Onam is not just a festival—it’s an emotion that unites every Malayali around the globe. It is a time of joy, family gatherings, grand feasts, and the much-awaited arrival of King Mahabali. From preparing the elaborate Onam Sadya to decorating homes with vibrant pookalams, everything about the season speaks of love, togetherness, and tradition.
But along with these celebrations comes another important responsibility: making your home ready to welcome guests. After all, a neat and sparkling house creates the perfect backdrop for festivities. Nobody wants to host friends and relatives in a space that looks dusty or unorganized.
If you are wondering where to start, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Here’s a complete guide on the 10 things you should clean before Onam guests arrive. Whether you do it yourself or get professional cleaning help from experts like BrickCare, this checklist will make your Onam stress-free and memorable.
1. Floors and Courtyard – The Foundation of Your Celebration
The first thing your guests notice when they step inside is your floor. With Onam pookalams (floral carpets) being placed right at the entrance, it is essential to keep your courtyard and floors spotless.
- Why clean it? Dusty or stained floors can make even the best pookalam look dull.
- What to do?
- Sweep and mop daily leading up to Onam.
- Scrub tough stains, especially in tiled areas.
- If you have a courtyard, remove weeds, dirt, and dried leaves.
- For marble or granite flooring, get professional polishing for extra shine.
A sparkling clean floor will ensure your guests are impressed the moment they step in.
2. Kitchen – The Heart of Onam Sadya
The kitchen is the busiest place during Onam. With over 20+ dishes prepared for the Sadya, it is important to maintain hygiene and cleanliness.
- Why clean it? A clean kitchen ensures safe food preparation and adds to the festive spirit.
- What to do?
- Clean gas stoves and countertops thoroughly.
- Deep-clean your chimney and exhaust fans to remove grease.
- Wash storage containers, spice jars, and serving plates.
- Clear out expired groceries to make space for fresh ingredients.
Guests may not always see your kitchen, but its cleanliness reflects in the taste and safety of your Onam feast.
3. Dining Area – Where Sadya Becomes Special
The dining space is where your guests will enjoy the traditional banana leaf Sadya. A dirty or cluttered area can ruin the dining experience.
- Why clean it? The dining area is where family bonding happens over food.
- What to do?
- Wipe down dining tables and chairs.
- Polish wooden furniture for a refreshed look.
- Clean table runners, mats, and any decorative pieces.
- Arrange plates, banana leaves, and glasses neatly in advance.
When your dining space is clean and organized, every bite of the Sadya feels even more satisfying.
4. Bathrooms and Toilets – The Must-Clean Spot
One of the most overlooked areas before guests arrive is the bathroom. During Onam, relatives and friends might stay over, making it important to maintain spotless and hygienic bathrooms.
- Why clean it? A dirty bathroom is the quickest way to make guests uncomfortable.
- What to do?
- Scrub tiles, floors, and toilet seats.
- Clean mirrors, wash basins, and taps for water stains.
- Place fresh towels, soap, and handwash.
- Keep air fresheners or natural fragrance diffusers.
A clean bathroom speaks volumes about your hospitality.
5. Living Room – The Center of Gatherings
During Onam, the living room becomes the hub of conversations, laughter, and togetherness. This is where guests spend the most time.
- Why clean it? A clutter-free living space enhances the festive mood.
- What to do?
- Dust furniture, ceiling fans, and shelves.
- Wash cushion covers and curtains.
- Vacuum carpets and rugs.
- Organize books, magazines, and décor items.
Adding some fresh flowers or Onam-themed decorations will make your living room warm and welcoming.
6. Bedrooms – For Overnight Guests
Onam often brings extended family members who stay overnight. That means your bedrooms should be neat, comfortable, and guest-ready.
- Why clean it? A tidy bedroom provides guests a relaxing place after long celebrations.
- What to do?
- Wash bedsheets, pillow covers, and blankets.
- Dust wardrobes, dressers, and bedside tables.
- Declutter unnecessary items.
- Add extra bedding for last-minute guests.
A fresh-smelling and organized bedroom will make your guests feel at home.
7. Windows, Doors, and Curtains – The Hidden Dust Collectors
We often forget that windows, doors, and curtains collect the most dust. With Onam celebrations involving lots of daylight and fresh air, keeping them clean is essential.
- Why clean it? Clean windows brighten up your space, and fresh curtains make interiors look new.
- What to do?
- Wipe glass windows with a streak-free cleaner.
- Dust doors and polish handles.
- Wash curtains or dry clean them for freshness.
- Clean mosquito nets if installed.
This small effort can transform the overall look of your home.
8. Balcony and Outdoor Spaces – The Festive Vibe
In Kerala, homes often have verandas or balconies that guests love to sit in during evenings. These spaces can also be decorated with lights and flowers for Onam.
- Why clean it? Outdoor areas create the first and lasting impression for visitors.
- What to do?
- Sweep and mop balconies or verandas.
- Arrange potted plants neatly.
- Remove cobwebs and dust.
- Add festive décor like lights or flower garlands.
A fresh balcony gives your home a festive touch from the outside too.
9. Water Tanks and Drinking Water Area – Health Comes First
During Onam, water consumption increases for cooking, cleaning, and serving guests. Ensuring clean and safe water is a must.
- Why clean it? Contaminated water can ruin the celebrations and cause health issues.
- What to do?
- Get water tanks professionally cleaned before Onam.
- Clean kitchen sinks and water filters.
- Wash serving jugs, glasses, and bottles.
BrickCare offers specialized water tank cleaning services, ensuring your guests have access to safe water throughout Onam.
10. Corners and Forgotten Areas – The Final Touch
Lastly, don’t forget the corners and hidden areas that often go unnoticed. These little details make a big difference.
- Why clean it? Guests notice when your home feels completely fresh.
- What to do?
- Clean under sofas, beds, and behind cupboards.
- Wipe switchboards, photo frames, and wall hangings.
- Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures.
- Spray natural room fresheners for a welcoming aroma.
It’s the little things that add up to a beautiful festive experience.
Onam is about joy, hospitality, and making memories with loved ones. A clean and organized home is the best way to honor this tradition. While cleaning the entire house can feel overwhelming, starting early and following this 10-point checklist will help you stay on track.
If you find it challenging to manage everything on your own, let BrickCare make your Onam stress-free. With professional deep cleaning services, water tank cleaning, floor polishing, and pest control, BrickCare ensures your home is sparkling and ready for the celebrations.
✨ This Onam, welcome King Mahabali and your guests into a home that shines with love, care, and cleanliness.