Winter Home Maintenance ❄️
Alright, folks, winter is coming–and while that’s great for fireside hot cocoa and cozy nights in, it’s a whole different story for your house. Snow, ice, and freezing temps have a way of finding every little crack, loose shingle, and uninsulated corner. Don’t wait until you’re Googling “how to unfreeze pipes at 2 a.m.” Instead, a little maintenance now can save you from big (and expensive) headaches later.
Make sure to scroll to the bottom of this post to download a printable copy of the checklist below!
Let’s be honest: winter can turn even the coziest of homes into a chaotic mess. Between the influx of holiday decorations, layers of cozy blankets, and the inevitable snow tracked in from outside, it’s easy for clutter to take over. But this season, let’s make it a point to reclaim our spaces! Imagine diving into winter maintenance as if it were a fun adventure–organizing that overstuffed closet, dusting off forgotten corners, and ensuring your home is both warm and welcoming. Not only will a little elbow grease go a long way in keeping your home comfortable, but it’ll also prepare you for the cozy gatherings ahead. So grab your favorite hot drink, put on some festive music, and let’s tackle this winter maintenance list together. Because nothing feels better than a home that’s as snug as a bug in a rug!
Winter Home Maintenance Checklist
General
– Dust hard-to-reach areas like ceiling fans and light fixtures.
– Vacuum all carpets and mop hard floors.
– Vacuum/wipe down furniture surfaces.
– Go through closets and storage areas; donate or discard items you no longer need.
– Adjust ceiling fans; change blade direction to clockwise. This will move the heated air down.
Kitchen
– Check the refrigerator for proper sealing; clean the coils.
– Clean the oven and range to ensure efficient cooking.
– Stock up on staples for winter meals and snacks.
– Clean and inspect the pantry; check for expired items and organize.
Bedrooms
– Flip your mattresses.
– Wash mattress covers.
– Wash sheets, comforters, etc.
– Declutter and organize.
Bathrooms/Laundry
– Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing.
– Check for leaks in sinks and toilets.
– Scrub tiles, tubs, and toilets; consider using a grout cleaner.
– Wash and disinfect laundry machines, including lint traps.
– Ensure you have enough toiletries, cleaning supplies, and laundry detergent.
Outdoors
– Turn off outside hoses and check for any leaks; use spigot covers to prevent faucets from freezing.
– Inspect roof; check for loose or missing shingles and clean gutters to prevent ice dams.
– Rake leaves and clear debris; cover delicate plants for winter.
– Store or winterize outdoor furniture.
– Ensure you have enough ice melt, sand, and snow shovels.
– Seal windows and doors.
Vehicles
– Ensure antifreeze, oil, and windshield washer fluid are at appropriate levels.
– Check tire pressure and tread depth; consider switching to winter tires if necessary.
– Remove any summer items from the vehicle and replace them with winter necessities; like blankets and an emergency kit.
Maintenance
– Inspect smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; replace batteries and test functionality.
– Inspect attic insulation for gaps and add more if needed.
– Replace or clean air filters and schedule a furnace inspection.
– Clean the chimney and inspect the fireplace for safe operation (if applicable).
– Charge portable chargers and backup batteries; have an emergency kit ready for power outages.
Get your FREE printable PDF version of the list above by clicking on the photo below or right here! Remember, every home and lifestyle is unique. There might be items on this list that don’t quite fit your needs! That’s why we’ve created a special section titled “Miscellaneous” just for you—perfect for adding those personalized touches that reflect your individual style. Download now and get started on “Winterizing” your home!
