October is officially here! A time where the temperatures drop, the clocks go back and the nights get longer. For some, it marks the start of cosy season, comfort food and snuggly new fashion trends, but for us here at Good Housekeeping, it marks a new season of cleaning jobs.
As the seasons change, so does our cleaning to-do list. The colder, wetter weather has a direct impact on our homes and their cleanliness. With issues like condensation, damp and mould at a higher risk this month, it's important to stay on top of the essentials and make sure everything is clean and running smoothly before winter officially hits.
Lucky for you, we’ve made it easy. These are the 8 most important things to clean in October that should be top of your priority list to keep your home fresh and cosy this month.
Radiators
Radiators collect dust over the warmer months, and you may notice it when they’re switched on again when the temperatures start to drop. Leaving old dust there will result in a vaguely burnt, stale smell filling the house – not pleasant, so it's best to address your radiators now.
Turn the heating off and let them cool completely, then use a radiator brush or the narrow attachment on your vacuum to reach between the panels. Wipe the outside with a damp cloth and dry it afterwards. A clean radiator won’t fix every stale smell, but it can stop that first burst of heating from sending a season’s worth of dust into the room.
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Doormats
A doormat can trap mud, damp leaves and whatever else we’ve trodden in on the way home this season. Take it outside and give it a good shake, then vacuum both sides to lift out grit and debris. How you clean it depends on what it’s made from: cotton mats can often go in the washing machine on a gentle cycle, while synthetic mats may also be machine-washable if the care label says so. Use a mild detergent and avoid high heat, which can damage rubber backing or make the mat lose its shape.
Coir and other natural-fibre mats are usually best kept out of the washing machine, as soaking can damage the fibres. Brush off dried dirt and spot-clean marks with a damp cloth, then leave the mat somewhere airy to dry completely. Check the label before washing any mat and make sure it’s fully dry before bringing it back inside. It’s also a good moment to clean the floor underneath – otherwise, you’re just putting a fresh mat back on top of old mud.
Washing-machine seals
The rubber seal around the washing-machine door can trap water, detergent residue, hair and the odd sock fluff. With more damp laundry and less opportunity to air the room as the weather cools, moisture can linger in the folds, creating a musty smell and a place for mould to develop.
Open the door and gently pull back the seal, working your way around the full circumference. Wipe inside the folds with a soft cloth dipped in warm water and a little washing-up liquid, taking care to remove any grime or small items caught there. Use a soft toothbrush for stubborn dirt, but avoid anything abrasive that could damage the rubber. Wipe away any soapy residue with a clean damp cloth, then dry the seal thoroughly with a towel.
Leave the door and detergent drawer slightly open between washes so air can circulate and help them dry. If you spot persistent mould or the smell remains after cleaning, check your machine’s manual for the recommended cleaning method; avoid using bleach or other strong products unless the manufacturer says they’re suitable.
Dehumidifier filters
Dehumidifiers are an essential bit of kit during wet weather season. And if your dehumidifier has been working hard, its filter may be clogged with dust, which can restrict airflow and leave the machine smelling stale, and working poorly. Switch it off and unplug it before removing the filter, then check the manual: some filters can be vacuumed, some can be washed, and others need replacing.
For a reusable mesh filter, gently vacuum away loose dust or rinse it under lukewarm water if the instructions allow. Avoid scrubbing or using cleaning products unless the manufacturer recommends them. Filters made with carbon or HEPA material usually shouldn’t be washed, as water can damage them. Let a washable filter dry completely before putting it back, and check the air inlet for dust while you’re there. A clean filter helps the machine keep air moving freely, especially as you rely on it more through the damp months.
Extractor filters
Kitchen and bathroom extractor fans collect different kinds of grime. In the kitchen, the filter can become coated in sticky grease and dust; in the bathroom, the grille often gathers a surprising amount of lint and dust, which can restrict airflow leaving the room more susceptible to damp and ultimately mould.
Before cleaning either fan, switch it off at the wall or isolator. For a kitchen cooker hood, check the manual: metal grease filters can often be washed by hand in hot, soapy water or put in the dishwasher, while charcoal filters usually need replacing rather than washing. Wipe the hood and the area around the filter, where grease can settle.
For a bathroom fan, vacuum dust from the grille with a vacuum brush attachment. If the cover can be removed safely, wash it according to the instructions and let it dry fully before refitting. Don’t spray water or cleaner into the fan itself, and avoid removing the casing unless the manual says you can. A clean fan can move air more effectively, helping clear cooking smells and moisture from bathrooms.
Umbrellas
An umbrella put away while damp can leave a musty smell around the house – and it certainly won't be a pleasant experience next time it rains. Get into the habit of making sure your umbrella is fully clean and dry before storing it away. Shake off any excess water outside, then leave it fully open somewhere well-ventilated until it’s dry. Wipe the handle and check the fabric for dirt before folding it away. If it needs a deeper clean, follow the care instructions rather than simply soaking it or spraying it with miscellaneous chemicals.
Gutters and drain covers
Autumn leaves can collect in gutters and over outdoor drain covers, trapping wet debris that starts to smell as it breaks down. If water can’t flow away properly, it may spill over the sides of the gutter or pool around the drain, increasing the risk of damp and flooding.
Clear leaves from ground-level drain covers, wearing gloves and lift the debris away rather than pushing it into the drain. Check that water can flow freely afterwards. Gutters can also be checked for visible blockages from the ground, but only clear them yourself if you can reach safely without climbing or leaning out. For anything high or awkward to access, arrange for someone with the right equipment to do it. Dispose of the leaves in your garden waste or compost rather than leaving them in a pile beside the drain.
Pet beds and blankets
Pet bedding can hold on to fur, damp and everyday smells, even if your furry housemate seems perfectly happy with it. If there’s a funky smell in the house and you can’t quite put your finger on where it's coming from, my money's on the dog.
Make sure to do a weekly check up. Shake out loose hair, vacuum the bed and wash removable covers and blankets according to their care labels. Make sure everything is completely dry before putting it back or you risk swapping one musty smell for another.
