Do you start to get the itch for spring cleaning, or to get rid of multiple items you no longer use? Spring cleaning has been a term used for generations and it can refer to yardwork, deep cleaning your home, and even cutting things out of your lifestyle. In this blog, we want to discuss the emotional and physical health benefits of spring cleaning and why this little phrase causes so much hype each year.
The History Of Spring Cleaning
There are many speculations and possible origins of what we now call spring cleaning. In the past, many religions or groups of people would cleanse or clean out homes and synagogues after the harsh winters. The first origin that experts think could have contributed to the term spring cleaning is Persian New Year. Preparing for Persian New Year involves a practice called “shaking the house” where everything is deep cleaned from drapes to furniture.
For those who had wood-burning stoves and were more or less hunkered down for the winter, cleaning after the cold weather subsided meant airing out the home, clearing soot, and restocking food supply.
Another religious connotation is the Jewish practice of preparing for Passover. During the week-long observance, followers are to abstain from anything leavened or fermented. It is also common to clear the house of any leavened items.
In European homes during the 19th century, those in wet climates would use the spring weather to air out and clean their homes. This time was perfect for opening windows and doors to let air through without worrying about too many bugs or creatures entering the home.
No matter what origin first started spring cleaning, today it can refer to many different areas of our lives. The process of cleaning after a long winter mostly confined to our homes is a good way to mentally reset.
Health Benefits From Proper Cleaning
Most homeowners and business owners participate in a deep spring cleaning because it is a good excuse to improve the health of the space. Cleaning rids your home of allergens, pet dander, bugs, fumes, dirt, and other build-ups that can cause health concerns.
Some specific benefits of thorough cleaning include less risk of injury because of less clutter, providing physical movement for your body, improving your focus and mental clarity, improving the air quality in your home, and removing harmful bacteria that can make your family, you, or your pets sick.
Cleaning your home will also keep it from deteriorating faster or having your items damaged. Areas like your floors, windows, furniture, light fixtures, and the exterior of your home need to be cleaned in order to receive their full lifespan.
Psychological Improvements
Having a clean home that is clutter free can improve your mental health and clarity. Working to maintain your home, decluttering items you no longer need, and taking time for yourself will all help improve your thought processes.
People also tend to have what is called the fresh start effect which makes them have the itch to start spring cleaning. The start of a new season can help us to track the ebbs and flows of our motivation. Having warmer weather, longer days, and bright sunshine can help boost people’s morale and ability to deep clean their homes.
People also like to see themselves in a good light and continuously improve. By telling ourselves that the spring version of us will be better than the winter version, or the common phrase “New Year new me” we put ourselves in a position to take a positive step. Spring cleaning can help set us up for a happier few months by helping us feel accomplished. Even if you don’t deep clean your whole house, hiring a professional or donating used items can help us feel productive.
Items To Include On Your Spring Cleaning List
It can often feel overwhelming to start your spring cleaning, but even just small improvements like cleaning spaces you don’t normally clean or cleaning out your closet are good places to start. Below are some items to add to your spring cleaning list and ones that Sierra Vista Maintenance can help you tackle.
- Wipe down doors and baseboard
- Declutter your closets and donate clothes
- Dryer vent cleaning
- Clean your washing machine
- Deep clean ceiling fans
- Exterior and interior window cleaning
- Replace lightbulbs
- Deep clean your oven
- Vacuum or dust lamp shades, blinds, and drapes
- Rotate and clean your mattress
- Change batteries in smoke detectors
- Clean out your gutters
- Disinfect common surfaces (keyboards, door handles, coffee tables, handrails, etc.)
- Clean and sanitize your shower head
- Store winter clothes
- Clean out email, hard drives, file cabinets, and junk mail
- Update first aid kits or emergency packs
- Wash rugs and mats
- Clean your fireplace and chimney
Home Cleaning With Sierra Vista Maintenance
Sierra Vista Maintenace has many services to help improve the comfort of your home. Spring cleaning or any time of the year is just as important to us as it is to you. Maintaining your home starts with quality services from a top-of-the-line company. Schedule an estimate or an appointment with us today!