Introduction to : Rainy Season Home Care: Easy Maintenance Tips to Protect Your Home

The rainy season brings moisture and humidity, which can impact the condition of your furniture. Proper care and maintenance during this time can help protect your furniture/home décor from damage and ensure its longevity. In this Blog, we will provide you with simple furniture care tips that anyone can follow. Let's dive in and learn how to keep your furniture in good shape during the rainy season.

Maintenance of wood/wooden furniture

Maintaining wood during the monsoon season requires careful attention to prevent damage caused by moisture and humidity. Let's tell you in detail with some quick tips:

1. Keep the wood dry: Moisture is wood's biggest enemy during the monsoon season. It's crucial to keep wooden home décor items in a dry area with adequate ventilation. For instance, if you have wooden folding tables or chairs, ensure they are placed away from windows.
2. Regular cleaning and dusting: Regular cleaning and dusting of wood surfaces are important to prevent the accumulation of dust and dirt, which can attract moisture. Skipping the top shelves of your cupboards you can’t reach them? Don’t make that mistake as the upper shelves tend to collect more dust. Use a soft, dry cloth to gently clean wooden furniture, removing any dust or dirt particles. Avoid using wet or damp cloths, as they can introduce moisture into the wood. For instance, if you have a wooden bookshelf, dusting it regularly with a dry cloth will help maintain its condition and prevent moisture build-up.
3. Avoid direct contact with water: It's crucial to protect wood items from direct contact with water during the monsoon season. For wooden flooring, place doormats at entrances to trap water and prevent it from being tracked inside. Similarly, use coasters or placemats on wooden tables to prevent water rings caused by glasses or cups. Here, let's say you have a wooden dining table. Placing a table mat or using coasters under glasses can shield the wood from moisture damage.
4. Apply protective finishes: Applying a protective finish on wood surfaces helps create a barrier against moisture and humidity. Varnish, lacquer, or sealants can be used for this purpose. Prior to applying a finish, ensure the wood surface is clean and dry. For example, if you have a wooden outdoor bench, applying a weather-resistant sealant can protect it from rainwater and humidity. (For more information, Youtube is the best source to visit)
5. Repair any cracks or damage: Monsoon season can intensify existing cracks or damage in wood. It's important to inspect wood items for any signs of cracks or damage and address them promptly. Repairing cracks helps prevent further damage caused by moisture. Let's say you have a wooden window frame with a small crack. Sealing the crack with wood putty or epoxy resin can prevent water from seeping in and causing the wood to deteriorate further.
6. Elevate wood from the ground: Outdoor wooden furniture is especially vulnerable to moisture during the monsoon season. To prevent any subsequent damage, elevate the furniture from the ground. You can use sturdy platforms or covers to protect the wood from direct contact with wet surfaces. You can put Tarpaulin sheets on the roofs of your homes.
7. Use moisture-absorbing products: Moisture-absorbing products such as silica gel packets (easily available on any marketplaces) can be placed near wood items to help absorb excess moisture in the air. For instance, if you have a wooden wardrobe, placing a few silica gel packets inside the wardrobe can help control humidity and protect your clothes from moisture damage.

Wardrobe care

• Make sure your clothes are completely dried before you put them in the wardrobe. You can use a hair dryer to dry the clothes if there is no appropriate sunlight.
• Place naphthalene balls in the wardrobe to prevent insects.
• Do not dry the wet clothes in the bedroom as the wetness of clothes can create a bad smell in the room.
• Make sure that there is proper ventilation in the room.
• Dry all the carpets & mats weekly to prevent foul smell.

8. Monitor molds or mildew: Excessive moisture can lead to the growth of mold or mildew on wood surfaces. It's important to regularly inspect wood items for any signs of mold or mildew and take prompt action if detected. If you notice any growth, clean the affected area immediately using a mild detergent and water solution. Thoroughly dry the wood afterward to prevent further moisture build-up. Let's say you have a wooden bathroom cabinet. Regularly inspecting and cleaning it with a dry cloth will prevent mold growth and preserve the wood's condition.
9. Maintain proper indoor temperature: Fluctuations in temperature can lead to wood expansion and contraction, which can result in warping or cracking. Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature can minimize such issues. For example, if you use air conditioning, set the temperature to a comfortable level and avoid drastic temperature changes. This will help maintain a stable environment for the wood. If you don't have air conditioning, you can use fans or natural ventilation to circulate air and regulate temperature.
10. Use a dehumidifier: In areas with consistently high humidity, using a dehumidifier can help regulate the moisture levels in your home. This is particularly important for wooden furniture, as excess humidity can cause wood to absorb moisture and swell. For example, if you live in a coastal region where the air is often humid, running a dehumidifier in your living space can prevent excessive moisture absorption by the wood.

By following these detailed tips and implementing appropriate measures, you can ensure that your wooden items remain in good condition during the monsoon season, protecting them from moisture-related damage and maintaining their longevity.

Maintenance of Electricals & pipes

Maintenance of electrical systems and pipes during rains is crucial to ensure the safety and functionality of your home or building. Here are some tips you should follow:

Electrical Systems:

• Ensure that outdoor electrical outlets, light fixtures, and other electrical components are properly sealed and protected against water. Replace any damaged or worn-out components to prevent electrical hazards.
• Ensure that grounding rods, wires, and connections are in good condition and free from corrosion. Consult a qualified electrician if you suspect any issues.
• Place a wooden rod to protect yourself from any electrical 

Plumbing and Pipes:

• Inspect your plumbing system for leaks, especially in areas prone to water exposure such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. Repair any leaks promptly to prevent water damage.
• Insulate pipes both indoors & outdoors as they are susceptible to freezing & bursting during cold or rainy weather using wraps to prevent them from freezing and causing water damage.
• Make sure that your sinks & pipes are clear & not clogged, as this can lead to water accumulation & slow down the flow of water.

DIYS

1. In the rain, a bad odor is created through wet clothes in the house or room. What can be done? Place coffee grounds in a bowl with a tea light. The candle heats the coffee & spreads a beautiful smell in the room/house.
2. Due to rains often the wood gets spoiled & termites grow in it. A simple hack to get rid of termites this rainy season is to take 2 tbsp of white vinegar & 2 tbsp of lemon juice. Mix it well in a bottle & spray it on the area affected by termites. Leave it for an hour & then wipe it with a cloth. The termites will go away but this is only possible for the surfaces.
3. To remove mold developed on wood during rains take equal parts of vinegar & warm water & mix well in a bottle. Spray the whole furniture with the solution. Let the solution dry for an hour. Scrub the wood surface gently & clean it with a cloth. Repeat the process again if required. Make sure you wear a mask & gloves while cleaning the molds.

Remember to test homemade DIY solutions in inconspicuous areas before applying them widely, especially on delicate surfaces or fabrics.

Conclusion:

Taking care of your furniture during the rainy season doesn't have to be complicated. By following these simple tips—keeping furniture away from direct rain, using protective covers, maintaining ventilation, addressing spills promptly, using furniture wax or polish, and regularly dusting and cleaning—you can ensure your furniture remains in good condition and withstands the challenges of the rainy season. Remember, a little care and attention can go a long way in preserving the beauty and functionality of your beloved furniture pieces for years to come. Stay prepared, stay safe & enjoy the cozy comforts of home regardless of the weather outside. Even though it's important to protect your stuff during the rainy season, don't let it stop you from getting a gorgeous wooden home décor piece. We have a collection of home décor at bambaiSe with lots of different designs to choose from. Take a look and find the perfect piece to make your home look amazing, even when it's raining outside.