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While spring cleaning tends to get all the attention, winter cleaning is just as crucial. As fun and festive as wintertime can be, it often leads to the buildup of dust, dirt, debris, and, depending on your climate, salt, snow, and moisture. The colder months are also prime season for flu, colds, and viruses, so germs are more likely to cover high-touch surfaces such as door handles, light switches, and countertops.

Here’s where to start.

1. Entryways (don’t forget doormats!)

Whether your family enters through the front door, garage, or mudroom, mud, snow, and salt will get tracked in, especially after a big storm. Place a boot tray by the door and encourage everyone to remove their shoes the second they come inside. Regularly clean the floors around the entryway, and don’t forget about outdoor doormats.

2. Flooring and carpets

Even with the best of intentions, outdoor muck will inevitably make its way past the entryway. If it’s not because someone forgot to kick off their shoes, it’s probably because an excited furry household member snuck by before you could wipe their paws. Dry wet floors as quickly as possible to avoid accidents, and sweep or mop debris and mud. Immediately address carpet stains to keep them looking like new.

3. Fireplaces

If you’re fortunate enough to have a working fireplace, maintenance is key to keeping it running smoothly. Safely clean your fireplace regularly and according to care instructions (wood, gas, and electric will vary). If you don’t already have one, adding a fireplace screen prevents embers and smoke from dirtying the area around the hearth.

4. Air filters and vents

Most people rely on their HVAC systems to maintain a warm, comfortable home during the winter. Since you’re spending a lot of time indoors, it’s smart to ensure the air quality is as clean as possible. On average, air filters should be cleaned at least once per month. Likewise, replacing filters every six months is recommended, but it won’t hurt to do it at the end of the season after it has been working overtime.

5. Blankets

Both living room throws and bedroom blankets are getting much more use this time of year. Sick germs, skin cells, and dust will accumulate quickly, so wash them weekly. Although they’re trickier (but not impossible!), don’t forget to clean any weighted or heated blankets that are regularly used around the house as well.

6. Seasonal gear

Take care to wash winter coats that get worn repeatedly (or whenever stains appear), launder accessories according to their instructions at least a few times per season, and promptly remove salt stains from shoes to avoid permanent damage.

7. Outdoor spaces

Trash and recycling cans: Placing cans at the curb for pickup during the winter exposes them to harsh elements. Wipe down and clean trash cans as needed.

Outdoor furniture: Hopefully, you’ve winterized outdoor furniture, especially if you live in an area with predictably cold weather. If you live in a milder climate and can still enjoy an occasional night outside around a fire pit, remember to clean outdoor furniture regularly.

Gutters: Depending on the foliage around your property, you may need to clean gutters at least once during the winter. Pay attention to how clogged they are with debris and use safety precautions.

(Better Homes and Gardens is a magazine and website devoted to ideas and improvement projects for your home and garden, plus recipes and entertaining ideas. Online at www.bhg.com.)

©2026 Dotdash Meredith. All rights reserved. Used with permission. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.