December 5, 2024

12 Winter Cleaning Tips for a Cozy Home

With the city’s bustling lifestyle and unpredictable winter weather, there’s still one constant you can enjoy — your clean and serene home. Winter cleaning might not get the same hype as spring cleaning, but it’s just as crucial. Firstly, it is about the indoor air quality. With everyone spending more time inside, high-touch and high-traffic areas can become a breeding ground for clutter, allergens, and germs. Secondly, a clean and organized home helps reduce holiday stress (holidays, we love you, but you bring so much havoc into our lives!). In this post, we’ll explore the key areas to focus on during your winter cleaning routine, from tackling high-traffic areas to getting your home holiday-ready. Let’s get started!

1. Disinfect high-touch surfaces

Areas like doorknobs, light switches, countertops, and remote controls, can harbor germs and bacteria. To effectively disinfect these surfaces, use an EPA-registered disinfectant and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Pay special attention to frequently touched items like your phone and keyboard.

• Disinfect electronics. Clean your phone, tablet, and keyboard regularly with a disinfectant wipe.
• Sanitize your toothbrush holder weekly with hot, soapy water.
• Clean kitchen sponges and dishcloths frequently by washing them regularly in the dishwasher (hot cycle).
• Disinfect your cleaning supplies (sponges, mops, clothes, etc.) by soaking them in a disinfecting solution.  

2. Refresh your bedding

A clean and cozy bed is essential for a good night’s sleep, especially during the colder months. Start by deep cleaning your mattress, pillows, comforters, and duvets. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and drying these items. Consider using allergen-proof covers for mattresses and pillows to reduce dust mites and other allergens.

Don’t forget about your headboard and bed frame. Dust and grime can accumulate on these surfaces, so be sure to clean them regularly. Vacuum upholstered headboards and wipe down wooden frames with a damp cloth. If your mattress is designed for flipping or rotating, do so to extend its lifespan and ensure even wear.

3. Maintain your air and dryer vents

Increased indoor time highlights the importance of clean air. A dirty HVAC system can circulate allergens, dust, and other pollutants throughout your home. Also, a clogged system has to work harder to heat or cool your home, leading to higher energy bills. How do you clean your air ducts? Change air filters regularly (at least once a season if you or your family member have an allergy). Opt for high-quality filters that can capture fine particles. Vacuum clean vents and registers to ensure optimal airflow. Removing dust and debris can help prevent the spread of allergens and improve the overall efficiency of your HVAC system.

4. Inspect and maintain your fireplace

A well-maintained fireplace can be the heart of your winter home. Before you light that first fire, ensure your chimney is clean and safe:

• Schedule a professional chimney sweep to inspect your chimney and remove any creosote buildup. (Creosote is a highly flammable substance that can accumulate over time, increasing the risk of chimney fires.)
• Maintain the fireplace. Clean the firebox, mantel, and hearth to remove ash, soot, and debris.
• Ensure the damper opens and closes smoothly to control airflow and prevent drafts.
• Inspect the firebox for any cracks or damage that may need repair.

5. Give your carpets and rugs a good clean

Carpets and rugs can trap dirt, dust, and allergens, especially during the winter months when snow and mud are being tracked in. To ensure a healthy and inviting space, consider these tips:

• Regular vacuuming. Frequent vacuuming is essential to remove dirt and debris. Pay special attention to high-traffic areas and corners.
• Deep carpet cleaning (at least once a season). Opt for steam cleaning as an effective way to eliminate dirt, bacteria, and allergens.
• Spot cleaning. Address spills and stains promptly to prevent them from setting in. Use a cleaning solution appropriate for your carpet type and blot the stain gently.
• Professional cleaning. Stubborn stains or heavily soiled carpets can be a disappointment during the holiday season but don’t worry. We have all the necessary equipment and skills to restore your items before your guests arrive.

6. Dust ceiling fans

Ceiling fans can quickly become dust collectors, especially during the winter months when they’re not in constant use. To clean them, you’ll need an old pillowcase or a microfiber cloth. Slip an old pillowcase over each fan blade, then gently pull the pillowcase off to trap the dust. Or, use a wet microfiber cloth to wipe down the fan blades and the fan’s housing. Dust the light kit and replace the bulb if needed.

