14 May
14May

As temperatures drop and the rain returns, preparing your home for the colder months becomes more than a comfort—it’s a necessity. Winter in New Zealand brings dampness, mould risks, and higher energy bills, all of which can be reduced with strategic seasonal cleaning.In this blog, we’ve curated the ultimate winter cleaning checklist to help you create a warm, healthy, and efficient living space. Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, following these tips will protect your property—and your peace of mind—all winter long.


1. Clean and Inspect Gutters

Winter rainfall in New Zealand is no joke. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, damage to your roofline, and even interior dampness. Cleaning your gutters before and during winter ensures water flows safely away from your home.

What to do:

  • Remove all leaves and debris
  • Flush downpipes
  • Inspect for sagging or leaks
  • Book a professional clean if you can’t reach safely

Tip: X-PressFacilities.offers reliable gutter cleaning services across Auckland, ensuring safe water drainage all season.


2. Deep Clean Carpets and Rugs

During winter, we tend to spend more time indoors—and so does the dirt, dust, and allergens. Carpets and rugs trap everything from pollen to moisture, which can lead to mould and bad odours.

What to do:

  • Vacuum thoroughly, especially under furniture
  • Use a steam cleaner or hire professionals
  • Consider anti-microbial treatments for high-traffic zones

3. Wash Windows Inside and Out

Even on grey winter days, natural light helps brighten your space and lift your mood. Dirty windows block valuable sunlight and contribute to a gloomy home atmosphere.

What to do:

  • Use a streak-free window cleaner
  • Clean frames and sills to prevent mildew
  • Don’t forget the inside and upper-storey panes

Bonus: Consider booking window cleaning through X-Press Facilities for hard-to-reach areas.


4. Clean and Test Heating Systems

Whether you rely on heat pumps, electric heaters, or fireplaces, now’s the time to ensure everything is clean, safe, and working efficiently.

What to do:

  • Clean filters and vents
  • Dust electric panel heaters
  • Check for gas leaks or chimney obstructions
  • Test thermostats and timers

Regular maintenance helps reduce energy usage and avoids mid-winter breakdowns.


5. Tackle Mould-Prone Areas

New Zealand homes are particularly vulnerable to condensation and mould during winter. Untreated mould is a health risk and can permanently damage surfaces.

Focus areas:

  • Bathroom tiles and ceilings
  • Window sills and corners
  • Laundry rooms and wardrobes

Prevention tips:

  • Use a dehumidifier
  • Wipe surfaces regularly
  • Keep windows slightly ajar to ventilate

X-PressFacilities offers mould removal and treatment services for stubborn areas.


6. Check for Drafts and Seal Gaps

Unsealed doors and windows let cold air in and warm air out. This not only makes your home uncomfortable but also increases heating costs.

What to check:

  • Door and window frames
  • Floorboards and attic hatches
  • Chimneys and unused vents

Quick fixes:

  • Install weather stripping
  • Use door draft stoppers
  • Add thermal curtains or blinds

7. Clean Behind and Under Appliances

Appliances like fridges and dryers gather dust and lint that can be fire hazards or reduce energy efficiency. Take this time to give them a proper clean.

Tasks include:

  • Vacuuming fridge coils
  • Wiping down dishwasher and microwave interiors
  • Clearing dryer lint from vents and hoses

8. Freshen Up Soft Furnishings

Couches, curtains, and cushions collect dust and odours. Since winter is all about indoor lounging, keeping them clean is essential for a cosy, fresh-smelling home.

What to do:

  • Wash cushion covers
  • Steam clean upholstery
  • Shake out or replace throws and blankets
  • Launder curtains or send them to dry-cleaning

9. Sanitise High-Touch Surfaces

Cold and flu viruses thrive in winter. Reducing their spread starts with disinfecting shared surfaces regularly.

Focus areas:

  • Door handles and light switches
  • Remote controls
  • Phones and computer keyboards
  • Kitchen surfaces and fridge handles

Use a disinfectant spray or wipes, especially if someone at home is unwell.


10. Organise Entryways

Wet shoes, umbrellas, and winter coats need a dedicated space. Otherwise, you’ll be dealing with muddy floors and moisture-related issues.

Setup tips:

  • Add a shoe rack or boot tray
  • Place a heavy-duty mat inside and outside
  • Use a coat rack or wall hooks
  • Keep a towel or mop nearby for quick cleanups

11. Schedule a Professional House Wash

Winter is a great time to remove grime, mould, and lichen from your home's exterior. A professional house wash restores appearance and prevents structural damage.

Services include:

  • Exterior wall washing
  • Fence and deck cleaning
  • Roof moss and mould treatment
  • Gutter flushing and soffit cleaning

X-Press Facilities offers bundled packages for complete winter prep.


12. Declutter and Donate

With everyone spending more time indoors, clutter builds up fast. Use the change of season as a chance to reset your home.

Declutter goals:

  • Wardrobes and linen closets
  • Kids’ toys and books
  • Kitchen pantry and storage bins
  • Expired bathroom items

Donate items in good condition to your local op shop or charity drive.


Why Winter Cleaning Matters in New Zealand

New Zealand's winter brings a unique mix of rain, humidity, and cooler temperatures that test the resilience of our homes. A proactive cleaning routine:

  • Reduces health risks from dampness and mould
  • Lowers heating bills by improving energy efficiency
  • Keeps your home comfortable and functional
  • Prevents small maintenance issues from becoming costly problems

Let X-Press Facilities Help You Winter-Proof Your Home

At xpressfacilities.com, we make seasonal cleaning simple. Our team provides:

  • Gutter cleaning
  • Exterior house washing
  • Window and carpet cleaning
  • Mould treatment and more

We service Auckland and surrounding areas with transparent pricing, flexible booking, and bundled seasonal maintenance packages. Whether you're preparing for the winter school holidays or simply want to stay ahead of home issues, we're here to help.

Comments
* The email will not be published on the website.