Diwali, the festival of lights, is not just about diyas, sweets, and celebrations — it’s also about purity, positivity, and new beginnings. According to tradition, Goddess Lakshmi, the bringer of wealth and prosperity, visits clean and well-lit homes. Hence, cleaning before Diwali is more than just a ritual — it’s a way to welcome good vibes and fresh energy into your life.
But let’s face it — cleaning an entire house can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry! With a few smart hacks and simple tricks, you can get your home festive-ready without breaking a sweat.
1. Declutter First: Less Stuff, More Space
Before you begin scrubbing, start by decluttering every room.
- Sort items into three categories: Keep, Donate, and Discard.
- If you haven’t used something in the past year, it’s time to let it go.
- Recycle old newspapers, magazines, and plastic containers.
Decluttering instantly makes your space lighter and easier to clean — and it sets the perfect tone for the festive season.
Pro Tip: Donate usable clothes, utensils, or toys to charity — spreading joy is the real spirit of Diwali!
2. Go Natural with Cleaning Agents
Skip harsh chemicals — this Diwali, switch to eco-friendly and homemade cleaning solutions.
- Glass cleaner: Mix vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) with a few drops of lemon juice.
- Floor cleaner: Add 2 tablespoons of baking soda to warm water for stain-free mopping.
- Brass or copper polish: Rub with lemon and salt for that natural golden shine.
These natural agents are budget-friendly, safe for kids and pets, and leave your home smelling fresh and clean.
3. Focus on Corners and Forgotten Spaces
During Diwali, Goddess Lakshmi is believed to visit even the smallest corners of your home.
Make sure you:
- Move furniture to clean behind and under it.
- Dust window sills, fans, lampshades, and photo frames.
- Vacuum under rugs and carpets.
Hack: Use an old sock over your hand to wipe hard-to-reach corners — it works better than most dusters!
4. Deep Clean Upholstery and Curtains
Your curtains, cushions, and sofas collect a surprising amount of dust over time.
- Wash or dry-clean curtains.
- Use a vacuum or a lint roller on cushions and upholstery.
- Add a few drops of essential oil (like lavender or lemongrass) while washing fabrics for a fresh, festive scent.
Quick Fix: No time to wash? Spray a mixture of vinegar and water, then let it air dry — it kills odor and refreshes fabrics instantly.
5. Revive Metals, Glass, and Décor
Diwali is all about shine and shimmer!
- Clean silver items with toothpaste for instant brightness.
- Wipe glass surfaces with a microfiber cloth to prevent streaks.
- Polish brass diyas, bells, and idols using tamarind pulp or lemon-salt paste.
Bonus Tip: Line drawers and shelves with new paper or cloth after cleaning — it adds a neat and fragrant touch.
6. Organize and Redecorate Smartly
Once cleaning is done, it’s the best time to rearrange furniture and décor.
- Move bulky items to create more space for lights and diyas.
- Add fairy lights, fresh flowers, and colorful rangoli to enhance the festive mood.
- Keep all cleaning tools organized in one box for future use.
Pro Tip: A clutter-free, well-arranged room looks bigger and instantly more welcoming.
7. Kitchen and Bathroom – The Deep Clean Zones
These two areas need extra attention before Diwali:
- Kitchen: Clean the exhaust fan, chimney filters, and behind appliances. Wipe cabinets and countertops with a vinegar solution.
- Bathroom: Scrub tiles, polish faucets, and replace old towels with fresh ones.
Hack: Mix baking soda and vinegar to unclog drains — it’s quick, effective, and chemical-free!
8. Fragrance Matters: Set the Festive Mood
After cleaning, make your home smell heavenly.
- Use essential oil diffusers or homemade potpourri (dried flowers + cloves + orange peel).
- Burn camphor or guggul to purify the air naturally.
- Light diyas with ghee for a traditional, divine aroma.
A fresh-smelling home enhances the festive feel and uplifts everyone’s mood.
9. Involve the Family
Turn Diwali cleaning into a fun family activity!
- Assign each member a zone or room.
- Play upbeat festive music to keep the energy high.
- Reward everyone with sweets or snacks after finishing.
Cleaning together not only saves time but also strengthens family bonding — a perfect way to welcome Diwali as a team.
10. Maintain the Cleanliness Post-Diwali
After the festivities, don’t let the sparkle fade!
- Keep a daily 15-minute cleaning routine.
- Avoid cluttering again with gift boxes or wrappers.
- Store décor items properly for next year.
Small habits can help your home stay fresh, clean, and organized all year long.
Clean Home, Happy Diwali
Diwali cleaning isn’t just about dusting and mopping — it’s about refreshing your space, energy, and mindset. With these practical tips and easy hacks, you can transform your home into a bright, welcoming haven for Goddess Lakshmi and your loved ones.
So, grab your broom, light those diyas, and let your home shine — inside and out!
