DIY guide to tackle monsoons: Rainproof your living space with these clever hacks

Monsoon home decor tips: Keep clothing spaced out on hangers so air can circulate freely. If your cupboards are built into walls, use wide cello tape along the joints to keep out wall moisture, this simple barrier can be surprisingly effective (Image: Pexels)

The arrival of the rainy season can bring much-needed relief from summer heat, but it also ushers in an entire set of logistic challenges. From stubborn humidity and musty odors to leaky corners and fungus outbreaks, as much as one loves a breezy shower, the real work lies in preparing your home and work space to stay dry, clean, and comfortable. With smart planning and some old-school hacks, you can breeze through the wet months with minimal mess and maximum comfort. Here are some clever hacks to enjoy the rains without being bothered.

Start with a pre-monsoon check:

Before the first big downpour, do a thorough inspection of your living and work space including the windows, balconies, rooftops, and shaded areas. Even small cracks can let in water and result in lasting dampness. If you notice any weak spots, seal them with waterproof epoxy or call in a professional for a more permanent fix. Keeping these problem areas watertight can prevent bigger issues like fungus, wall seepage, or damaged furniture down the line.

Also read | Rainy season home care tips: Expert ideas to prevent leakages, protect your home during monsoon

Wardrobes and kitchens:

Closed wardrobes are breeding grounds for musty smells during the rains. Line your shelves with newspaper or moisture-absorbent paper to prevent dampness. Replace them regularly and add fabric fresheners or a few naphthalene balls for freshness. Store freshly ironed clothes to reduce moisture content and use moisture-absorbing sachets like silica gel or neem leaves to deter pests like silverfish. Clothes that aren’t worn often should be aired out under a fan and, if possible, exposed to a bit of sunlight once in a while—even if just through a window.

Kitchens and store rooms demand extra attention. Grains and pulses tend to attract insects. So lightly oil them before storage. Always keep a stack of dry cotton cloths handy to wipe down surfaces and control kitchen humidity. Make sure that all utensils are dried thoroughly before being stored—damp cookware is an invitation to mold.

Also read | Prevent vector-borne diseases in monsoon: Get your home rain-ready, keep pests and dampness away

Smart storage and space management:

Keep clothing spaced out on hangers so air can circulate freely. If your cupboards are built into walls, use wide cello tape along the joints to keep out wall moisture, this simple barrier can be surprisingly effective. Avoid carpets and rugs altogether during this season, or at least vacuum them daily. Damp flooring is a haven for germs.

Wooden furniture should be pulled slightly away from windows and doors to avoid water damage. If you must store electronics in potentially damp rooms, cover them with plastic sheets and avoid placing gadgets directly on stone or granite surfaces, which can retain moisture. And of course, never handle electrical appliances with wet hands.

Health and hygiene:

Frequent mopping with disinfectants like phenyl and routine insect spray use can keep pests at bay. Try to delay switching on outdoor lights in the evening, as these attract moths and flying insects. For skincare, natural soaps with neem or herbal extracts are useful to prevent fungal infections that thrive in damp weather.

Children, being more sensitive, need special attention. Ensure they’re always dressed in dry, clean clothes and discourage outdoor play during wet weather. Frequent handwashing and foot care should be part of daily routine during these months. And lastly, stock up on essentials like umbrellas, zip-lock bags, dryers, garbage bags, flip-flops, and a good old raincoat.