For many Albertans, the cottage is a summer sanctuary—a place for campfires, boat rides, and quiet mornings by the lake. But as the leaves begin to change and temperatures start to drop, it is time to prepare your seasonal home for winter. Closing your cottage properly helps protect it from weather damage, wildlife, and costly repairs in the spring.
Whether your cabin is nestled near Sylvan Lake, Pigeon Lake, Gull Lake, or Lac Ste. Anne, this simple end-of-season checklist will help you shut things down smoothly. From clearing out old furniture to draining the plumbing, here is everything you need to do before locking up.
1. Clear Out the Clutter
Start by walking through your cottage with a fresh set of eyes. Anything broken, water-damaged, unused, or clearly not coming back into use next year should be removed. Clearing out clutter now saves you the headache of dealing with musty, moldy messes next spring.
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Old or broken furniture
Couches, beds, and chairs left in unheated cabins often collect moisture and mildew. We offer furniture removal to help you get rid of bulky items without the hassle. -
Outdated mattresses or linens
Mattresses quickly absorb moisture and attract pests. If yours is stained, sagging, or smells off, it is time to replace it. -
Used-up appliances or outdoor gear
BBQs, mini-fridges, old lawn chairs, and other seasonal gear can be heavy and awkward to transport. We can help with appliance removal and large-item pickups.
2. Donate or Recycle Before You Toss
Just because something is not useful to you does not mean it belongs in the trash. Before you throw everything into a pile, separate what could be reused or donated. Lightly used kitchenware, furniture, tools, and linens may still be welcomed by local charities or shelters.
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The Junk Guys sort items during removal
We recycle and divert reusable goods whenever possible. You can feel confident your unwanted items are handled responsibly. -
Avoid filling local dumps with usable material
If it’s clean, dry, and in good shape, set it aside for donation. Our team is happy to help guide you on what stays and what goes.
3. Remove or Store Outdoor Gear
Leaving gear exposed to Alberta’s winter weather often means it will not survive to see next year. To avoid disappointment, gather up what can be stored indoors or in a protected shed. If something is cracked, faded, or unusable, now is the time to get rid of it.
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Patio sets, fire pits, and umbrellas
If they are rusty, unstable, or torn, we can remove them along with your other cabin junk. We also offer yard waste and exterior clean-up. -
Boating and water toys
Deflate inflatables and dry out kayaks or life jackets before storing them. Anything damaged should be safely discarded. -
Broken dock pieces or loose materials
Rotted boards and rusted nails are a hazard. If you need help, we can also assist with shed removal and larger structures.
4. Drain All Plumbing and Shut Off Water
This is one of the most important steps in winterizing your cottage. Failing to properly drain water systems can result in frozen pipes, cracks, and leaks when temperatures drop. Take your time with this step to avoid costly repairs.
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Drain sinks, toilets, water heaters, and outdoor taps
Use RV antifreeze for extra protection in lines that cannot be fully emptied. Do not forget the garden hose. -
Shut off the main water supply
If your system allows, this ensures no water remains in your pipes. Check it again before you leave for the season.
5. Shut Down the Power and Fuel Sources
Electrical and propane systems should be turned off to reduce fire risk and conserve energy. This also helps protect appliances from power surges and critter damage.
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Turn off breakers and unplug small appliances
Fridges, microwaves, and chargers should all be disconnected. If your power stays on, use timers and motion lights for security. -
Store or remove propane tanks safely
Expired tanks should be replaced or professionally removed. We can include them as part of a larger junk removal pickup.
6. Clean Out All Food and Garbage
Food is one of the biggest attractants for pests in the off-season. Even unopened dry goods can draw mice and raccoons. Take time to empty your fridge, cupboards, and garbage bins completely.
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Dispose of expired or half-used pantry items
Bring home what you want to keep, and toss the rest. We can remove spoiled or bulky waste for you if needed. -
Clean out fridges and leave doors slightly open
This helps avoid mildew buildup. Use a box of baking soda to absorb leftover odours.
7. Inspect the Roof, Deck, and Exterior
Before you leave, do a final walk-around of your cabin. Catching a loose shingle or broken window now can prevent a major issue during a heavy snowfall. If the deck is sagging or the roof is leaking, make a plan to repair or remove before winter sets in.
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We offer deck removal
If your outdoor structures are beyond saving, we can help make room for new upgrades next spring. -
Check for signs of critter entry
Close up any holes or gaps near the foundation, eaves, or doors.
8. Lock It Up and Say Goodbye
Once your systems are shut down and the space is clean, it is time to secure the property. Lock all doors, windows, and sheds. Leave your contact info with a neighbour or caretaker if possible.
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Close curtains and cover furniture
This protects from sun damage and keeps your space tidy for spring. -
Take photos for insurance records
A final walkthrough can offer peace of mind once you return home.
Need a Hand? We’re Here to Help
Closing your cottage for the winter takes time and effort—but you do not have to do it alone. The Junk Guys can help you remove furniture, appliances, outdoor gear, and debris, all in one fast and convenient visit. We serve cabin communities across Alberta, from Sylvan Lake to Pigeon Lake, and everything in between.
Let us help you start next summer off with a clean slate.