Toothbrushes to kitchenware: 4 areas of daily essentials that will get cheaper with reduced GST rates

Representative ImageIndia's Goods and Services Tax (GST) has undergone a significant change recently, with the government streamlining the tax slabs from four, which were 5%, 12%, 18% and 28% to two, now including 5% and 18% and a special 40% tax slab for specific products.While tax cuts are directly associated with savings, the ripple effect extends beyond finances, touching multiple facets of lifestyle, ranging from personal care and healthy living to sustainable transport and cultural traditions.Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that th

e decision to simplify GST rates was taken unanimously, with support from all states. During a press briefing, it was revealed that while the reform may lead to a revenue loss of ₹48,000 crore, it is aimed at benefiting the public and boosting consumption.Under the new GST structure, many essential food items and kitchenware and personal care items have been placed in the lower tax bracket, making daily self-care more budget-friendly.

Everyday wellness products

The GST reduction on everyday personal care products like soaps, toothpaste, shampoo, and hair oils lowers the cost of maintaining good hygiene and grooming. Such items becoming more affordable encourages individuals to adopt better self-care and hygiene habits, which can improve overall health and confidence.

This subtle and impactful fiscal change can help in leading healthier lifestyle routines and boosts consumer morale in a world where small comforts count immensely.

Kitchen and tableware

Tax cuts on kitchenware and tableware reduce household expenses and encourage more social gatherings and family time together. Chapatis, parathas, paneer, khakra, and pizza bread will now have zero GST, making them cheaper. Everyday food items like butter, ghee, juices, ice cream, biscuits, and dry fruits will now be taxed at 5% instead of 18%.

Household items like utensils, bicycles, feeding bottles, and kitchenware also get a tax cut from 12% to 5%.

Children’s essentials and education

There have been significant GST cuts on infant care products, including feeding bottles, diapers, and school supplies, to make essential goods for children more affordable. Maps, charts, globes, pencils, sharpeners, crayons and pastels, exercise books, and notebooks will be charged at nil from 12 per cent.

This will help families better manage the costs of childcare and education, which are often significant financial expenses.

Activity and fitness-related products

The revised GST slab reduces tax on bicycles, making them more financially accessible as a mode of transport and exercise. This will also support environmentally friendly ways of commuting while promoting healthier lifestyles through increased physical activity. Encouraging bicycle use aligns with sustainability goals, reduces carbon footprints, and helps ease urban congestion.