How to Keep Your Home Fresh When Windows Stay Closed All Winter

Once winter settles in here in Guelph, most of us seal up our homes to keep out the cold for good reason. While this keeps things all nice and warm and cozy, it also means fresh air isn’t circulating the way it normally does. Over time, that can lead to stale air, lingering odors, and a noticeable drop in indoor air quality! Oh No! The good news? A few habits, some obvious, some not so much, can help keep your home feeling fresh all season long, even with windows sealed shut.

Tackle Dust Before Build Ups

With the heat running constantly, dust circulates much faster in the winter. Regular dusting with a damp microfiber cloth keeps particles from settling on surfaces and blocking airflow. Pay special attention to shelves, vents, ceiling fans, and baseboards, these tend to collect the most buildup when air is dry and stagnant.

Refresh Textiles Regularly

Soft surfaces trap odors quickly in the winter. Washing blankets, pillow covers, curtains, and pet bedding every couple of weeks helps keep that nasty musky smell away. Even a quick refresh in the dryer with a low-heat cycle can make a difference.

Deep Clean High-Use Areas

Kitchens, entryways, and bathrooms tend to develop odors faster during the colder months. Wipe down counters daily, sanitize high-touch areas, and keep sinks and trash bins clean to prevent lingering smells. A weekly mop or vacuum of high-traffic areas helps reduce dirt and outdoor debris that gets tracked in from slushy and mucky Guelph sidewalks, walking paths and driveways.

Use Natural Fresheners Instead of Heavy Scents

Artificial fragrances often mask odors instead of removing them. Natural options like simmering water with citrus slices, diffusing essential oils, or placing small bowls of baking soda in problem areas can help to neutralize smells rather than masking.

Don’t Forget the Furnace Filter

One of the biggest contributors to stale air is your HVAC filter. Replacing it every 1–2 months during winter improves airflow, reduces dust, and helps distribute cleaner air throughout your home. (Highly recommended!)

Keep the Air Circulating

Even if your windows stay shut, running ceiling fans on a low, reverse setting can help push warm air down and keep air moving. Small air purifiers also make a big difference in smaller rooms or finished basements.

A Fresher Home All Winter Long

Staying comfortable in a closed-up home doesn’t have to mean stale air. With a few small habits, you can keep your space clean, healthy, and welcoming all winter long. And if you want an extra boost, here at CuttingEdgeCleaners, we offer seasonal deep cleaning services tailored to Guelph homes, perfect for refreshing your space during the cold months.