Monthly Home Timetable
Expert: Joseph Toliver Principal, Fulcrum Residential Services
JANUARY
☐ Wash comforters and duvets.
☐ Change air filters.
☐ Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
FEBRUARY
☐ Clean attics and basements.
☐ Clean air vents.
☐ Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
MARCH
☐ Declutter. Clean closets and donate gently used items to charity.
☐ Dust crown molding, wall corners, ceiling fan blades, behind furniture, and blinds.
☐ Clean air vents.
☐ Change air filters.
☐ Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
APRIL
☐ Check refrigerator drain pan.
☐ Change air filters.
☐ Change batteries in battery-operated emergency devices.
☐ Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
MAY
☐ Check HVAC systems.
☐ Vacuum and flip mattresses.
☐ Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
JUNE
☐ Change lightbulbs.
☐ Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
JULY
☐ Polish wood furniture and wax antiques.
☐ Change air filters.
☐ Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
AUGUST
☐ Schedule chimney sweep.
☐ Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
SEPTEMBER
☐ Schedule pest control and rodent deterrent.
☐ Check HVAC system.
☐ Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
OCTOBER
☐ Change air filters.
☐ Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
NOVEMBER
☐ Clean range hood filters.
☐ Clean kitchen sink disposal.
☐ Wash comforters and duvets.
☐ Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
DECEMBER
☐ Check plugs and extension cords.
☐ Check window and door weather stripping.
☐ Check fire extinguishers.
☐ Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
Cleaning Kit
Expert: Greg Shepard Founder, Dallas Maids
☐ All-purpose cleaner: It’s the staple for most surfaces.
☐ Degreaser: Purchase for the jobs that are too tough for all-purpose cleaners.
☐ Windex: It’s used for windows and shining chrome.
☐ Pledge: This is a must—and the best—for wood furniture.
☐ Medical/surgical rags: They make the perfect cleaning rag—you can find them at Reclaimed Textiles.
☐ Swiffer: or mop and bucket
☐ Broom and dustpan: You can use them for those hard-to-reach spots.
☐ Feather duster: These are tried-and-true dust destroyers.
☐ Step stool: It’s needed for those higher-up areas.
☐ Vacuum: Make sure you have one with built-in extensions.
☐ Latex gloves: They protect you from powerful cleaners.
☐ Wood & stainless steel cleaners: They’re a must have for wood floors or stainless steel.
Closet Design & Garment Care
Expert: Susan Kuruc Senior Design Consultant, California Closets
☐ Tilt-out: hamper Use one for laundry and one for dry cleaning.
☐ Valet rod: They’re perfect for packing and wardrobe staging.
☐ Enclosed wardrobe cabinet: This is ideal for protecting finer clothes.
☐ Felt hangers: This helps maximize storage.
☐ Boot forms or hangers: Keep shoes and boots in their original shape.
☐ Acrylic dividers: A must for keeping drawers organized.
☐ Hooks: Hang robes and other items.
☐ Specialty racks: Protect belts, ties, and scarves.
☐ Slide-out basket: They store flip-flops and slippers.
☐ Glass doors: Consider adding these to protect clothing from dust.
Toolbox
Expert: Mark Serino General manager, Rooster Home & Hardware
☐ Claw hammer: It’s a basic.
☐ Slip-joint pliers: Add it to your toolbox.
☐ Level: Don’t hang a picture without it.
☐ Needle-nose pliers: Use for small electrical projects.
☐ Adjustable wrench: This wrench adjusts to your needs.
☐ Phillips and/or flat-head screwdriver: Buy both so you’re covered.
☐ Small pry bar: Use to pull up nails.
☐ 3/8-inch ratchet and sockets: Buy for small tweaks around the house.
☐ Tape measurer: This is a DIY staple.
Safety & Security Supplies
Expert: Lt. Lance Koppa Public Information Officer, Highland Park DPS
☐ Exterior lighting: Install front and rear porch lights, as well as motion-detection lights.
☐ Padlocks: Place on outdoor fence gates.
☐ Exterior door locks: Lock all doors, including your garage entry door.
☐ Window locks: Ensure they work properly on each window.
☐ Home alarm system: Get one and use it.
☐ Double doors: The inactive door should be secured with a header that enters a strike plate.
☐ Camera systems: The use of camera systems at home also provides a visible deterrent.
☐ Home safe: Great for securing jewelry, firearms, important financial documents, passports, etc.
☐ Address number: Make sure home address is visible from the front and rear of the property.
