While it may have been a couple of years (or a couple of decades) since most of us were last in school, September still carries that unmistakable feeling of a fresh start – like a mini New Year. The days are shortening, the air is crisper and nature is subtly signalling that change is on the horizon. It’s the perfect opportunity to refresh our homes, giving them a clean slate and a lighter, more organised feel as we head into the cooler months.
There are a number of household tasks best tackled before the weather changes for good. Some are purely aesthetic, helping your home look and feel its best, while others are practical, keeping your living space safer and preventing costly problems down the line. From sprucing up your car to clearing gutters, these jobs are worth the effort – they protect your home, safeguard your family and save you money by avoiding avoidable repairs.
Here are the top cleaning tasks to tackle this September, so you can embrace the new season with a fresher, tidier home.
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1. Gutters
As much as it pains me to say, you’ve probably noticed the leaves are starting to change, signalling the end of summer and the arrival of autumn. That makes September the ideal time to clear your gutters, ready for the inevitable onslaught of leaves and debris. Left unchecked, clogged gutters can cause water to back up onto your roof, leaks around windows and even foundation damage. With autumn storms often bringing heavier rain, a little preventative cleaning now can save a lot of hassle (and expense) later.
Work safely with a sturdy ladder, gloves and, ideally, someone to spot you. Use a small plastic scoop, trowel, or even your hands to remove leaves and dirt, then flush the gutters with a hose to clear finer debris. This is also a good moment to check flow through the downpipes and spot any sagging sections, leaky joints, or pipes pulling away from the house. Fixing these early prevents bigger repairs. And if your home is surrounded by trees, fitting gutter guards can help cut down on future maintenance.
2. Windows
For fellow late-season pollen sufferers, September is the perfect time to give your windows a proper clean, clearing away that final dose of irritation. Plus, clearer glass lets in more of that crisp golden autumn light, making the most of the shorter days ahead.
Start by vacuuming or brushing frames, sills and tracks to stop loose dirt turning into muddy streaks. Spray generously with a glass cleaner, or try a cheaper, natural option: a mix of one part white vinegar to nine parts water. Wipe from top to bottom using a clean microfibre cloth, moving in circular motions to prevent drips and streaks. Aim for an overcast day or shaded windows, as direct sun dries the solution too fast, leaving smudges. Avoid using paper towels as they tend to shed lint; instead, finish with microfibre cloths, a chamois leather, or even crumpled newspaper for a streak-free shine.
3. Wardrobe
With summer’s heat fading, it’s time to rotate out lightweight clothes and bring in cosy jumpers, jackets, and boots. Not only does this make your daily routine easier, but it’s also an opportunity to declutter and reassess what you actually wear.
Start by removing everything from your wardrobes and drawers. Sort items into four piles: keep, donate, repair or sell. Clothes you haven’t worn all summer are prime candidates for donation, freeing up space for the season ahead. Then give your wardrobe itself a clean: vacuum or sweep shelves, wipe down rails, and dust corners. This will also help with preventing any pesky wardrobe moths.
Before rehanging and folding items, check your jumpers and jackets for any signs of moths or damage, and consider laundering or dry-cleaning seasonal favourites before you pop them back in. Equally, make sure to wash your summer clothes before storing them away long-term – this will help avoid any pest-related misery come May. For boots and shoes, wipe off dirt, polish leather and store summer sandals in boxes or breathable bags to protect them until next year.
4. Patio furniture and outdoor gear
September is the ideal time to prepare outdoor spaces for the colder months. We all know that grim feeling of unwrapping your garden sofa or sun lounger as soon as the weather warms up, only to find them green, rusty, and playing host to a colony of spiders—so let’s avoid that, shall we?
Start by brushing away leaves, dirt, and cobwebs using a bristle brush or the brush attachment on your vacuum. For metal or plastic furniture, a simple mix of warm water and mild detergent usually does the trick, while wooden pieces benefit from a gentle scrub and a protective wood oil or sealant. Cushions and fabric items should be washed or spot-cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then stored in a dry, ventilated space to prevent damp and mildew. This keeps your garden looking tidy and extends the life of your furniture.
Don’t forget outdoor equipment and summer sports gear. Disinfect, rinse and dry items such as bicycles, garden tools, and balls before storing them, and inspect for any repairs or maintenance needed. A little attention now ensures your gear stays in good condition and is ready for next spring.
5. Carpets and rugs
The start of the new school year is a great reminder to give your carpets a fresh start too. Summer often leaves behind dust, sand, pollen, and other debris, which can accumulate unnoticed and affect both appearance and air quality. If you have pets this one is especially important, as you’ll want to get through the worst of the muck before shedding season starts this autumn, when their new winter coats start coming in.
Start by vacuuming thoroughly, moving furniture if possible to reach hidden corners. Pay special attention to high-traffic areas and edges where dust tends to collect. For a deeper clean, consider using a carpet shampooer, a carpet cleaner, or even hiring professional cleaning services to remove stubborn stains. Rugs, particularly smaller or delicate ones, can be shaken out, beaten gently, or cleaned with a suitable cleaner—just make sure to check the care label.
Also, inspect carpets for any wear or damage. Addressing small issues now—like fraying edges or loose threads – prevents them from worsening over autumn and winter. A clean carpet not only brightens your home but also helps maintain a healthier indoor environment for those upcoming cosy nights in.
6. Your car
Be honest – when was the last time you gave your car a proper freshen-up? September is a great time to clean and prep your vehicle for school runs and the cooler months ahead. Summer dust, pollen and road grit can build up over time, affecting both appearance and performance.
Start with a thorough exterior wash, paying attention to wheels and undercarriage. Clean the interior by vacuuming carpets, seats, and mats and wipe down dashboards and other surfaces with an antibacterial spray, options such as Method’s multi purpose cleaner, pink grapefruit are great for an added scent boost. Just check before using any cleaner that it's suitable for the desired surface. Floor mats that have seen heavy summer use should be checked and replaced if needed.
It’s also wise to top up essential fluids such as windscreen washer liquid, oil, and coolant, and check tyre pressure before the wetter autumn months set in. Finally, ensure your car’s emergency kit is stocked with essentials like a torch, blanket, and first-aid supplies. A little maintenance now keeps your vehicle safe, comfortable, and ready for long autumn drives.
7. Air purifiers
If you’ve been relying on your air purifier all summer to combat pollen, dust, and allergens, September is the perfect time to give it a thorough clean before storing it for the colder months. Proper maintenance now will ensure it’s ready and in good condition for next spring.
Start by unplugging the unit and following the manufacturer’s instructions. Most filters can be vacuumed or gently rinsed, while the exterior should be wiped down to remove dust and grime. Replace any HEPA or carbon filters that are worn or clogged, as this keeps your purifier functioning effectively for when you need it again.
Once cleaned, store your air purifier in a dry, ventilated space, ideally covered to keep out dust. Taking a little time now protects your appliance, prolongs its lifespan, and ensures that next year you can start the allergy season with fresh, efficient air filtration.
