Cleaning for the new year? We’ve got your back!
The start of a new year is the perfect time to declutter and organize your home. A thorough cleaning can help you start the year fresh and create a more relaxing environment. However, the thought of cleaning an entire house can be overwhelming. Where do you even begin? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
In this post, we’ll provide you with a complete guide to cleaning your house. From developing a cleaning plan and gathering the necessary cleaning supplies to tackling each room and keeping your home organized, we’ll take you step by step through the process to ensure your house is sparkling clean and ready for the new year.
So, let’s get started and make your home the ultimate sanctuary for the year ahead!
Is it Bad to Clean the House on New Year’s Day?
Alright, before we proceed, we know that some of you may be a bit hesitant to the idea of overhauling your house in preparation for the new year.
You know the superstitious belief: cleaning your house on January 1st will bring bad luck. According to Chinese tradition (which is believed to be the origin of this belief), you are sweeping away all the luck and fortune that seeps through your house. Emptying your trash cans are also a big no-no as they symbolize throwing away prosperity. And here’s the chilling part: doing laundry on the first day of the year means ‘you are washing away a loved one’– a family member or friend could die the same year.
But of course, these are just superstitions: a colorful part of a culture that has been passed down in generations. There’s no harm in following them, especially if you’re a bit superstitious yourself. Well, just to be safe, it’s better to start your general home cleaning project days or a week before the actual big bang.
Now that we’ve cleared that, let’s get down to business!
Why Clean Your House at the End of the Year?
As the New Year begins, there is a natural inclination to start fresh and set new goals. One often overlooked aspect of this fresh start is the cleanliness of our living spaces. A clean house not only provides a sense of calm and organization but also sets the tone for a productive and successful year ahead.
The importance of starting the New Year with a clean house cannot be overstated. A cluttered and disorganized home can lead to feelings of stress and overwhelm, hindering our ability to focus and accomplish our goals. On the other hand, a clean and tidy space promotes a clear mind and allows for increased productivity and creativity.
Additionally, a clean house promotes a healthier living environment. Dust, allergens, and germs can accumulate over time, leading to respiratory issues and allergies. By starting the New Year with a thorough cleaning, we can eliminate these potential health hazards and create a space that promotes overall well-being.
And most importantly, starting the New Year with a clean house is not just about physical cleanliness; it is also symbolic of letting go of the past and embracing new beginnings. By clearing out clutter and getting rid of items that no longer serve us, we create space for new opportunities and experiences to come into our lives.
An Easy to Follow Guide in Cleaning Your Homes
Create a cleaning schedule and checklist
First things first: deciding when is the d-day.
Creating a cleaning schedule and checklist can be a game-changer when it comes to keeping your house clean and organized throughout the year. It not only helps you stay on track but also ensures that no corner or task is overlooked.
An ideal time is when majority of the family members are in the household so you can always ask for a helping hands especially in lifting heavy furniture and appliances. And since it’s the holiday season and most of us are enjoying (and consuming) work leaves and holidays, it’s most likely that you will have someone that will accompany you on your spring cleaning!
Choosing the dates depend greatly on some factors such as the size of your household and your lifestyle. If you have a bigger house, it may take you a couple of days to finish all the task.
When you are done with the schedule, hang it up in a place where everyone can see it. It may add some motivation when you cross out stuff that you have accomplished and also to keep track of your progress.
Gather the necessary supplies
Now that we’re clear with the core mission, it’s time to gather the necessaary cleaning supplies!
Before you embark on your house cleaning journey, it’s essential to gather all the necessary cleaning supplies. Having the right tools and products at your disposal will make the process much more efficient and effective.
Cleaning Solutions- Stock up on a variety of cleaning solutions that are suitable for different surfaces and areas of your house. This includes all-purpose cleaners, glass cleaners, disinfectants, and floor cleaners. Consider using eco-friendly and non-toxic options to promote a healthier environment.
Cleaning Tools- Make sure you have a good collection of cleaning tools that will help you tackle different tasks. Some must-have tools include microfiber cloths for dusting and wiping surfaces, scrub brushes for tackling stubborn stains, a mop or steam cleaner for floors, a vacuum cleaner for carpets and upholstery, and a squeegee for cleaning windows and mirrors.
Gloves and Protective Gear- Protecting your hands and yourself from harsh chemicals is crucial. Invest in a good pair of rubber gloves to shield your skin from potential irritants. Additionally, consider wearing a mask if you have allergies or are sensitive to dust.
Organizational Supplies- As you clean, you may come across items that need to be organized or stored properly. Have storage bins, labels, and other organization tools on hand to help you declutter and create a more organized living space.
Start decluttering and deep cleaning
And now it’s time for action!
Decluttering and deep cleaning your home is the perfect way to kickstart the new year and create a fresh and clean space. It’s amazing how much lighter and more relaxed you can feel once you rid your living space of unnecessary clutter.
Begin by tackling one room at a time. Start with the area that bothers you the most or the one that is the most cluttered. Take everything out and evaluate each item. Ask yourself if it serves a purpose, if it brings you joy, or if it’s simply taking up space. Be honest with yourself and don’t hold onto things out of guilt or sentimentality.
Create three piles: keep, donate/sell, and discard. As you go through each item, place it in the appropriate pile. Remember, the goal is to simplify and create a more organized environment.
Don’t forget about digital clutter as well. Sort through your emails, delete unnecessary files, and organize your digital documents in folders. Keeping your virtual space organized will contribute to your overall sense of cleanliness and clarity.
Remember that decluttering and organizing is an ongoing process. Make it a habit to regularly assess your belongings and let go of things that no longer serve you. By starting the new year with a fresh and organized home, you’ll create a peaceful and harmonious space that sets the tone for a successful and productive year ahead.
Don’t forget about the exterior of your house
While it’s easy to focus on cleaning the interior of your house, it’s equally important to pay attention to the exterior. After all, the outside of your home is the first thing that visitors and passersby see. So, when embarking on your New Year cleaning journey, don’t forget to include the exterior of your house on your checklist.
Remember, the exterior of your house is like the first impression it makes on others. By including it in your New Year cleaning routine, you can start the year fresh, with a clean and well-maintained home both inside and out.
Maintain a clean and organized home throughout the year
Maintaining a clean and organized home throughout the year is essential for a fresh start and a peaceful living environment. After investing time and effort into deep cleaning your house, it’s important to develop habits that will help you sustain the cleanliness and orderliness.
One effective way to maintain a clean home is to establish a daily cleaning routine. Dedicate a few minutes each day to tackling small tasks such as wiping down surfaces, sweeping or vacuuming floors, and doing a quick tidy-up. This prevents dirt and clutter from accumulating, saving you from the overwhelming task of deep cleaning frequently.
Cleaning for the New Year: Ready for the Bang!
Cleaning can seem overwhelming, but with our step-by-step instructions and handy tips, you’ll be able to tackle even the messiest of spaces. A clean and organized home not only brings a sense of calm and clarity but also sets the tone for a productive and successful year ahead. So roll up your sleeves, put on your favorite cleaning playlist, and get ready to transform your living space into a sanctuary of cleanliness. Here’s to a fresh and sparkling start to the new year!