Diwali cleaning made easy: Here’s your ultimate checklist to start the festival with a fresh home

Diwali cleaning tips: Vacuum couches and chairs, using fabric cleaner where necessary. If you have pets, use a lint roller to remove fur. Don’t forget to fluff up cushions for a polished look.

As the months pass, clutter has a sneaky way of accumulating; shoes left by the door that rarely see the light of day, piles of unread magazines, and kitchen gadgets that you promised to use but have remained untouched. Each item tells a story, but as Diwali approaches, it’s time to make space for new beginnings. The festival of lights is the perfect opportunity to refresh your living space and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

With Diwali just a few days away, it’s time to declutter and refurbish your home and invite positivity and light into your life. Gather your cleaning supplies, put on some festive music, and let the spirit of Diwali guide you toward a brighter, more warm home:

Declutter:

• Living room: Clear out old magazines, newspapers, remote controls for devices you no longer own, and outdated decor. For instance, recycle last year’s stack of magazines. Dust surfaces and vacuum carpets or rugs to create a fresh atmosphere.
• Kitchen: Go through your pantry and fridge. Toss expired items, like that half-open jar of pasta sauce from last Diwali. Wipe down counters and appliances, organising kitchen tools so that baking supplies are easy to access.
• Bedrooms: Sort through your wardrobe and shoes. If you haven’t worn a dress in over a year, consider donating it to a nearby charity. Dust furniture and clean floors by vacuuming or mopping.
• Bathrooms: Check cabinets and drawers for expired medications and toiletries. For example, clear out that old tube of sunscreen that’s been hiding since your last vacation. Clean surfaces and fixtures thoroughly.

Deep clean:

• Windows: Clean windows inside and out to let in maximum light. Using a glass cleaner will give you a streak-free finish—imagine how bright your home will look, enhancing your festive decorations.
• Floors: Whether you have carpets, tiles, or hardwood, ensure they’re thoroughly cleaned. Consider renting a steam cleaner for carpets or using a deep scrub for tiles to impress your guests
• Upholstery: Vacuum couches and chairs, using fabric cleaner where necessary. If you have pets, use a lint roller to remove fur. Don’t forget to fluff up cushions for a polished look.

• Storage areas: Sort through closets, storage boxes, and garages. Create a "donate" pile for clothes you haven’t worn and a "keep" pile for seasonal items like winter coats. This keeps things manageable.
• Digital space: Organise files on your computer, delete old documents, and back up photos to the cloud. For instance, create folders by year or event for easier access to memories.

Decorate:

• Festive touches: After cleaning, it’s time to decorate! Bring out beautiful diyas, colorful rangoli materials, and festive lights. Place diyas on windowsills and around the entrance to create a warm welcome.
• Inviting scents: Enhance your home’s ambiance with essential oils or incense. Fresh flowers, like marigolds or roses, can also amp up the festive spirit.

Make a checklist of areas you’ve cleaned and decluttered. Check off rooms as you complete them to ensure no space is overlooked, this keeps you motivated and focused.