Early Fall Cleaning Checklist: 10 Things to Do Before Heavy Rain

Fall is here in Kirkland. Rain picks up soon. Use this early fall home cleaning checklist to protect your home, reduce allergens, and stay ahead of the weather.

Updated October 2025.

Quick tip: If life is busy, book our recurring house cleaning services so you stay on track.

1) Clear gutters and downspouts

Leaves and needles clog drains fast. Scoop debris. Flush with a hose. Make sure downspouts drain 5 feet from the foundation. For technique and safety basics, see Consumer Reports’ guide to cleaning gutters.

2) Inspect the roof

clearing clogged gutter and flushing downspout on a Kirkland home

Look for missing shingles, moss, and cracked flashing. Trim back branches. Schedule repairs before the heavy rain. Small leaks turn into ceiling stains and mold.

3) Deep‑clean entryways

Entry mats trap dirt and water. Wash or replace them. Mop floors with a neutral cleaner. Wipe door frames and handles. Add a boot tray to contain mud.

4) Wash exterior windows and screens

washing exterior windows and screens during early fall cleaning in Kirkland

Remove screens. Rinse, soap, rinse. Squeegee glass from top to bottom. Clean tracks. More light improves mood during shorter days.

5) Service the dryer vent

Lint buildup is a fire hazard and reduces efficiency. Unplug the dryer. Disconnect the duct. Vacuum the vent and wall pipe. Replace crushed foil ducts with rigid metal. Learn why this matters in the NFPA’s guide to clothes dryer safety.

6) Refresh carpets, rugs, and soft furniture

Vacuum slow and thorough. Pre‑treat spots. Shampoo high‑traffic areas or book a pro. Clean throw pillows and blankets before indoor season begins. This reduces dust and pet dander.

7) Kitchen reset for soup season

Degrease the stove hood and filter. Clean the oven. Empty and wipe pantry shelves. Toss expired spices and snacks. Clean the fridge gaskets. Sanitize trash and recycle bins. A clean kitchen keeps fall cooking stress‑free.

8) Bathroom mold prevention

Scrub tile and grout. Reseal grout if it looks chalky. Run fans 20 minutes after showers. Check for slow leaks under sinks and around the toilet. The EPA explains moisture control and mold basics that protect indoor air.

9) HVAC, vents, and air quality

Change furnace filters. Vacuum supply and return grilles. Dust ceiling fan blades. If you use space heaters, clean them and check cords. Good airflow cuts dust and helps allergies during closed‑window months.

10) Declutter fall essentials

Make space for coats, boots, and backpacks. Donate summer gear you did not use. Set a simple weekly tidy plan so clutter stays low once school and work routines pick up.

Eco‑friendly options that work

You asked for safe products. We use plant‑based cleaners that cut grease and lift soil. We also offer non‑toxic home cleaning services near me options on request. If you want to DIY, stock distilled white vinegar, fragrance‑free dish soap, baking soda, microfiber cloths, and a HEPA vacuum. These staples handle most jobs without harsh fumes.

When to bring in pros

  • You want consistent results and more free time. Our recurring house cleaning services for busy professionals keep your home fresh every week or every two weeks.
  • Deep cleans ahead of hosting. Kitchens, baths, baseboards, doors, and high‑touch areas get extra attention.
  • You prefer greener products. Ask about our best eco‑friendly house cleaners in Kirkland package.

Set your schedule

Here is a simple monthly plan for October and November:

  • Week 1: Gutters, downspouts, roof check.
  • Week 2: Windows, screens, entryways.
  • Week 3: Dryer vent, carpets, rugs.
  • Week 4: Kitchen reset, bathrooms, HVAC, declutter.

Repeat touch‑ups as needed once the rain starts.

Helpful links

Ready for a head start?

If you want a fast jump on your fall home cleaning checklist Kirkland residents trust, we will help. Tell us your priorities. We will tailor a plan and match you with a consistent team. Book a one‑time deep clean or set up maintenance. You enjoy fall. We handle the mess.

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In a world where larger companies often overlook the personal touch, we are here to bring it back. Experience the peace of mind that comes with choosing a local, dedicated team that truly cares about your home and your community.

Ready to experience personalized, high-quality cleaning? Contact Kirkland House Cleaners today and let us take care of your home or business!

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