The joyous glow of Diwali has faded, and the festive buzz is settling down. Before you pack away those beautiful, handcrafted decorations, a little care now will ensure they grace your home again next year, saving you time, money, and memories.
Clay and Earthen Diyas
Your beautiful
earthen diyas need gentle handling. Before storing, ensure they are completely cool. Gently scrape out any leftover wax or use a soft cloth to wipe away oil residue while it's still soft. You can wash them with mild soap and water, but the most crucial step is to let them dry completely to prevent mould. Once bone-dry, wrap each diya individually in newspaper or bubble wrap to stop them from chipping against each other in storage. Packing them this way preserves their delicate nature for many Diwalis to come.
Brass and Metal Items
Brass lamps and puja thalis can lose their lustre due to soot and oxidation. To clean them, avoid harsh chemicals. A traditional paste made of lemon juice and salt, or tamarind pulp, works wonders. Gently rub this mixture on the surface, rinse well, and, most importantly, dry immediately and thoroughly with a soft cloth to prevent water spots and future tarnishing. For storage, wrap each piece individually in soft cotton or muslin cloth—never plastic, as it traps moisture. Store in a cool, dry place away from humidity.
Fabric Decor: Torans and Bandhanwars
Hand-embroidered torans and colourful bandhanwars are often the stars of Diwali decor. Treat these textile pieces with care, like you would a favourite garment. For cleaning, spot-treat any stains gently rather than attempting a full wash, which could damage delicate mirror work or embroidery. A light dusting or a soft brush is usually sufficient. To store, you can hang them on a coat hanger and cover them with a dry-cleaning bag to keep dust away. Alternatively, roll them carefully—never fold, to avoid permanent creases—and store them in a dry box with silica gel packets to absorb moisture.
Fairy Lights and Electronics
Nothing is more frustrating than untangling a mess of fairy lights next year. The trick is to wrap them properly now. Find a piece of sturdy cardboard, cut a slit in one end to secure the plug, and then wrap the lights neatly around the cardboard. You can also use an empty paper towel roll or even a Pringles tube. Once wrapped, you can place each set in its own zip-top bag to prevent them from tangling with other sets. This simple step will save you a major headache next festive season.
Paper Lanterns and Kandils
Paper decorations like kandils are the most delicate. The key to their preservation is keeping them away from moisture and pressure. If your lantern is collapsible, flatten it carefully. If not, try to store it as is, protecting it from being crushed. Dust them gently with a soft, dry feather duster. Wrap them in acidfree tissue paper and place them in a labelled box on top of heavier items. Avoid storing them in basements or attics where dampness can cause the paper to sag or get mouldy.