Other often neglected items that easily trap dust in winter are trims and baseboards. A wet microfiber cloth helps you remove dust carefully without sending it back into the air.  

7. Clean curtains and windows

As the days grow shorter and the nights grow longer, maintaining clean windows can make a significant difference in your home’s ambiance. Clean windows not only allow for maximum natural light but also provide a clear view of the winter wonderland outside.

Cleaning curtains and drapes:

• Check care labels before cleaning. Some fabrics can be machine-washed, while others may require professional cleaning.
• Gentle cleaning. For delicate fabrics, a gentle hand wash or dry cleaning is recommended.
• Vacuum regularly. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust and allergens from your curtains and drapes.

Cleaning windows:

• Prep work. Remove any window treatments, such as blinds or curtains, before cleaning.
• Clean the frames. Wipe down the window frames with a damp microfiber cloth to remove dust and grime.
• Clean the glass. Use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to clean the glass. For stubborn stains, you may need to use a scraper.
• Dry the glass. Use a squeegee to remove excess cleaning solution and prevent water spots.

8. Declutter and get rid of old seasonal decor

As the holiday season approaches, our homes often become cluttered with decorations, gifts, and seasonal items. To make room for them, get rid of some old stuff first. Take time to sort through your belongings, donate unwanted items, and create a more organized and inviting home. Inspect your family’s fall clothes and wash and put away items you won’t need until spring. Start decluttering from your mudroom because your guests will need a place for their boots and coats. Also, inspect your pantry and discard expired items to make room for new seasonal ingredients.    

9. Maintain gutters

Gutters are probably the last thing you want to think about this winter, but you should. Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, roof leaks, and foundation problems. To protect your home from water damage, maintain your gutter system before the cold arrives:

• Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from your gutters to ensure proper water flow.
• Check for any cracks, holes, or sagging in your gutters and downspouts. Repair any damage promptly.
• Gutter guards can help prevent debris from clogging your gutters, reducing the need for frequent cleaning.

10. Spruce your garage

As winter approaches, it’s the perfect time to give your garage a deep clean and organize its contents. A well-organized garage can make your life easier, whether you’re storing holiday decorations, gardening tools, or winter sports equipment.

• Organize. Use shelves, bins, and hooks to organize your belongings. Group similar items together and label storage containers for easy access.
• Clean the floor. Sweep, mop, or pressure wash the garage floor to remove dirt, grime, and oil stains.
• Seal the gaps. Check the weatherstripping around the garage door and windows to prevent drafts and pests, which are now seeking a warmer place to survive.
• Maintain garage door. Ensure your garage door is functioning properly and lubricate the moving parts.

11. Clean outdoor furniture

As the winter chill sets in, it’s time to bid farewell to your outdoor oasis. But before you do, it’s important to properly clean and store your outdoor furniture to ensure it lasts for years to come:

• Thorough cleaning. Remove any dirt, debris, or mildew from your furniture using a gentle cleaning solution and a soft brush.
• Drying. Ensure your furniture is completely dry before storing it. Damp furniture can lead to mold and mildew growth.
• Protective covers. Invest in high-quality, waterproof covers to shield your furniture from the harsh winter elements.
• Indoor storage. If possible, store your furniture indoors in a dry, climate-controlled environment.
• Outdoor storage. If outdoor storage is necessary, elevate your furniture off the ground to prevent moisture damage.

12. Deep clean your fridge

The holidays are coming, and you may need an extra place in your fridge to harbor delicacies and special treats. So you cannot postpone the grand refrigerator cleaning any more:

• Remove all items, including shelves and drawers.
• Defrost if necessary.
• Wipe down all surfaces with warm, soapy water or a vinegar cleaner (mix vinegar with water in a 1:1 ratio in a spray bottle).
• Return only fresh items, categorizing them for easy access.

These winter cleaning tips will help you make your home healthier, more organized, and more inviting. However, if adding cleaning to your holiday to-do list overwhelms you, don’t let it steal your joy! Our team of expert cleaners can handle every aspect of your winter cleaning, from deep cleaning carpets and upholstery to organizing your closets and decluttering your space. Contact White Glove Cleaner today for a free quote and experience the difference a professional cleaning service can make.