The seasons are shifting — darker mornings, colder air, longer days indoors. Your phones, laptops, tablets — they’ve been through summer holidays, heavy use, and the usual build-up of clutter, dirt, and ignored update reminders. As we head into Autumn, it’s time to sort out the jobs you’ve probably been putting off.

1. Cut the Clutter

Storage fills up quickly with duplicate photos, unused apps, downloads and random files. It’s not just about saving space — a device that’s nearly full runs slower and struggles with updates.

• Delete blurry or duplicate photos
• Clear out apps and downloads you’re no longer using
• Use your phone or laptop’s storage tools to spot what’s taking up the most space

Making space now means smoother performance, faster syncing, and fewer issues when updates or backups roll in.

2. Back Up the Important Stuff

If your device went missing or failed tomorrow, what would you actually lose? Most people assume everything is backed up — but it often isn’t.

• Use iCloud, Google Drive, or another cloud system
• Back up more than just photos — include contacts, documents, and notes
• Test it: try restoring a file or checking your most recent backup

Backing up now also makes any upcoming phone swaps, upgrades, or accidents far less painful.

3. Clean Your Tech (Properly!)

Dirt builds up quickly on phones, laptops and headphones — and in the colder months you’re using them indoors more often. Dirt isn’t just cosmetic: it clogs charging ports and muffles speakers.

• Wipe screens and keyboards with a microfibre cloth and safe cleaner
• Clean around ports and buttons with a cotton bud or compressed air
• Don’t forget cables, phone cases and earbuds

You’re going to be using these devices more as the days get shorter — might as well make sure they’re clean and working properly.

4. Check Batteries and Cables

Battery life usually gets worse in cold weather. If your phone is already struggling, it’ll only go downhill as the temperature drops.

• Check battery health in settings (most smartphones show % health)
• Replace old batteries or power banks before they fail
• Inspect cables for fraying or heat damage

This is one of those things you only think about when it’s too late — worth checking now while you’ve got time to replace anything dodgy.

5. Update Your Software

Ignore update reminders too long and you’re not just missing features — you’re leaving your device open to bugs and security flaws.

• Install system and app updates across devices
• Review permissions and background activity while you're there
• Check your login details for cloud accounts and email — future-you will thank you

Heading into a busier, more digital-heavy season, stable, secure software just makes life easier.

6. Deal with the Forgotten Gadgets

Most of us have a drawer of unused tech: old phones, cracked tablets, tangled cables. Time to be realistic.

• Sell or trade in anything still working
• Recycle old or broken devices responsibly
• Keep only what you’d actually use as a backup

Autumn’s a smart time to make space — before you start hiding Christmas presents in the same drawer.

7. Protect the Gear You Actually Use

Once you’ve cleaned up and cleared out, you’re left with the devices that matter. Those are the ones worth protecting.

• Make sure your case and screen protector are still doing their job
• Consider gadget insurance if you’re using devices daily or travelling with them
• Think ahead — damage, loss or theft always happens at the worst moment

As the season shifts and routines change, your phone, laptop or tablet probably won’t get a break. So don’t wait until something goes wrong to get it sorted.

You don’t need to overhaul your entire setup. Just clear out what you don’t need, back up what you do, and make sure the devices you rely on every day are ready for the months ahead.



A 30-minute clean-up now could save you hours of hassle later — and gives your tech a fresh start before the season kicks in.