As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, September signals a fresh start in more ways than one. Not only does it mark back-to-school season, but it’s also the perfect time for a post-summer reset—and that includes our homes. In fact, Tuesday, September 17th, is National Professional House Cleaners Day, making it the ideal moment to declutter and reorganize your space before the hustle of the holidays begins.
With 74% of Canadians admitting they feel they should clean more, there’s no better time than autumn to do a deep clean, tackle those overlooked corners, and create a cozy haven to hunker down in as the weather cools. From decluttering to seasonal maintenance, a little effort now can save you headaches later—not to mention set the tone for a stress-free holiday season.
To help us kick off this autumnal cleaning frenzy, we caught up with Dionne Livingstone, cleaning expert at Home Spritz, Canada’s leading cleaning marketplace. Dionne is here to share her expert tips on how to make decluttering feel less overwhelming, what areas to prioritize, and why now is the best time for a cleaning reset! —Vita Daily
Why do you think autumn is an ideal time for Canadians to engage in a seasonal cleaning reset, and how does it differ from the traditional spring cleaning? The change in seasons is inherently symbolic of transformation, making it a natural time to reflect on and refresh one’s living space. While many folks think of ‘spring cleaning’ as a time to deep clean those often-forgotten parts of our homes, autumn is also an ideal time to reset our cleaning habits and prepare our homes for the colder months ahead. Winter in Canada is synonymous with snow, cold, and extended indoor living. As the days become shorter and Canadians spend more time indoors, ensuring a clean and clutter-free environment is essential. This includes tasks such as cleaning gutters, sealing windows, and servicing heating systems. Additionally, it’s a great time to store away summer gear and clothing, making room for winter essentials. By taking a proactive approach, Canadians can reduce the likelihood of unexpected repairs during harsher weather conditions.
What are the key benefits of doing a deep clean and declutter during this time of year, especially with the holiday season approaching? This seasonal transition offers a perfect opportunity to declutter living spaces, making room for winter essentials and holiday décor. Beyond practicality, cleaning and organizing in the fall can provide psychological benefits by fostering a sense of accomplishment and clarity. This sets a positive tone for a more organized and stress-free winter before the busy holiday season begins. In addition, ensuring a clean and clutter-free environment can enhance comfort and productivity.
When it comes to outdoor spaces, what are your top recommendations for cleaning and properly storing patio furniture and outdoor items before winter arrives? Purchase good patio covers if patio furniture, such as tables and chair frames, is going to be left outside. Otherwise, it is recommended to store furniture inside to preserve it from UV rays, which can reduce its lifespan over time. Before storing, make sure that the furniture is washed with soap and water. Cushions with stains or dirt marks should be cleaned with a mild detergent. Most cushions can be hosed down to refresh them, just ensure that they are thoroughly dry before placing them into storage.
Hard-to-reach places like windows, fireplaces, and gutters often get overlooked. What are your tips for tackling these areas efficiently and ensuring they are ready for the colder months? Hard-to-reach places can often go unnoticed when cleaning, but these spots are important to address to maintain their longevity. For fireplaces, start by wiping out the front vents, and then vacuuming the front access panel with a nozzle attachment to clear the fuzz, dust, and debris from the controls. If the fireplace has an interior glass front, safely remove and place the panel on a secure surface to touch it up with soap and water. Vinegar or glass cleaner can be used for any stubborn film deposits. Gas fireplace cleaners can often be purchased from a local home improvement store. High-interior windows and surfaces can be cleaned using an extension pole with a microfiber flat mop attachment to reach ledges, ceiling light fixtures, or fan blades. Targeting those inaccessible areas before the winter months can help combat any preexisting dust and keep fixtures in good condition.
Many people don’t prioritize cleaning kitchen appliances like stoves, dishwashers, and refrigerators. Can you explain why it’s essential to winterize these appliances and how it can prevent bigger issues down the line? Winterizing appliances is a crucial step in maintaining their longevity and keeping them operating at their peak performance. Starting with the refrigerator, unplug it first, then empty it and clean all surfaces including the fridge door seals. Next, leave the doors open to fully dry, wipe the sides down, and gently vacuum the condenser with a soft brush attachment to remove built-up dust. Inspect water lines and shut-off valves for any issues. Although a tedious task, this step will help ensure long-term functionality. For a stove, begin by cleaning the oven and racks, then wipe down all external surfaces. Ensure the stovetop is thoroughly cleaned to eliminate any stubborn grease and cooking oil residue, and do not forget to address the hood range. Remove the filters and soak them to eliminate accumulated grease, and clean the interior of the hood to remove any grease or oil buildup. A dishwasher can be winterized by running an empty cycle with vinegar or dishwasher cleaner. The door seals should be cleaned and checked for any signs of wear, and filters should be cleaned to remove food buildup. During the winterization process, it is a good time to note any wear or damage to key parts of appliances that may affect their efficiency and lifespan.
Decluttering can feel overwhelming for some. What strategies or methods do you recommend to make the process more manageable and less stressful? Start small. Decluttering can be simplified by tackling one area at a time, like a room or drawer, to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Next, set specific goals for each session, such as employing the “one in, one out” rule when organizing a closet. Removing an item for every new one brought in helps to maintain balance, and having clear guidelines in place will provide a sense of accomplishment. Lastly, it’s vital to keep a positive mindset; decluttering should be viewed as a path to a more peaceful living space. Regular breaks can prevent burnout, while small rewards for completed tasks help maintain motivation throughout the process.
What common cleaning mistakes do you see homeowners make in the autumn, and how can they be avoided? One of the most common mistakes is neglecting outdoor maintenance. Homeowners often forget to clean their gutters, which can lead to blockages and water damage. Another mistake is not sealing windows and doors properly, allowing cold drafts that increase heating costs. To avoid these pitfalls, make a checklist of outdoor tasks and set reminders to complete them before the first snowfall.
As Canadians prepare to spend more time indoors, what simple steps can they take to create a cozy, clutter-free environment that feels welcoming for both family and guests? By the time autumn rolls around and temperatures get colder, Canadians enter hibernation mode, and it is important to keep spaces clean and inviting. Start by decluttering common areas like the living room and kitchen to cultivate a more calming atmosphere where everyone can feel good about spending more time. Incorporating warm elements like throw blankets and candles can help make a space feel cozier. Keeping high-traffic areas clean and organized can help ensure a seamless, clutter-free transition into increased indoor activity that feels welcoming, functional, and comfortable.
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