Closing Up Checklist

For some of us, late fall means it’s time to close up the cabin for the winter. It helps to have a written checklist so you don’t overlook anything – such as the cleaning solution under the bathroom sink. Here’s my family’s closing up list. Use it as inspiration to create your own list.

Miscellaneous:
-  Remove perishable food and store the rest (flour, sugar, etc.) in metal containers
-  Pack up bottles and cans that contain liquids that could freeze
-  Clean out cupboards
-  Vacuum and clean floors; scrub counters
-  Store bedding in plastic containers with covers
-  Forward mail; call Cabin Life to change address (USPS doesn’t automatically forward magazines)

Outdoors:
-  Stack/store lawn and deck furniture
-  Wrap shrubs; cover tender perennials
-  Retract clothesline
-  Check and/or replace window well covers
-  Pull boat in and store; winterize boat motors
-  Pull in the dock

Plumbing:
-  Shut off water pump
-  Drain water tank and water heater
-  Open all faucets and drain completely
-  Drain water filter housing and remove cartridge (new cartridge will be added in spring)
-  Flush toilet, then add RV antifreeze to toilet bowl and toilet tank (emptied)
-  Add RV antifreeze to all drain traps
-  Drain dishwasher and washing machine

Electrical:
-  Unplug appliances
-  Turn off furnace at main switch
-  Turn off circuit breakers to pump, hot water heater, stove, oven and garage