In the Northern Hemisphere, astronomical autumn starts on the 23rd September.
So although we’ve been enjoying some superbly scorching days over summer, now’s the perfect time to start thinking about the steps you’ll need to take to make your ‘season of mists and mellow fruitfulness’ as fabulous as possible.
The change in climate brings challenges for homemakers, but these can be overcome with some savvy domestic engineering suggestions.
So here are five hacks for a calm, clean and cosy home this autumn.
- Dog dilemmas
Depending on the breed, your dog might shed it’s light summer coat soon to make way for the warm winter version – meaning your furniture and floors are covered in a layer of annoying hair.
However, you can minimise the damage by booking a dog grooming session at Bella’s – this Newcastle upon Tyne establishment is the last word in canine coiffeurs and offers a de-shedding service that’ll save you constantly vacuuming your home.
- (Pumpkin) spice up your life
As soon as you stash away your summer shorts and the leaves start turning, every coffee shop in existence starts to market their signature pumpkin spiced lattes.
And while there’s nothing wrong with an occasional treat, slaking your thirst for these sugary seasonal treats can get expensive.However, you can save cash and satisfy your sweet tooth by following the fab recipe on the BBC Good Food website and conjuring up a DIY version that’s just as delightful.
- Essential autumn reading
With their changeable weather and resilient culture, it’s perhaps no wonder that Scottish people know a thing or two about keeping cosy and contented in autumn.
And by reading The Art of Coorie by Gabriella Bennett, you’ll pick up prime tips on everything from using pine needles to flavor your drinks to choosing terrific textiles and camping out in comfort. ‘Coorie’ is the Scots word for ‘cuddle’ and this book feels like a warm literary hug when you need it most.
- Autumnal cushions
Switching up your cushion covers is one reasonably inexpensive way to alter your ambience and welcome in the season’s rich, golden hues.
If you’re struggling for inspiration, Dunelm’s autumnal cushion collection includes excellent examples of striped, tartan, woodland scene and wildlife cushions to suit every taste – check out their website and choose the ideal combo for your lounge, kitchen or study.
- Door mats
While children and pets are a blessing, long walks in the autumn woods often result in them dragging all sorts of organic material like leaves and soil straight into your home and across your carpets and couches.
However, investing in outdoor mats from Kleen-Tex will keep your floors spick and span – they’re tough but look terrifically stylish too.
Follow our five hacks above for a hospitable but hassle-free autumn.
That’s our list! Share your own autumn household tips in the comments section.