- Why a thorough fall cleanup is good for your health.
- How to sort and purge your things to reduce clutter-related stress.
- Ideas for slowing down and enjoying your cleaned-up surroundings with those you love.
Most of us have done some spring cleaning in our lives. Maybe it’s even something you do every year as a way to officially say goodbye to winter.
As we move into the cooler days of fall, consider what you can do around your house to improve your physical and mental health—just like spring cleaning can rejuvenate you for warm weather, fall cleaning can get you ready for the longer, cooler days of the year.
Safety First
Fall is the perfect time to get your heating system, vents and chimney inspected as well as replace the batteries in your carbon monoxide detector. Once you start using your heat and enjoying fires, carbon monoxide can build up in your home if your equipment isn’t up to par. Check out this article on carbon monoxide.
Vacuum and Spot Clean
If you enjoyed having your windows open in the cool days of spring and early fall, you likely let in more than just the breeze. Dust and pollen can collect on furniture, curtains, ceiling fans, carpets and even artwork. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology has lots of tips for how to clean inside your home to reduce allergens.
Sort and Purge
When you change out your warm-weather wardrobe for your sweaters and boots, it’s the perfect time to get rid of things you no longer need or want. Also take a look around your home and see if there are other things you can stand to get rid of. Research has found that an excess of clutter in the home is linked to life dissatisfaction—purge some things and see if it helps lift your mood!
Get Prepared
Winter can come on quicker than you expect, so be sure you have the areas outside your home ready. Fall is the time to clean and store outdoor furniture, toys and equipment until you need them again next year. While you’re at it, check the exterior of your windows, doors and gutters so you don’t end up having to fix them when there is snow or ice on the ground. Winter weather can easily bring on slips and falls, and it helps to plan ahead to decrease your chances of injury!
Take Some Time
As you’re saying goodbye to summer and getting ready for winter, remember to enjoy this beautiful time of year. Give yourself permission to slow down, spend some time relaxing and connecting with your surroundings and your favorite people.
Cooling temperatures are a good reminder that the year is drawing to a close, so be sure to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician if you haven't had your annual physical.
