Stop spending hundreds on specialized cleaners for every corner of your house. For Diwali prep, a ₹30 box of baking soda does the heavy lifting for grease, odors, and even stubborn drain clogs. It’s mildly abrasive enough to scrub grime but gentle enough to use near food areas, and it neutralizes smells instead of just masking them with perfume. This is the smartest swap you can make before the shopping spree begins.
Start with the kitchen, where the grease is thickest. Mix three tablespoons of baking soda with a tablespoon of water to create a thick, paste-like consistency. Spread this over your stovetop, tiles, or the outside of the chimney hood and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. The paste softens the baked-on grime, so you only need a gentle scrub with a soft sponge or an old toothbrush for those tight corners. Wipe it down with a damp cloth, and your counters will look factory-fresh. Just be careful on polished surfaces—if in doubt, test a hidden spot first.
For the bathroom and drains, this is where the magic happens. If your sink is draining slowly, pour half a cup of baking soda down the pipe, followed immediately by half a cup of white vinegar. You’ll hear a vigorous fizzing sound as the reaction breaks up light buildup. Let it work for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water. It won’t clear a fully blocked pipe, but it’s perfect for that slow, gurgling drain you’ve been ignoring. For tiles and chrome taps, make a similar paste, scrub the grout lines, and rinse thoroughly to cut through soap scum.
Don’t forget the soft furnishings. Sprinkle a thin, even layer of baking soda directly onto your sofa, carpet, or mattress. Leave it for at least 30 minutes to draw out stale odors and light moisture, then vacuum it up thoroughly. If you want a specific scent, add two or three drops of lavender or lemon essential oil to the powder before sprinkling. This is a game-changer for carpets that can’t be professionally cleaned right now. Just remember to let everything dry completely before you sit down.
This method is cheap, effective, and far safer for your family than harsh chemical mixtures. Keep a small open box in your fridge to absorb food odors, and use the paste for your steel sink to restore shine. It’s simple, it’s accessible, and it works.