As the long, sunny days start to fade and the evenings cool down, many homeowners begin to shift their focus indoors. The end of summer is the perfect time to clean your home, both inside and out, thoroughly. You’ve probably hosted barbecues, tracked in grass, opened your windows for fresh air, and enjoyed the outdoors as much as possible, but all of that activity leaves behind dirt, dust, and wear. A proper end-of-summer cleaning refreshes your living space and sets you up for a smooth transition into fall.
End-of-Summer Cleaning Guide
Start with the Kitchen
Summer cooking is tough on your kitchen, especially if you’ve been grilling, prepping salads, and entertaining guests. Begin by giving your refrigerator a complete clean-out. Toss expired condiments and old leftovers, then wipe down the shelves and drawers. Heat and humidity make food odors more noticeable, so freshening your fridge now will help.
Dry goods sometimes get pushed to the back and forgotten, and pests are most likely to sneak in during summer. Pull everything out, wipe down the shelves, and reorganize. While in the kitchen, give your oven and stovetop a deep clean. The splatters and grease that build up during the summer stick around, and you’ll be grateful for a fresh start as cooler weather makes baking and hearty meals more appealing.
Refresh Your Living Spaces
Summer tends to bring in extra dust, pollen, and pet dander. If you’ve had the windows open, your home has likely collected more dirt than usual. Vacuum carpets thoroughly, making multiple passes in high-traffic areas. If possible, schedule a professional carpet cleaning to remove the allergens and grime that regular vacuuming can’t reach.
Sofas, chairs, and cushions trap sweat and odors during hot months. A simple steam clean or upholstery-safe spray will freshen them up. Wash or vacuum curtains with an upholstery attachment. You’ll be amazed at how much cleaner your space feels when fabrics are refreshed.
Focus on Bedrooms
Summer heat makes bedrooms feel stuffy, and sweat seeps into mattresses and bedding. Strip your bed completely, including mattress protectors and pillow covers, and wash everything well. Rotate or flip your mattress and vacuum it to remove dust mites.
End-of-summer cleaning also benefits closets. Pack away lightweight clothes you won’t need, donate items you no longer wear, and make room for the bulkier fall layers. This helps reduce clutter and makes your daily routine easier.
Give Bathrooms Extra Care
Humidity is at its peak in the summer, making bathrooms prime spots for mold and mildew. Scrub grout, tile, and shower doors thoroughly. Check behind toilets and under sinks for any hidden moisture or early signs of mold. Replace or wash shower curtains and liners since they tend to collect soap scum and mildew over the summer.
You should also wash bathroom rugs and replace toothbrushes if it’s been a few months since you last did so. These small steps go a long way toward keeping the bathroom fresh and hygienic.
Don’t Forget the Outdoors
Your outdoor spaces deserve attention, too. Sweep porches and decks to remove leaves, dirt, and spider webs. Wipe down patio furniture and cushions before storing them or covering them for the season. If you have a grill, give it a full cleaning to remove grease and food residue—this will help it last longer and prevent unpleasant surprises next summer.
Outdoor windows also get especially grimy during summer storms. Wash them inside and out to enjoy crystal-clear views as the seasons change.
Reset for the Season Ahead
A thorough end-of-summer cleaning sets the stage for a smooth transition into fall. By tackling dust, clutter, and high-traffic areas now, your home will feel fresher, healthier, and easier to maintain. Take action today and enjoy a cleaner, more comfortable space all season long.
End-of-Summer Cleaning: FAQs
Do I need to hire a professional for end-of-summer cleaning?
Not necessarily. Many tasks can be handled on your own with some time and effort. However, professionals are beneficial for carpets, upholstery, or large outdoor clean-ups.
How is end-of-summer cleaning different from spring-cleaning?
Spring-cleaning is about shaking off winter’s dust and stale air, while end-of-summer cleaning prepares your home for cooler weather. You’ll focus more on refreshing fabrics, addressing humidity-related issues, and organizing for the seasonal change.
When should I start end-of-summer cleaning?
The best time is late August through early September, before the busy fall season begins. That way, you’ll feel prepared as routines shift and temperatures drop.
Anderson Home Inspections offers home inspections in Central Ohio. Contact us to schedule our services.