Autumn cleaning checklist: 5 areas that get your home ready for winter

Spring cleaning gets all the attention, but in Switzerland autumn cleaning may be even more useful. From October, the heating comes on, windows stay closed more often and you spend far more time indoors. Dust on radiators, grimy windows that let in less of the precious winter light and damp balcony furniture all become noticeable. This autumn cleaning checklist focuses on the five areas that make the biggest difference before winter.

Tick off each item on the checklist as you go – you do not need to do everything in one weekend.

Why autumn cleaning is worth it

In summer, windows are open and dust and humidity escape easily. In winter, the air in your flat circulates much less. Dust on radiators is swirled up by the rising warm air, and moisture from cooking, showering and drying laundry stays inside.

A thorough clean in October prepares your home for these conditions. It is also a good moment to spot small problems – a draughty window seal, a blocked balcony drain or the first signs of damp – before winter makes them worse.

1. Windows and frames

Short days mean every bit of daylight counts. Clean windows let in noticeably more light.

• Clean glass inside and out on a dry, overcast day – direct sun dries cleaning water too fast and leaves streaks.
• Wipe frames, seals and sills, and clear the drainage slots at the bottom of the frame.
• Check the rubber seals: clean, supple seals help keep draughts out.
• Remove dead insects and cobwebs from window reveals.

For streak-free results, see our guide on cleaning windows without streaks.

2. Blinds and shutters

External venetian blinds and roller shutters collect a summer's worth of dust, pollen and insects.

• Lower the venetian blinds fully and dust the slats with a soft brush or duster before wet cleaning.
• Wipe the slats with mild soapy water and a microfibre cloth.
• Brush out the guide rails.
• Check that the blinds run smoothly; report any damage to the property management before winter storms.

3. Radiators and ventilation

Radiators that have been off all summer collect a thick layer of dust between the fins. When the heating comes on, that dust gets warm, smells slightly burnt and circulates through the room.

1. Turn off the radiator and let it cool if it is already on.
2. Place a damp towel on the floor under the radiator.
3. Remove dust between the fins with a radiator brush or a vacuum with a narrow nozzle.
4. Wipe the surface and the wall behind it with a damp cloth.
5. Clean ventilation grilles in the bathroom and kitchen.

Our step-by-step guide explains how to clean radiators of different types.

4. Balcony and outdoor areas

Before the first frost, bring the balcony into winter mode.

• Sweep the floor and clear the drain of leaves – a blocked drain can cause water damage.
• Clean garden furniture and let it dry fully before covering or storing it.
• Wash or air seat cushions and store them in a dry place, not in a damp cellar.
• Clean the railing and any glass panels.
• Bring frost-sensitive plants inside or protect them.

5. Textiles for the cold months

In winter, you use blankets, cushions and curtains much more – and they collect dust.

• Wash curtains according to the care label, or at least shake and air them well.
• Wash throws, blankets and cushion covers before you bring them out.
• Air duvets and pillows on a dry day, or wash them if the label allows.
• Vacuum upholstered furniture and mattresses thoroughly.
• Swap summer clothes for winter clothes and check wool items for moth damage.

Getting airing right for winter

The last item on the checklist is not about cleaning at all: it is a good moment to set up your winter airing routine. EnergieSchweiz recommends airing three times a day for 5–10 minutes with fully opened windows instead of tilted ones. The Federal Office of Public Health adds that correct airing and heating are the basis for good indoor air and help against damp.

Your autumn cleaning checklist

Common autumn cleaning mistakes

• Cleaning windows in full sun: Streaks are almost guaranteed.
• Turning on the heating first: Dusty radiators spread dust and smells through the flat.
• Storing damp cushions: Mould and mildew are waiting in the cellar.
• Doing everything in one day: Split the work across two or three weekends and it stays manageable.
• Forgetting the balcony drain: Leaves block it quickly in October.

Priority Clean editorial teamOur cleaning team from Alberswil, Canton of Lucerne, shares hands-on experience from move-out, house, office and window cleaning across Central and Northwestern Switzerland.