten clutter.
Toss out anything expired, organize what’s left, and maybe add some small baskets to keep things tidy.
It’s also a great chance to take inventory of what you actually need—no more buying the same thing twice because you forgot you had it!
A little organization now makes mornings so much smoother.
27. Deep Clean the Toilet
Let’s be honest—nobody loves cleaning the toilet, but it’s gotta be done. Give the bowl a good scrub, wipe down the seat, and don’t skip the base and surrounding floor—dust and grime always seem to find their way there.
If you’ve got kids, take a peek at the back of the toilet for any “oops” moments. While you’re at it, a quick spray with disinfectant can go a long way in keeping things fresh.
A sparkling clean toilet might not be glamorous, but it definitely makes the whole bathroom feel fresher.
28. Wash Bathroom Rugs and Mats
Rugs and mats see a lot of traffic, so throwing them in the wash is a quick and easy refresh.
Use warm water and your favorite detergent to bring them back to life.
While you’re at it, check the care tag on your shower curtain—it might be time to toss that in the wash too. Fresh linens give the bathroom an instant lift without much effort.
29. Mop the Floors
Bathroom floors pick up everything—hair, dust, and stuff you don’t even want to think about.
Sure, mopping is usually a weekly thing, but fall is a great time to go all in with a deep clean. Sweep up the big stuff first, then mop with a cleaner that smells fresh and clean.
Don’t forget to get behind the toilet—it’s nobody’s favorite spot, but it’s so worth it.
If you’ve got grout, grab a little brush and scrub those high-traffic spots.
30. Clean Light Fixtures and Vents
It’s easy to forget about light fixtures and vents, but giving them some attention can really freshen things up.
A quick wipe-down of the lights brightens the room, and vacuuming the vents helps the air flow better.
It’s one of those small tasks that feels great to tackle and leaves your space looking tidy and refreshed.
While you’re at it, swap out any burnt-out bulbs and check for buildup around the vents—it’s an easy way to keep everything running smoothly as the weather cools down!
Outdoor Fall Cleaning
31. Clear Out Gutters
Cleaning gutters isn’t exactly fun, but it’s so important to do before fall leaves really start piling up.
Throw on some gloves, grab a sturdy ladder, and scoop out any debris to keep water flowing smoothly.
Clogged gutters can lead to major problems like leaks or damage, so tackling this now can save you a lot of hassle later.
32. Sweep Porches and Patios
Leaves, dirt, and cobwebs seem to take over porches and patios as soon as fall hits.
A quick sweep can do wonders to tidy things up and make your outdoor spaces feel welcoming again.
If you’ve got extra time, consider hosing down any stubborn spots to give everything a fresh look.
33. Clean Outdoor Furniture
Fall’s still prime time for hanging out on the patio, so it’s a good idea to give your outdoor furniture a quick clean and check for repairs.
Grab a cloth and wipe down the chairs, tables, and cushions to clear off dirt, pollen, and leftover summer grime.
Plus, it’s nice knowing everything’s clean and ready when you want to kick back with a fall drink.
While you’re at it, check for any repairs or touch-ups so your furniture lasts even longer!
34. Rake the Yard
Raking leaves may seem like a chore, but it’s actually a great way to keep your lawn happy and ready for the colder months.
Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to get everyone outside—let the kids go wild jumping in the leaf piles while you soak up some fresh air.
And hey, it’s basically a mini workout that leaves your yard looking great!
35. Wash Windows and Doors
Fall sunlight has a way of showing every smudge, streak, and speck of dirt on your windows and doors.
Grab a bucket of warm soapy water or your favorite glass cleaner and give them a good scrub.
Don’t forget the door frames and tracks—they tend to collect dirt and leaves over time. Clean windows not only brighten up your home but also give you a clear view of all those beautiful fall colors outside.
FAQs
What is Fall Cleaning?
Fall cleaning is like spring cleaning’s sister. It’s not about scrubbing every inch of your house—it’s more about a quick refresh to get your home ready for the season.
After all the summer fun is over, a few fall cleaning hacks can go a long way in making your space feel cozy and organized.
For me, it’s not about fall deep cleaning every nook and cranny. Instead, I focus on the areas that need a little extra attention.
A solid fall house cleaning list keeps things simple—cleaning out the fridge, swapping in cozy blankets, and maybe adding a fall-scented candle for good vibes.
Fall cleaning and organizing don’t have to be overwhelming. It’s just about making your home feel good and ready for all the pumpkin-spiced fun ahead.
When should I start Fall cleaning?
Honestly, there’s no “right” time to start. I usually wait for that first crisp weekend when I feel like lighting a pumpkin spice candle and swapping my summer throws for something cozier. That’s when I tackle some fall cleaning and organizing without feeling overwhelmed.
For me, that’s usually late September or early October. It’s the perfect time to check off a few things on my fall house cleaning list before the holiday craziness kicks in.
The trick is to start before things get too busy. Spread it out over a week or two, use a few fall cleaning hacks to save time, and you’ll have your home feeling cozy and ready before you know it!
What can I do to start Fall cleaning?
Getting started with fall cleaning is easy. I like to jot down a quick fall house cleaning list—just the main things that need some love. It helps me avoid that whole “where do I even start?” panic.
One of my favorite fall cleaning hacks is to take it one room at a time. I’ll tackle the living room today and leave the kitchen for tomorrow.
It keeps me from feeling like I have to do everything at once, and checking off each room feels so satisfying!
Here’s another fall cleaning hack: gather all your supplies before you start. Having everything—multipurpose cleaner, a good duster, maybe even a fall candle—ready to go makes it way easier to get into the groove.
More Cleaning Tips!
Are you looking for more easy cleaning ideas? I’ve got you covered!
Check out these Spring Cleaning Hacks for quick ways to freshen up your space or these Lazy Cleaning Tips if you’re in the mood for shortcuts that actually work.
Both are packed with ideas to make cleaning a little less of a headache.
Final Thoughts
Fall cleaning doesn’t have to be a big, overwhelming project. It doesn’t have to be done in one day. It can be done over several weeks.
It’s really about those little things that make your home feel fresh, cozy, and ready for the season ahead.
Whether you’re tackling one room at a time or squeezing in a quick outdoor task between busy days, it’s all about making progress.
Before you know it, your home will be ready for all the bonfires, movie nights, and memories this fall. You’ve got this, Mama!
