Maintaining a clean and organised home is essential in the sunny state of Goa, where the humidity can be challenging and the monsoons bring their own set of housekeeping challenges. Whether you live in a cosy apartment in Panjim or a villa in Margao, these eco-friendly house cleaning tips will help create a welcoming space without relying heavily on harsh chemicals.
The Green Cleaning Revolution
Contrary to what advertising would have us believe, we don’t need a different product for every cleaning task. Effective cleaners can be made at home using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and natural soap. These alternatives are not only budget-friendly but also safer for your family and Goa’s delicate ecosystem.
Essential Cleaning Kit
Start by assembling three basic cleaning kits – one each for your kitchen, bathroom, and general cleaning. Each kit should include:
- A small bucket or container
- Rubber gloves
- Scrubbing brushes
- Cotton cleaning cloths
- Natural cleaners like vinegar and baking soda
- Recycled toothbrushes for cleaning tight spaces
Simple Natural Cleaning Solutions
For All-Purpose Cleaner:
Mix ½ cup washing soda with 2 litres of warm water. This solution works perfectly for floors, walls, countertops, and sinks.
For Windows:
In Goa’s humid climate, keeping windows clean can be challenging. Simply pour vinegar onto newspaper and wipe windows, then polish with a clean sheet of newspaper for streak-free glass.
For Bathroom Cleaning:
Make a paste with baking soda and a few drops of tea tree oil – an excellent natural disinfectant. This combination is particularly effective in dealing with bathroom mould, a common issue during Goan monsoons.
Daily Maintenance Tips
Kitchen:
- Wipe down surfaces after cooking
- Clean spills immediately
- Keep countertops clear of unnecessary items
- Regular cleaning of the fridge and organising pantry items in sealed containers (essential in Goa’s climate)
Bathroom:
- Keep surfaces dry to prevent mould growth
- Use vinegar and baking soda for regular cleaning
- Clean grout with a natural paste to prevent mould buildup
- Maintain good ventilation
Laundry Care in Humid Weather:
- Use natural laundry solutions
- Take advantage of Goa’s abundant sunshine for line-drying clothes
- Turn coloured clothes inside out when drying to prevent fading
- Consider indoor drying options during the monsoon season
Decluttering Strategies
Maintaining an organised home in Goa’s tropical climate requires regular decluttering:
- Store only what you need and use regularly
- Keep similar items together
- Use sealed containers for storage to protect from humidity
- Regularly check and dispose of expired items
- Maintain proper ventilation to prevent mustiness
Eco-Friendly Practices
Consider these environmental aspects while cleaning:
- Use natural cleaning products to protect Goa’s water systems
- Minimise water usage
- Choose reusable cleaning cloths over disposable ones
- Properly dispose of or compost waste
- Use biodegradable cleaning solutions
Methods of Decluttering
It is often that you might feel overwhelmed with the task ahead of you. Employing tactics that are formulaic and structured can help you tackle the decluttering mission successfully. Here are some of our favourites!
- The Didn’t Know Method – Perfect for tackling overstuffed spaces and rediscovering forgotten items before they become clutter problems.
- The Move-Out Decluttering Method – Ask yourself: “Would this item make it to my dream home?” If not, it’s time to let it go.
- Three-Second Decluttering Rule – A gentle approach where items get to stay unless you immediately know you don’t want them.
- Micro-decluttering – Focus on one small area for just 10 minutes, like a single drawer, to make quick improvements to everyday spaces.
- Dopamine Decluttering Method – Create positive associations with decluttering by setting small goals and rewarding yourself for achieving them.
- 90/90 Decluttering Rule – If you haven’t used it in the past 90 days and don’t see yourself using it in the next 90, let it go.
You can check out more methods here.
Finding Your Perfect Home
Creating a clean, organised living space is easier when you start with the right home. Find a trusted real estate developer in us at Satt Adhar. We understand the unique challenges of maintaining a home in Goa’s climate. Your apartment in Panjim should be a thoughtfully designed property incorporating features that promote better ventilation, resist humidity, and provide ample storage solutions. Their developments should blend modern amenities with traditional wisdom, making home maintenance easier while preserving the essence of Goan living.
Remember, a clean and organised home isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about creating a healthy, harmonious living environment where memories are made and life is celebrated. With these simple house cleaning tips and the right home, you can maintain a space that truly reflects the joy and vibrancy of Goan living.
