Monsoon Hacks: 10 Easy Ways to Protect Your Home From Moisture

To me, the word ‘monsoon’ brings the image of light drizzles and a steaming cup of tea, but that’s not all there is to this season. Unfortunately, this is the same time that your home and surroundings require extra care, and protection from foul smells and dirt. This includes your wardrobe, clothes, footwear, bags, and plants.

Here are some quick tips to save your favourite things from being damaged during monsoon:

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Home and wardrobe care

1. Make sure your clothes are completely dry before placing them inside the wardrobe. You can even use a hair dryer if there is not enough sunlight.

2. Do not try to keep wet clothes inside the bedroom for drying. This can lead to a foul smell that lasts for days.

3. Spread a newspaper inside the wardrobe to absorb humidity.

4. Keep dried neem leaves or naphthalene balls to avoid insects.

5. Keep a packet of salt or silica gel packets inside the wardrobe to absorb moisture.

6. Wrap bags and footwear in muslin cloth or newspaper before storing.

7. Most importantly, ensure proper ventilation in the room.

8. Do not leave any electronic/ electrical equipment near water. If needed, seek help from an electrician to get a thorough check before the rainy season.

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9. Wrap up all carpets and mats and store them in a dry space. The essential ones are to be dried at least once a week to avoid foul smell. Use camphor/ agarbatti/ scented candles in case they start smelling.

10. If you spot fungus on the furniture, wipe it off right away using disinfectant.

Plant care

• Ensure the plants receive adequate sunlight at least twice a week.
• Keep them away from direct rain to avoid soil erosion.
• Use organic fertilisers often, as the topsoil layer will be lost during the season.
• Make sure the pots have holes under them to avoid water from clogging.
• Remove grass and other weeds from the pot frequently.

Extra monsoon tips

• Ensure personal hygiene, especially after going out. Do not let water stay on your legs. Wipe and dry them instantly.
• Avoid pooling of water around the house, which otherwise leads to breeding of mosquitoes.
• Use air fresheners in all rooms, bathrooms, and containers.
• To prevent hardening or melting of food items, store them in airtight containers.
• Try to keep plants outside as they will bring in more mosquitoes.
• Safeguard all documents properly. Laminate them and keep virtual copies.

Sources:

“#MonsoonHacks: How to keep your wardrobe fresh and fragrant”, published by Times of India on 29 July 2020.

“Monsoon Home Care Tips For Your Apartment”, published by PVS Builders & Developers on 19 June 2020.

“How to Keep Your Home Clean & Dry in the Rainy Season”, published by Livspace on 20 June 2020.

“HomeTriangle Guides: Tips to Prepare Your Home in Rains To Prevent Damages”, published by Home Triangle.

Edited by Divya Sethu