Diwali cleaning checklist: 9 hidden spots you always forget to clean before diwali

Before lighting that diya, don’t forget these hidden dusty corners! Here’s your quick Diwali cleaning checklist for a spotless, sparkling home. (Image: Pexels)

Diwali cleaning is practically a ritual in itself. There’s a certain joy, and also some chaos, in tossing out the old and making space for the new. But even the most devoted cleaner often misses the sneaky, hard-to-reach, or ‘invisible’ spots. So before you light that first diya, here’s a checklist of places you might’ve totally forgotten, and how to clean them fast.

Deep cleaning  before Diwali, usually means scrubbing floors, airing out cupboards, and changing bedsheets. But Diwali light has a funny way of highlighting dust in places we rarely look, like above the fridge or behind that frame in the hallway. These overlooked spots may seem tiny, but they can totally dull the festive sparkle. Don’t worry, we’ve rounded up a clever, fast list of places you can still catch before your guests arrive, or  your mum notices

Also Read: Best home cleaning tips for Diwali 2025 to make every corner shine: Decorate and declutter with your family

Here are 9 forgotten places you need to clean this Diwali: 

Switchboards and charging stations: They collect dust and grime and are often touched with oily fingers. A quick wipe with a damp cloth (and cotton buds for edges) does wonders.

Curtain rods and rings: You may have washed the curtains, but did you check the rods? Wipe them clean and tighten loose hooks—especially if fairy lights are going up.

Tops of cupboards and wardrobes: Out of sight, out of mind. But if your guests are sleeping on floor mattresses, they will look up. Dust, vacuum, and if possible, cover with newspaper to make next time easier.

Behind frames and mirrors: These areas gather sneaky cobwebs and grime. Remove, wipe the back, clean the wall, and rehang with care. Add fairy lights to draw attention to your now-spotless art.

Drawer corners and organisers: Remove items, vacuum or wipe down the inside, especially corners where dust piles up. Bonus: you’ll likely find something you lost last Diwali.

Above the refrigerator: A magnet for grease and dust, especially in Indian kitchens. Use a degreaser or vinegar-water solution, then cover with decorative contact paper for a clean, pretty look.

Exhaust fans and vent covers: Often overlooked, these can accumulate a lot of dust and grime. Remove the covers if possible and soak in soap water, and wipe down the blades. A clean fan makes the air feel fresher instantly.

Also Read: 5 tips to de-clutter your home and organize cleaning before Diwali

The floor behind your sofa: You’ll be surprised, actually horrified, to see what has settled behind your sofa, or other huge furniture. Pull it out, sweep or vacuum, and wipe down any moulding or skirting.

Doorknobs and remote controls: These are touched every day, but cleaned rarely. Wipe them clean with disinfectant cloth and polish wooden doors for an extra festive shine.