Should I disinfect daily in winter?

No—clean high-touch spots regularly and disinfect after illness or when the label/use case says to; keep surfaces wet for full contact time.

How often do I test CO alarms?

Monthly. Also have fuel-burning appliances inspected at the start of the heating season.

What’s the safe way to use a space heater?

Maintain a 3-foot clearance from combustibles, plug directly into a wall outlet, and never leave it unattended.

Is air sealing worth it in winter?

Yes—caulk and weatherstrip to reduce drafts and save energy while maintaining needed ventilation.

How often should I clean the dryer vent?

Clean the lint screen every load and the vent duct seasonally to reduce fire risk and improve drying.

Does a HEPA vacuum help with IAQ?

Yes—HEPA capture supports indoor air quality, especially alongside proper ventilation.

Michael Flores 3/11/19 Michael Flores 3/11/19

Winter Home Maintenance & Cleaning Tips for Rough Winters

Winter brings cozy nights—and a lot of indoor time. This guide keeps your home fresh, safe, and tidy with a routine that works in the real world (hello, Buffalo). Start with the spots fingers touch most: door handles, light switches, faucets, and remotes. Wipe these regularly, then disinfect only after illness, following the label’s full contact time so the chemistry can do its job. Floors deserve daily love in winter, too. Shake out entry mats, HEPA-vacuum the traffic lanes, and mop away those chalky salt rings before they etch into finishes.

Indoor air can feel heavy when windows stay shut, so pair HEPA vacuuming with smart ventilation habits. Test smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms each month, change your furnace filter on schedule, and keep humidity in the “just right” zone per your manual. If you use a space heater, give it a 3-foot safety bubble, plug it directly into a wall outlet (never a power strip), and turn it off when you leave the room.

Want to save on energy without freezing? Air seal the simple leaks: weatherstrip doors, caulk window trim, and check the attic hatch. You’ll notice fewer drafts and steadier heat. Laundry day? Clean the lint screen every load and give the dryer vent duct a seasonal cleaning—your clothes will dry faster and your home stays safer.

Your weekly winter rhythm is simple: daily wipe-downs, quick dusting, HEPA vacuuming, mopping of salt trails, kitchen/bath resets, and trash out. Each week, polish entry glass and check filters; monthly, handle high dusting, cobwebs, and trim/ledge dusting, plus a dryer-vent check. The result is a home that smells clean, feels warm, and welcomes guests without the scramble.

Please continue on the the main blog page. There you will find the information you need to come up with a plan to tackle cleaning and home maintenance this coming winter.