Diwali deep clean: Experts share how cleaning can be both hygienic and healing

Hyderabad: As Diwali approaches, homes across India hum with the sound of scrubbing, sorting and reorganising.

The annual deep clean isn’t just about dusting off corners; it’s a ritual that blends hygiene, tradition and mental clarity.

Here’s a practical guide to doing it right, with insights from home organisation experts, eco-cleaning professionals and psychologists who believe that cleaning can be both cleansing and grounding.

Why do we clean before Diwali

Cleaning before Diwali has roots in both belief and necessity. Traditionally, homes were prepared to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, who is said to bless spaces that are pure and well-kept.

But beyond religion, it’s about starting the new year with lightness, both physical and emotional.

“Cleaning is a cultural reset,” said Dr Meera Sahu, a psychologist who studies ritual behaviour, speaking to NewsMeter. When we remove clutter, we symbolically release old energy and prepare to invite something new. That’s why people often report feeling calmer after a proper Diwali clean.”

Start with a clear plan

Trying to clean an entire home at once can lead to burnout and chaos. Experts suggest zoning and sequencing, cleaning one area at a time, starting with storage and least-used rooms.

“Divide your cleaning over three or four days,” advised Rituja Dandekar, a professional organiser. “Day one for wardrobes and drawers, day two for kitchen and appliances, day three for living spaces and decor. It’s not about speed, it’s about being systematic.”

Ritika also recommends making three piles for every room: keep, donate, and discard. “Most homes are 30 per cent clutter. Once you identify what you don’t need, cleaning becomes twice as easy.”

The kitchen deserves special attention

The kitchen often carries the most hidden grime, behind gas stoves, inside cabinets, and under sinks. With the festive cooking marathon ahead, it’s best to tackle this early.

“Use a mix of vinegar, baking soda, and hot water for natural degreasing,” said Dandekar. “Avoid harsh chemicals on countertops or cutting boards. After cleaning, coat steel surfaces lightly with coconut oil to prevent rusting.”

Don’t forget to clean chimneys and exhaust fans. Soak removable filters in a detergent solution for 30 minutes and dry thoroughly before refitting.

Reclaim the wardrobe

Clothes are one of the easiest categories to declutter but also the most emotional. Experts recommend being practical: if you haven’t worn it in a year, it’s time to let it go.

“The Diwali clean is the perfect time to check what fits your current lifestyle,” says image consultant Shruti Rao. “Donate pieces that no longer serve you. And remember, storing less allows your clothes to breathe, reducing odour and mildew.”

After sorting, store festive wear in breathable cotton bags, not plastic covers, to prevent yellowing and moisture buildup.

Focus on neglected corners

Ceiling fans, curtains, light fixtures and switchboards are often overlooked but make a visible difference once cleaned.

“Dust has a way of sitting quietly where we stop looking,” said Dandekar. “If you wipe ceiling blades and fixtures first, you’ll avoid re-cleaning surfaces later. Always start top-down.”

Vacuuming behind furniture and cleaning window sills also helps reduce allergens before the festive season, especially for households prone to dust sensitivity.

Eco-friendly cleaning swaps

Many families now prefer to avoid ammonia- or chlorine-based cleaners that leave residue and fumes. Simple alternatives like vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda work for most household cleaning.

“Chemical-heavy cleaners are unnecessary for regular dirt,” explained Dandekar. “They can irritate skin and lungs, especially in poorly ventilated areas. Switching to natural cleaners is better for your health and the planet.”

For upholstery, use diluted white vinegar as a deodoriser; for glass, use a mix of vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

Don’t forget digital decluttering

In the spirit of starting fresh, experts suggest extending the clean-up to your digital life, deleting unused apps, organising photos, and clearing inboxes.

“Digital clutter adds invisible stress,” said Dr Sahu. “Just as you clear your wardrobe, clearing your phone or laptop gives you the same sense of mental lightness.”

The emotional payoff

The physical act of cleaning has measurable psychological benefits; it reduces cortisol levels and increases a sense of control. For many, it’s a form of mindful movement.

“Deep cleaning before Diwali is both symbolic and practical,” says Dr Sahu. “It’s about creating space, not only in your home but in your mind. That’s why the festival feels brighter after everything is in order.”

A cleaner home, a clearer start

The perfect Diwali deep clean doesn’t need perfection, just presence. A plan, some patience, and the willingness to let go of what no longer serves you can make your space, and your season lighter.

When the diyas are finally lit, the satisfaction isn’t only in how spotless the house looks, it’s in knowing you’ve made room for new beginnings.