Preparing for Winter in Wisconsin: From Pumpkins to Plow Trucks

As the last of the fall leaves swirl through the air and the pumpkin spice candles burn their final flicker, we all know what’s coming next... Wisconsin winter. And if you’re a true Midwesterner, you know it’s not just a season—it’s a lifestyle. Preparing for winter here isn’t just about cozy blankets and peppermint mochas (though we fully support both). It’s about rolling up your sleeves and getting your home, vehicles, and life ready for the deep freeze ahead.

Here’s how we’re prepping for winter here in Wisconsin, Slacks to Sweats style:

Pick Up, Pack Up, and Store Away

Before that first snowflake hits, it’s time to do the big outdoor sweep. Pick up the patio furniture, outdoor toys, and garden tools that have been hanging around since Labor Day. Give everything a good wipe down and tuck it into storage until spring. If you’re like us, that first clean sweep of the yard feels oddly satisfying—like officially closing the chapter on fall.

Winterizing Campers, UTVs, and Vehicles

Whether you’re parking your camper for the season or putting away your UTV after those last trail rides, don’t skip the winterizing. Drain the water systems, disconnect the batteries, and check antifreeze levels. If you’ve got a daily driver or family vehicle, now’s the time to check your tires, top off fluids, and make sure you have a winter emergency kit stashed inside. Wisconsin winters don’t play—and neither should you.

Firewood & Fuel Check

If your home runs on wood heat or a propane tank, make sure you’re stocked and ready.

Nothing feels better than knowing your fuel source is full before the temperatures drop below zero. If you rely on firewood, spend a weekend stacking and covering your pile—trust us, your future self will thank you when it’s snowing sideways and you’re cozy inside.

Get That Plow Vehicle Ready

When it comes to Wisconsin winters, snow is a guarantee. That means it’s time to check over your plow truck or ATV plow setup before the first big storm. Make sure your battery is charged, tires are in good shape, and that everything’s greased and ready to go. There’s nothing worse than realizing your plow won’t start when you wake up to eight inches of fresh snow.

Clean & Organize the Garage

If your vehicles spend the summer parked in the driveway while your garage turns into “the catch-all zone,” now’s the time to reclaim that space. A good garage clean-out before winter makes life so much easier. Sweep out the dust, organize your tools, and make space for the cars to fit inside once the snow starts flying. Bonus: You’ll thank yourself every morning when you’re not scraping ice off your windshield in the dark.

Cozy Season Awaits

Once everything’s packed up, winterized, and organized, it’s time for the fun part—cozy season.

Light that peppermint candle, make a batch of chili, and settle in for those long winter nights knowing you’re fully prepared. Because around here, we don’t just survive Wisconsin winters— we thrive in them.

From corporate grind to comfy vibes, we’re embracing every season the Wisconsin way. Tune into the Slacks to Sweats Podcast for more real-life chats about family, seasonal living, and making the most out of Midwest life—snow and all.