I ADORE autumn.

I love the crisp, fresh air, cosy nights in, slipping on new PJs and curling up on the sofa to watch a movie.

It’s the season of woolly hats and pumpkin lattes, falling leaves and falling temperatures, when we all retreat into our own homes at the thought of winter fast approaching.

From a home design point of view, autumn would not be autumn without fluffy throws, soft cushions and crisp, fresh bedding.

Fabrics like velvet and faux fur are everywhere - ideal for wrapping yourself up in, while interior colours start to mirror the outdoors - rich, earthy reds, burnt orange and rusty gold.

After the floaty fabrics and pale colours of summer, it might seem like autumn is a good time for a complete decor overhaul.

But with Christmas on the horizon, perhaps you don’t want to go the whole hog.

There are some simple, small changes you can make, however, to spruce up your home ahead of the changing season.

For example, bring out the cushions and the throws. They can add colour and style to a room. Store them in a pretty basket beside your sofa and you can bring them up when you need them.

Add some seasonal scents. My favourite is apple and cinnamon at this time of year.

Soften your lighting with warm white bulbs and candles - great for setting the mood.

Invest in a couple of statement pieces of furniture - or just move your room around to freshen things up. (Also great for having a proper clean!)

Finally, don’t forget about your outdoor space. Before autumn fully kicks in, remove debris from the gutters and check your roofs for any leaks or cracks - saves any sleepless nights.

If you’re looking for me, I’ll be the one on the sofa, wrapped up in woolly socks and faux fur....

Read more: Glasgow's Mrs Hinch on how to make your bathroom beautiful

MUST HAVE BUY: Nest Smart thermostat, £168.99, Screwfix)

Really useful - it’s helped us reduce our heating bills and it’s really easy to control. It hooks up to your smartphone so you can adjust throughout the day - ideal for making sure your home is cosy for you coming home from work.

Read more: Instagram star Cheryl on the art of decluttering

CLEANING HACK OF THE WEEK:

Spring cleaning is so last season.

Autumn cleans are all the rage. I read recently that experts say it can be an essential way to achieve a healthier winter.

With the drop in temperature and the return to having the heating on, fabrics can be a haven for the germs, bacteria, mould and mites that thrive in our warm winter environments. To prevent winter bugs being passed via germ-ridden hands, ensure that all surfaces are properly cleaned with an anti-bacterial cleaning spray like Dettol.

It kills 99.9 percent of bacteria and viruses. It is suitable for most surfaces. I use it on door handles, my bin and toilet handles, my cats’ bedding and even my living room throws and cushions and it is amazing for cleaning mirrored furniture.

Follow Cheryl on Instagram @myhomeismyhaven