Heavy rains have lashed Chennai
once again. Clothes hang half-dried on rods and chairs, laundry bags overflow,
and the terrace looks like a mini lake. The house smells damp; windows are shut
tight against gusty winds and stray drizzles that sneak in through the cracks.
Floors glisten with wet footprints, and the entire ambience feels “watery,
watery everywhere.”
Yet, even amidst this humid gloom,
many Chennai homes remain intact in their art, décor, and warmth — a testament
to the city’s spirit of homely resilience.
How do they do it?
Here are a few ways to retain that charm and comfort when the weather drenches
everything around:
Brighten and Freshen Up
Keep a few lamps or fairy lights
glowing in corners to create a cozy warmth. Add a few drops of eucalyptus or
lemongrass oil in diffusers — they fight musty smells and instantly lift the
mood.
Smart Drying Corners
Set up a compact indoor drying
rack near a fan or window. Place an old towel or mat beneath it to catch drips.
If possible, dry lightweight clothes first so they rotate faster.
Fabric Refresh
Sprinkle fabric fresheners or
lightly iron clothes to chase away dampness. Cushion covers, bed linen, and
curtains benefit from a quick tumble in the dryer or a mild sun exposure
between showers.
Protect Art and Wood
Move delicate paintings and wooden
décor away from seepage-prone walls. A thin coat of wax polish on wood prevents
moisture damage. Wipe frames regularly to avoid mould or discoloration.
Green Corners
Indoor plants like money plant,
snake plant, or peace lily absorb humidity and keep air fresh. A vase of
jasmine or chrysanthemums adds instant cheer and fragrance.
Let Air Circulate
Even a few minutes of ventilation
between downpours can make a big difference. Keep a window slightly ajar or run
exhaust fans to let stale air out.
Maintaining Kitchens and Bathrooms
These two spaces bear the brunt of
humidity during Chennai rains.
Kitchens: Wipe counters and sinks
often. Avoid piling wet utensils overnight. Keep a small bowl of coffee grounds
or baking soda near the sink to absorb damp smells. Light a camphor cube or use
a lemongrass incense stick to freshen the air.
Bathrooms: Use exhaust fans or
open windows during dry spells. Mop floors regularly with a mild disinfectant
containing citrus or pine oils. Wash mats frequently and replace wet towels
promptly. A splash of vinegar or phenyl in cleaning water keeps tiles free from
fungus.
The Wet Newspaper Problem
Morning newspapers arrive
half-soaked, folded in dripping covers. To save them, gently spread the pages
on a dry surface or under a fan before reading. Avoid placing them on wooden
tables directly — use a tray or mat underneath. Later, sun-dry or air them well
before storing for recycling; damp papers can develop fungus and odour.
In-and-Out Chappal Care
Rain means muddy footwear at the
door. Keep two pairs ready — one for outdoors and another clean pair for
indoors. Place a sturdy mat or tray at the entrance for wet slippers. Wash and
sun-dry them whenever possible to prevent that unmistakable monsoon smell. A
touch of neem or dettol water works wonders for hygiene.
A Warm Cup and Good Music
When the rain keeps pouring and
the city feels waterlogged, nothing beats a steaming cup of filter coffee or
ginger tea. Add some soft Carnatic music or instrumental tunes in the
background. Warmth, after all, is not just about temperature — it’s the mood
you create.
Conclusion
Rains may drench the city and
delay drying of clothes, but they also invite us to slow down, care for our
spaces, and find comfort indoors. Amidst puddles and pouring skies, a Chennai
home continues to glow — with its art, its light, and its ever-adapting heart.
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