Goa’s tropical charm makes it a dream destination with its lush greenery, vibrant nightlife, diverse dining options, and stunning coastline. As a local, a traveller, or even a tourist, Goa is the perfect destination for luxurious living and unforgettable getaways. However, its unforgiving weather, high humidity, and salty sea breeze can take its toll on a home. This is further accelerated due to the monsoon season in Goa which lasts anywhere between 3.5-5 months.

Home Cleaning Challenges in Goa

Excess moisture leads to mold, mildew, and stubborn grime. Wooden flooring swells, natural materials used for furniture deteriorate, metal fixtures rust, and upholstery traps moisture, leading to significant damage and unpleasant odors over the years. Without proper care and maintenance, these various elements can diminish the beauty and longevity of your home. A few cleaning and maintenance tips will go a long way in preserving your home over the years, despite Goa’s humid weather. 

How to Keep your Home Clean in Goa’s Humid Climate

Maintaining Wooden Surfaces

Several homes feature wooden flooring, kitchen islands, wardrobes, or tables which lends warmth and sophistication to the overall look. However, humidity can cause wood to expand, contract, or even warp over time. This is especially true for homes that are along the coastal belt such as quaint villas in Anjuna, Vagator, Calangute, Candolim, and others.

○ Use a dehumidifier or air conditioning to maintain the temperature as well as humidity levels of a room thereby preventing excessive expansion or  contraction.

○ Limit water exposure by avoiding excessive mopping while cleaning up in the event of a spillage. Instead, wipe spills immediately with a damp microfiber cloth, maintaining the wood’s structural integrity and not leaving behind any residual moisture. 

○ Polish wooden surfaces with moisture-resistant wood polish to create a protective barrier.

○ Place doormats at various entrances to absorb any moisture and dirt accumulation brought into a home.

○ Keep rooms well-ventilated and install exhaust fans in places like the kitchen or bathroom to prevent trapping humidity, thus reducing the risk of formulation of mold and decay.

Caring for Marble Flooring

Marble floors are a hallmark of luxury homes, offering timeless elegance and sophistication. However, high humidity can make them susceptible to staining, discolouration, water damage, dullness, and even mold growth in grout lines. 

○ Use pH-neutral cleaners to prevent etching and dullness.

○ Seal the marble flooring once a year to create a barrier against moisture. 

○ Wipe spills immediately with a soft microfiber cloth to avoid any water damage.

○ Polish marble periodically to maintain its shine and protect it against any moisture absorption.

Protect Surfaces

Every home features materials like glass, wood, stainless steel, and granite, all of which require attention and proper care for longevity as these surfaces can be particularly susceptible to moisture damage.

○ Use a vinegar and water mix to clean glass surfaces and prevent moisture buildup.

○ Wipe surfaces down with a damp microfiber cloth and allow them to immediately dry to avoid moisture spots.

○ Use furniture wax or polish to create a protective barrier on wooden furniture. Make certain to use a moisture-absorbing wood cleaner when cleaning up any wooden surfaces to prevent swelling or warping. For outdoor furniture and grills, use weather-resistant covers to prevent corrosion during harsh weather conditions. 

○ Wipe down mirrors with a dry cloth to prevent watermarks and condensation buildup.

○ Clean granite countertops with a granite-safe solution and polish to keep moisture from seeping in.

Protect Furniture 

Furniture items, whether wooden or upholstered, are particularly vulnerable to humidity and thus need special attention. Apart from using furniture wax or polish to protect wooden furniture, there are a few ways to ensure your furniture stays protected against natural elements. 

○ Keep a few silica gel packets inside wardrobes, shelves, and drawers to absorb moisture. Keep the wardrobe doors slightly open to allow easy airflow and avoid any mildew buildup. A pro tip for homeowners with rarely used clothes is to store them in vacuum-sealed bags.

○ Choose breathable fabrics for upholstery and vacuum them regularly to prevent any mold growth. Occasionally, wash the upholstery as well.

○ Rearrange furniture once in a while to allow proper air circulation.

Invest in Professional Services

Every homeowner should consider onboarding a professional cleaning agency as they are better equipped to tackle moisture-related issues more effectively than regular cleaning methods. Moreover, their deep cleaning routine thoroughly cleans all hard-to-reach areas.

These professionals use proper equipment and specialised techniques to deep-clean surfaces and remove any trapped humidity that can lead to long-term damage. Their expertise can also be leveraged to help maintain a healthier living environment by eliminating pests, allergens, and bacteria that thrive in damp conditions.

○ Hire professional cleaning services to clean carpets, upholstery, and curtains thoroughly. Make sure to get the mattresses and bedding deep cleaned to eliminate dust mites and prevent dampness-related issues.

○ Make certain that all the air ducts and ventilation systems are cleared out of dust and moisture buildup for better airflow and humidity control. 

○ Periodically invest in pest control treatments to prevent infestations.

With regular upkeep and a few smart solutions, homes can be well-maintained and protected against the damaging effects of Goa’s humidity. If you’re looking to invest in a 4BHK luxury villa in Goa with a private pool and garden, contact us today.