The weather is cooling off, and before long, holiday season will be here. Celebrations with family and friends will warm your heart and strengthen your relationships. But if you’re planning on entertaining this holiday season, you’ll want to start preparing your home sooner, rather than later.

Clean the Windows

After a summer of dust, dirt, and insect attacks, your windows could probably use some attention. Wipe out the tracks and sashes, and give the glass a thorough cleaning with an ammonia-based cleaner. You’ll be surprised how much cleaner your whole home looks once the windows are clean. Your guests will instantly notice the crystal-clear glass and grime-free tracks.

Maintain the HVAC System

Foul or dusty odors can quickly ruin a holiday dinner. Maintaining your HVAC system will help get rid of foul odors. Change the air filter, preferably to a thick cotton one that catches smaller debris than a standard fiberglass filter. Vacuum out the vent covers, and consider having your ducts professionally cleaned.

Shampoo the Carpets

Carpets can also harbor unwanted odors. With holiday guests possibly sitting on the floor to play games and socialize, you’ll want those carpets clean. Buy or rent a carpet shampooer, and wash the carpets while it is still warm enough to open the windows. This will help ventilate the home so the carpets dry faster and don’t mold.

Survey Your Decorations

Now is the perfect time to unpack your decorations and sort through them. Set aside any that are broken or no longer your taste. If they are in good shape, you can donate them to charity. This is the perfect time of year to make such a donation since the decorations’ new owners can use them over the coming holidays. Make a list of decorations you want to purchase before the holiday season is in full swing.

Clean the Fireplace

Sitting around the fire is a great way to end a holiday celebration with friends. However, fireplaces can be hazardous if they are not safely maintained. Have a professional come look over your chimney for signs of damage or blockages. Make sure you have a place a few feet from the fireplace to store wood, and check that you have a working smoke detector and carbon monoxide alarm on every floor of your home.

Fix the Walkways

The holiday season does not always bring the nicest weather. The last thing you want is for one of your guests to trip or slip on the walkway on their way into your home. Fix any bucked or cracked concrete, and remove any obstructions from the walkway. Also stock up on deicing solutions so you can keep the walkway ice-free during cold weather.

Preparing for the holiday season can be quite the endeavor! If you are feeling overwhelmed, contact Hassle Free Home Services. Our home cleaning and maintenance services can simplify your life so you have more time left to relax and celebrate.