So as the temperatures cool, what can you do to get your home ready for winter?
“Winter cleaning isn’t always super glamorous, unfortunately, but it’s worth it to create a home you enjoy spending time in,” viral cleaning expert Brit Cunningham says.
She says before picking up the label maker or colour-coding your cupboards, it’s important to address moisture control, ventilation and heating.
“That might mean cleaning a heat pump filter, making sure extractor fans are actually extracting, checking a home ventilation system or simply dusting down heaters and dehumidifiers to ensure they’re clean and running efficiently.
“If you have a fireplace, it’s important to arrange an annual chimney sweep before you plan to use it.”
Cunningham says the areas that need the most attention over winter are those that work the hardest during the cold season: entranceways, heat pumps, gutters, window sills, mattresses, couches, wardrobes, and bathrooms and wet areas.
“They’re not always the most exciting jobs on the list, but a little TLC now will help us prepare for whatever weather lies ahead and keep our homes (and hopefully, us) healthy all season long.”
She recommends five steps to making sure your home does just that.
1. Habit stacking your morning coffee with a moisture reset
Cunningham knows from experience what happens when moisture becomes a burden in your home.
“We’re currently renovating a mid-century home, so mould and dampness are battles I’m super familiar with. If it’s within your budget, things like double glazing and home ventilation systems will make a huge difference.”
If those aren’t options, and your windows hold moisture in the morning, she says the key is to get rid of it as soon as you wake up.
“Otherwise, it’ll spend the day feeding the dampness we’re trying to get rid of. A window vac, or squeegee and microfibre, makes quick work of it. Bonus points if you’re able to air out the house at any stage during the day – fresh air works wonders when it comes to maintaining a healthy home.”
2. Tackle the mould and service your unsung heroes
It’s important to get on top of mould and mildew before it has a chance to spread.
First, Cunningham says, check for condensation and mould around window frames, bathrooms, ceilings, grout lines and wardrobes, and nip any issues in the bud before they have a chance to spread.
“Aside from the usual suspects, [mould] can pop up in really unexpected places too – the back of a pantry, beneath the sink, on window panes, in your bathroom cabinets. I’ve even found mould in a hot water cupboard once – the last place you’d expect.”
She says it’s helpful to ensure appliances are running safely and efficiently.
“Washers, dryers, heaters, dehumidifiers, extractor fans – they really are the unsung heroes of winter, and a little maintenance now can make a big difference to the home’s comfort and future power bills.”
With all the appliances running, it’s a great time to check your smoke alarms too.
3. Prepare for rain
The goal here is simple: when the weather packs in, get the water as far away from your house as possible.
“We often focus on moisture inside, but the moisture outside matters a lot too. Keep the gutters, drains and downpipes clear of leaves and debris,” she says.
“If you notice areas that are prone to flooding or holding water, consider your drainage options.”
4. Stop winter at the front door
Cunningham says one of her winter pet peeves is shoes traipsing mud through the front door or being dumped in the entranceway.
“Before you know it, you’ve got dirt, leaves and questionable winter debris making their way through the rest of the house.
“A decent doormat, somewhere for shoes to live and a spot for jackets and umbrellas can help manage the reality of a wet winter.”
5. Prepare your cosiest items
We spend more time in our homes’ most comfortable spots over winter, so now is a good time to get them ready for use.
“Mattresses, couches, pet bedding, throw blankets and dressing gowns can all accumulate dust, odours and everyday grime, so it’s worth giving them a little extra attention.”
Cunningham says a quick vacuum of large items and a wash of the soft furnishings can make a big difference – bonus points if you reach for a laundry sanitiser or your machine has a UV wash cycle.
If you share your home with pets, who spend more time indoors over winter, don’t forget their spaces.
“Couple that with a warm house, and it’s a recipe for a pet-scented aromatherapy experience nobody asked for. If you get a sunny day, take the opportunity to air out their beds and wash any removable covers.”
