Preparing your home for fall during August
Photo taken August 1st - Apples and flowers from Sugarwood -
Here’s a list of suggestions for August that will gently prepare you and your home for fall, without rushing through August, especially if you're someone who enjoys the changing of the seasons and a dose of New England-style homemaking.
Home & Garden
Tidy up summer garden beds and begin planning your autumn displays.
Order or pick up fall bulbs to plant later in the fall (squill, tulips, daffodils, hyacinths).
Refresh front door décor with a nod to early fall such as dried herbs, antique baskets, or apples.
Begin transitioning throws and pillows to warmer tones and textures.
Air out and wash cozy blankets for the chilly nights ahead.
Begin deep cleaning rooms one at a time (especially if entertaining in fall).
Check on firewood inventory, add drying wood to a stack close to your home or place an early delivery order.
Add cozy lighting (lamps, lanterns, battery candles) to porches or rooms.
Kitchen & Pantry
Clean and organize your pantry with fall recipes in mind: cinnamon, nutmeg, canned pumpkin.
Stock up on baking staples such as: flour, sugar, molasses, baking powder, vanilla, oats.
Make and freeze fruit crumbles or applesauce with late summer produce.
Harvest and dry herbs from your garden to use during the colder months.
Whip up an early harvest soup or stew recipe on a rainy day.
Cozy Living
Switch out summer candles for fall blends (vanilla, apple, wood smoke).
Begin a new book with a cozy or historical theme, perfect for August and early September evenings.
Write or print autumn bucket lists and hang in the kitchen or on a clipboard.
Collect pinecones or acorns on a nature walk to use later in your September decorating.
Begin planning fall outings: fairs, foliage drives, antique markets.
Wardrobe & Self-Care
Pull out transitional clothing (light sweaters, boots) and assess what you need.
Organize drawers and closets—donate what no longer fits your style or season.
Book haircuts or skincare appointments before the busy fall rush.
Treat yourself to a fall-scented soap or lotion.
Begin a cozy bedtime ritual that might include herbal tea, earlier nights, journaling.
Creative Touches
Start crafting or collecting items for autumn wreaths or table décor.
Forage or clip dried florals like hydrangeas to display or store.
Begin writing September or fall-themed journal entries to capture the shift.
Organize your fall candles, linens, or home décor by room.
Make a playlist of cozy movies, fall music ,or ambient sounds.