Fall is the perfect time to reset your living space. With more time spent indoors during the colder months, giving your apartment a thorough seasonal clean can make your home feel fresher, more organized and ready for cozy nights in. Here's your ultimate fall cleaning checklist, breaking it down room by room to make things more manageable– maybe even a little enjoyable.

Refresh Your Entryway

Your entryway is the first thing you see when you walk into your apartment, and during fall, it becomes a hub for wet shoes, jackets and umbrellas. Start by shaking out or replacing your doormat to get rid of any lingering summer dirt. Wipe down the front door and doorframe, which often get overlooked. If space allows, set up a boot tray and add some storage for cold-weather accessories like hats and gloves. Keeping this area clean and clutter-free sets the tone for the rest of your space.

Deep Clean the Kitchen

Fall tends to bring more time spent in the kitchen with home-cooked meals, making it a good time to give your kitchen a deep clean. Begin by checking your fridge and pantry for expired items, then wipe down the shelves (see our 5-step method for a spotless fridge here). Cleaning your oven and stovetop can help remove any built-up grease from summer cooking. Run your dishwasher with a cleaning cycle or a vinegar rinse to eliminate odors. Lastly, take a moment to wipe down cabinet fronts and clean around and beneath your small appliances.

Tidy up the Living Room

Your living room likely becomes the go-to spot for relaxing in fall, so it’s worth putting in a bit of effort to freshen it up. Vacuum the couch cushions and consider rotating them to even out wear. Dust can build up quickly on electronics and shelving, so give those surfaces a good wipe-down. Wash any throw blankets or pillow covers you've had out all summer, and consider switching them with warmer, cozier textures. Cleaning your windows can also help maximize the natural light during shorter days.

Update Your Bedroom for Cooler Nights

Fall is the perfect time to swap your lightweight summer bedding for warmer options like flannel sheets or a heavier duvet. Give your mattress a quick vacuum and rotate it if needed. This is also a great opportunity to reorganize your closet– store away summer clothes and bring your sweaters and outerwear to the front. Don’t forget to dust around nightstands and lamps, and under the bed. A clean and cozy bedroom can make the seasonal transition feel extra comforting. If you have hard floors, a nice area rug under the bed can help bring warmth to the room as temperatures drop.

Bathroom Touch-Ups

Even if your bathroom seems clean at a glance, fall is a good time to freshen things up and tackle any missed details. Scrub the sink, toilet and tub, and don’t forget to clean or replace the shower curtain liner if it’s looking dingy. Wipe down mirrors, light fixtures and the bathroom fan vent if accessible. Reorganize your drawers or medicine cabinet, tossing out any expired products. With cooler, drier air on the way, it's also a good idea to stock up on moisturizing essentials. If your towels are starting to feel worn or thin, consider getting a set of soft, plush replacements. Nothing beats wrapping yourself in a big, fluffy towel right after a shower in the colder months.

Don’t Forget Seasonal Tasks

A few seasonal maintenance chores can make a big difference in how comfortable your apartment feels. If your heating system uses filters you can access, consider replacing or cleaning them. Vacuum vents or baseboard heaters to remove dust buildup. It’s also a smart time to test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries– ask your property manager to assist with this if needed. If you have balcony furniture or plants, think about storing or covering them to protect from precipitation. Your property management team may handle some of these tasks, but it's always good to check and stay on top of what’s in your control.

Tackle each area one at a time, light yourself a candle and enjoy the satisfaction of a refreshed home this fall.