Fall Home Refresh: Your September Deep Clean Guide
It's fall, and you may feel overwhelmed by cleaning tasks you've been putting off. If you've skipped a week or two, it can all feel like too much to handle. There’s no better time for a home refresh than the start of a new season.
Welcome to the Ember Months
September marks the beginning of the "ember months," those cozy transitional months ending in "b.e.r" that carry us from the end of summer into winter. As a realtor and cleaning expert, I've seen countless homes during this season, and I can assure you that fall is the perfect time to reset your living space.
If you’re like most homeowners, those ambitious cleaning goals you set in January may feel like a distant memory. You might have missed a weekly cleaning session in July and then another in August. Before you know it, that guest bathroom hasn't seen a deep clean since Easter, and the chandelier and baseboards have been collecting dust since spring.
Now is the time to tackle those tasks and revitalize your home for the months ahead!
Here’s the truth: You're not alone, and it’s never too late to start fresh.
Why September? There’s something magical about this month that makes it the perfect time for a home refresh. The oppressive heat of summer is fading, kids are back in school (giving parents some much-needed breathing room), and as cooler weather approaches, we naturally feel drawn to the idea of "nesting." This is one reason why the real estate market experiences a resurgence around this time. I often inform my clients that fall marks the return to serious real estate inquiries after the summer break.
Even if you’re not selling, treating your home with the same care and attention you would give it before listing it creates a sense of pride and comfort that enhances your daily life.
The Areas You've Likely Overlooked Since January
Let’s face it: there are spaces in our homes that desperately need attention. These often neglected areas include places like behind and under furniture, light fixtures and ceiling fans, baseboards and crown molding, inside appliances, windows and window sills, closets, and storage areas.
September Reset Strategy
Instead of overwhelming yourself with a big cleaning marathon over the weekend, which can lead to burnout and incomplete tasks, I suggest using the “September Segment System.” This approach allows you to tackle your cleaning in smaller, more manageable segments.
Week 1: The Foundation Reset
Begin with the essentials that impact every room. Start by vacuuming and mopping your floors, making sure to address any spots or stains you've been putting off. Next, dust from the top down by cleaning ceiling fans and light fixtures before moving on to the surfaces below. Finally, clean the windows and mirrors; streak-free surfaces will instantly brighten any space.
Week 2: The Kitchen Deep Dive
Your kitchen works harder than any other room in your home. Start by cleaning inside your appliances, such as the oven, microwave, and refrigerator (including the area behind the refrigerator). Next, use degreasing wipes to clean the cabinet fronts and hardware, removing grease and fingerprints. Finally, don’t forget to clean the often-overlooked spots, such as the top of the refrigerator, inside the dishwasher filter, and the range hood.
Week 3: Bathrooms and Bedrooms
These personal spaces deserve special attention. First, clean the buildup of stains on the grout and tiles. Second, pay attention to the areas behind the toilet and sink, as these are typically spots that guests notice but we often overlook. Lastly, wash comforters, pillows, and any other items that don’t receive weekly attention to refresh the bedding.
Week 4: Storage and Organization
Conclude the month by implementing systems that will help prevent future overwhelm. Start with a closet evaluation to identify items that haven’t been worn since last fall. Next, organize storage in areas such as the garage, basement, or attic. Finally, either file or dispose of any paper piles that need proper management.
The Real Estate Connection
As a realtor, I have walked through thousands of homes, and here’s what I have learned: homes that are clean and organized not only look better, but they also feel better to live in. The shift in energy is real and immediate. When potential buyers enter a well-maintained home, they can easily envision themselves living there. This same principle applies to your everyday life. After a long day, when you step into your clean and organized space, it sends a signal to your brain that you are in a safe, peaceful environment where you are in control.
September Challenge
I challenge you to focus on one specific area that has been bothering you since the beginning of the year. It could be that junk drawer in the kitchen, the guest bathroom that only gets attention when company is coming, or the pile of papers on your desk that has reached historical status. Start with that area; spend 20 minutes on it this weekend and experience the satisfaction of completing the task and the following mental clarity.
The Bigger Picture
As someone who helps people buy and sell homes, I witness the emotional connection between our living spaces and our well-being every day. A clean, organized home isn't about achieving perfection or impressing others; it's about creating a space that fosters our best lives.
September gives us the opportunity to start over, allowing us to forgive ourselves for any summer cleaning tasks we may have neglected. It's the perfect time to create the cozy, clean haven we desire as we transition into the busy fall and holiday seasons. Our home is our sanctuary. It’s where we recharge, make memories, and live our daily lives. It deserves our attention, just as we do, so grab your favorite cleaning playlist, open the windows to welcome in the crisp fall air, and give yourself the gift of a fresh start. Your future self and your home will both thank you.
Are you ready to refresh your home this September but unsure where to begin? As your local real estate expert and cleaning enthusiast, I’m here to guide you. Whether you’re getting your home ready for the market or simply looking to rekindle your love for your space, feel free to reach out for personalized tips and strategies.
Let’s work together to make your home the sanctuary it’s meant to be.