As soon as the days get longer again and we can enjoy more sunshine, not only nature awakens; we humans also have more energy and vitality again.
Many people do a so-called spring cleaning at this time of year... i.e. curtains are washed, windows are cleaned, wardrobes are cleaned out, furniture is moved - in other words, the whole flat is turned upside down 🙂 .
But where does this tradition actually come from? And does it still make sense today?
Spring cleaning has been around since the time when people started living in houses. As these were heated with wood stoves in the winter months and cooking was also done on the fire, a lot of soot and dirt was produced. It was not possible to air the houses regularly because it was very cold outside. That is how this custom came about.
In Italy, for example, with the ancient Romans, spring cleaning began as early as February. The month was not without reason called Februa after the cleaning festival. Carpets were brought out, cupboards were moved from the walls so that they could be cleaned, etc.
Many have continued this annual routine to this day.... others do the household daily in small steps throughout the year.
Which type are you?
If you feel like cleaning your flat from top to bottom, here are my top 10 "tasks":
- Cleaning windows and washing curtains
- Cleaning tile joints in the bathroom, kitchen, etc.
- Clean lamps
- Wipe out kitchen cupboards
- Cleaning the fridge and oven
- Cleaning carpets (have them cleaned)
- Ridding the house of cobwebs
- Clean pillows, blankets and mattresses
- Wipe doors
- Clean out wardrobe
