Why should you spring clean?
Most of us often wonder why you should spring clean, as it is not necessarily a chore we love. Here, we will look at the history of spring cleaning and its benefits.
“Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a dreaded list of chores. It can be a rewarding experience that helps provide structure and organization in your life.” — Peter Walsh
The tradition of spring cleaning spans various cultures and eras. The specifics may differ, but the concept of thoroughly cleaning, airing, decluttering, repairing, and repainting one’s living space in the spring is a common theme.
History:
Spring cleaning has a rich history rooted in cultural, practical, and symbolic significance, and it continues to be an essential tradition for many people worldwide. The Egyptians and Persians believed that a thorough cleaning during the spring would help rid them of the impurities and illnesses that had accumulated during the winter months.
For the Chinese, spring cleaning falls within the Lunar New Year, and they clean their homes to remove bad luck and make way for good fortune.
In the Jewish culture, spring cleaning is tied to Passover. Families clean their homes meticulously to remove all traces of leavened bread, observing the holiday’s dietary restrictions.
I love the idea of “Death cleaning”, which refers to a Swedish practice known as “döstädning” (pronounced “doe-sted-ning”). It’s a concept popularized by Swedish author Margareta Magnusson in her book “The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning: How to Free Yourself and Your Family from a Lifetime of Clutter.” This practice involves decluttering and organizing your home with the idea that you’re preparing for the end of your life and making things easier for your loved ones after your passing. Each individual takes responsibility for their possessions. You reflect on your life and keep only what truly matters to you.
I look forward to spring cleaning and putting things in their place. It’s so therapeutic for me.
Benefits:
1. Cleaner Environment
Over the winter months, dust, dirt, and allergens can accumulate in your home. If you spring clean it helps remove these pollutants, creating a cleaner and healthier living space.
2. Mental Refreshment
During spring cleaning, you mentally defragment and reset your environment. Cleaning and decluttering can positively impact your mental well-being. It can reduce stress and create a sense of accomplishment.
3. Renewed Energy
A clean and organized home has a positive psychological effect. It boosts your energy and motivation, making you more productive and positive. Letting go of items you no longer need is emotionally freeing.
4. Preventive Maintenance
Spring cleaning provides an opportunity to identify and address any maintenance issues before they become significant problems. Addressing a leaking roof or flaking paint in time, will save you money in the long run.
5. Improved Organization
Cleaning and organizing your space can help you become more efficient and productive. Declutter while you’re at it removing items you no longer need or want. You’ll be able to find things easier and make better use of your room. With fewer possessions, you’ll spend less time cleaning, freeing up time for activities you love participating in.
6. Healthier Living
By removing dust, pet fluff, and mould can help reduce allergies and improve indoor air quality.
7. Aesthetic Appeal
A well-maintained, decluttered and clean home is visually more appealing and can be more inviting to you and your guests.
I love the smell of fresh paint, laundered curtains, clean carpets and decluttered spaces, giving me better access to my belongings and a new ornament here and there to spruce up my home.
Spring cleaning is a valuable tradition promoting physical and mental well-being while ensuring your living space is comfortable and healthy.