As the leaves change color and temperatures drop, we spend more time indoors. This seasonal shift is the perfect time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead.

Whether you’re looking to stay healthy, keep cozy or simply enjoy a more comfortable space, there are plenty of steps you can take. With the help of Scott Olson, MD, a pediatric infectious disease specialist with Banner Children’s, we share five tips to prepare your home for fall and winter.

1. Deep clean your home

We’ve all heard about spring cleaning, but fall is another season to deep clean your home. During the fall and winter, respiratory illnesses like colds, the flu and COVID-19 are more common.

“Respiratory illnesses can be spread through contaminated surfaces, making regular cleaning an important preventive measure,” Dr. Olson said. “These efforts are particularly useful during periods of community outbreaks or if you have vulnerable individuals, like the elderly or those with chronic health conditions, at home.”

Focus on high-touch areas: Clean frequently touched surfaces, like doorknobs, light switches, remote controls and countertops. Regularly disinfect these areas to reduce the risk of illnesses spreading.

Clean one area at a time: You don’t have to deep clean your entire home in a day. Tackle one room or area each weekend. Here are some ideas on areas to clean:

  • Windows and doors: Dust and clean these to ensure they work well and don’t spread dust into the air.
  • Kitchen: Deep clean appliances, including the oven, refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave. Clean countertops, sinks and backsplashes to remove food particles and germs.
  • Bedrooms: Wash all pillows, mattress covers and drapes and flip mattresses.
  • Bathrooms: Replace all toothbrushes or toothbrush heads that are three months old or older. Check the expiration dates on your medications. Scrub tiles, grout, fixtures and faucets. Clean mirrors and make sure there’s no mold or mildew in shower areas.
  • Closets: Organize and clean out closets, especially if you’re switching out seasonal clothing.
  • Carpets and furniture: Vacuum and deep clean carpets, rugs, sofas and chairs. Consider professional cleaning, if needed.
  • Baseboards and trim: Dust and wipe down baseboards, crown molding and trim to remove built-up dirt.

Involve the family: Seasonal cleaning can be an excellent opportunity to involve the entire family. “Assign age-appropriate tasks to children, like dusting or organizing toys and make it a fun activity,” Dr. Olson said. This not only helps keep the home clean but also teaches valuable life skills.

2. Maintain indoor air quality

Change HVAC air filters: Dr. Olson advised changing HVAC air filters before the winter season. “These filters help remove infectious agents, including respiratory viruses, from the air,” he said.

Regular maintenance ensures that your HVAC system works appropriately, providing clean air throughout your home.

Use air purifiers: In addition to the HVAC system, consider using portable indoor air cleaners to improve air quality. These devices can be especially helpful in homes with pets, allergies or during flu season.

Humidify your home: In winter, when indoor air tends to be drier, a humidifier adds moisture to the air. This helps prevent dryness, which can irritate your skin, throat and respiratory passages. Clean the humidifier regularly to keep it from growing mold and bacteria.

3. Prepare for cold and flu season

Boost immunity: Strengthen your immune system by maintaining a balanced diet, getting regular exercise and getting enough quality sleep. Foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as citrus fruits, leafy greens and nuts, can help support immune health.

Practice good hygiene: “Personal hygiene (regular hand washing) and respiratory etiquette (covering coughs and sneezes; washing your hands; wearing a mask when you have cold or flu symptoms) are important efforts to prevent the spread of infection,” Dr. Olson said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that handwashing education in communities reduces diarrhea from illness by 23% to 40% and respiratory infections like colds by 16% to 21%.

Stay up-to-date on vaccinations: Ensure that everyone in your household is up to date on flu shots and other necessary vaccinations. This simple measure can prevent illness and protect vulnerable individuals.

4. Create a cozy and comfortable living space

Adjust lighting: As the days get shorter, make the most of natural light during the day and use warm, soft lighting in the evenings. Consider dimmable lights or smart bulbs to create a cozy atmosphere that can be adjusted to your preference.

Warm up your home: Seal drafts around windows and doors to keep your home warm. Use weather stripping and door sweeps to prevent cold air from entering. If you have a fireplace, ensure it’s clean and safe.

Seasonal décor: Add a touch of fall and winter charm to your home. Cozy blankets, throw pillows and scented candles can make your space feel warm and inviting.

5. Safety precautions

Inspect heating system: Have a professional inspect your furnace, boiler or heat pump before the cold weather sets in. Regular maintenance ensures your heating system works safely and efficiently.

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Ensure all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors work correctly. Replace batteries if needed and test them regularly. “These devices protect your family from fire and carbon monoxide poisoning,” Dr. Olson said.

Prepare for power outages: Winter storms can cause power outages, so have an emergency kit ready. Include items like flashlights, extra blankets, batteries, a first aid kit and non-perishable food.

Takeaway

As the seasons change and cooler weather sets in, preparing your home to stay healthy and cozy is important. With these five steps, you can create a safer and more comfortable environment this fall and winter.

By Regan Olsson , Contributing Writer