Fall is the best time of year to get your yard, garage and storage spaces in order. The summer toys and tools are done, leaves are coming down, and a few hours of work now means a cleaner, safer home through winter and an easier start in spring. Use this fall cleanup checklist to plan the job, and the tips below to make it faster and less messy.
Before You Start: Gather Supplies
- Rake, leaf blower or mower with a bagging attachment
- Heavy-duty trash bags for leaves and debris, plus lighter bags for sorting
- Work gloves and a pair of disposable gloves for dirty jobs
- Pruning shears, a broom and a hose
- Storage bins and labels
- Stretch wrap for bundling tools and covering stored items
For leaves and yard waste, choose large, thick bags. A 38 x 58 in, 55–60 gallon bag at 1.5 mil or heavier handles wet leaves and twigs without splitting. For branches and sharp debris, go up to 2 mil or 3 mil. Check whether your city collects yard waste in paper bags only before you bag leaves.
Thick contractor-style bags handle leaves, twigs and garage debris.
Bags of 1.5 mil or thicker handle wet leaves without splitting.
Yard Checklist
- Rake or mulch the leaves. A thick layer of wet leaves can smother grass over winter. Mulching them with the mower returns nutrients to the lawn; bag the rest.
- Mow one last time. Cut the grass a little shorter than usual for the final mow of the season.
- Clean gutters. Clogged gutters overflow and can damage siding and foundations when winter rain and snow arrive.
- Trim dead branches. Remove dead or overhanging branches before winter storms bring them down.
- Clear flower beds. Pull out spent annuals and weeds, and add a layer of mulch around perennials.
- Drain and store hoses. Water left inside hoses and outdoor faucets can freeze and crack them.
- Clean and cover outdoor furniture. Wash cushions and frames, let them dry fully, then store them or cover them.
Garage Checklist
- Empty one wall at a time. Pull everything out, sweep, and only put back what you use.
- Sort into four piles: keep, donate, recycle and trash. Use a different bag or bin for each so nothing gets mixed up.
- Dispose of chemicals safely. Old paint, oil and pesticides should go to your local household hazardous waste drop-off, never in the trash.
- Put summer gear away. Clean pool toys, bikes and camping gear before storing them.
- Bring winter items forward. Snow shovels, ice melt and car emergency kits should be easy to reach.
Smart Storage Tips
- Bundle long tools. Wrap rakes, shovels and poles together with a few turns of hand stretch film so they stand up without falling over.
- Protect cushions and fabric. Store clean, dry cushions in large clear bags so you can see what is inside. Make sure they are completely dry first to prevent mildew.
- Label everything. Clear bins and bags with labels save time next spring.
- Keep small parts together. Put screws, hose fittings and small tools in labeled resealable bags.
A roll of hand stretch film is handy for bundling tools and wrapping stored items.
Safety Reminders
- Wear gloves when handling leaves and debris; they can hide sharp sticks, glass or insects.
- Lift heavy bags with your legs, not your back, and do not overfill them. Two half-full bags are easier to carry than one heavy one.
- Use a sturdy ladder and a helper when cleaning gutters.
- Keep children and pets away from bags and plastic film.
Clear, labeled bins make next spring easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size bag is best for leaves?
Large 39–60 gallon bags work best. Look for 1.5 mil or thicker for wet leaves, and follow your city’s rules for yard waste collection.
Should I leave some leaves in the garden?
A thin layer in flower beds can protect plants and help insects over winter. Just keep thick piles off the lawn.
How long does a fall cleanup take?
For an average home, plan one weekend: one day for the yard and one for the garage.
For more home ideas, read 10 smart ways to use drawstring bags beyond the trash can and plastic storage solutions for an organized home.
