Spring is synonymous with renewal, rebirth and rejuvenation. Daylight increases and the temperature gets warmer, flowers bloom and nature awakens after the Winter months. It is the perfect time to let go of the stagnant and heavy energy of Winter, to plant new seeds and declutter our minds and our homes. Cleaning your home can appear like a daunting task, but you can turn it into a very pleasant and cleansing experience.
History of Spring Cleaning
Spring cleaning is an annual tradition that takes root in old religious and cultural practices. For example, Iranians would thoroughly clean their houses before Persian New Year which occurs on the first day of Spring every year. The Jewish would cleanse their home in anticipation of the “Passover” holiday in Spring. In North America, it was common practice to clean windows from the soot, dust furniture and clean floors from mud and wood once Winter was over. Many other cultures also celebrate Spring cleaning in their own ways.
Tips for Spring Cleaning
Cleaning your home can seem like an overwhelming and laborious task to undertake. However, if you take it one step at a time and incorporate mindfulness, you have the power to make it enjoyable and refreshing. You can diffuse an energising essential oil and put your favourite music on while cleaning away. You can listen to a podcast or chat to a friend over the phone while sweeping and scrubbing. You can also take this time practice a cleansing ritual and let go of stale energy and negative thought patterns while planting new seeds for the year to come. We made a list of our top tips to get you ready for Spring cleaning.
1. List everything you wish to clean
All of those neglected corners, window grooves, cluttered cupboards, door tracks, grimy shower screens and oily oven all need a little bit of love from time to time! Start with the obvious, regular cleaning duties and add all those extra areas you would like to refresh on a list that you can work through in your own time.
2. Declutter
Before working through your list, start with decluttering every room and cupboard to make more space. Spring is a great time to let go of belongings you have been holding on to but no longer need. You can donate items to friends or a charity organisations or repurpose them!
3. Reorganise
After decluttering, you can now reorganise how you store and keep your belongings. You can use baskets, pull out drawers and storage boxes to organise everything in a way that is practical and accessible. You may find you want to reorganise your kitchen cupboards or pantry, your bathroom vanity or your linen press. This is a great time to start fresh.
4. Clean one area at a time
Begin with cleaning the largest living areas, and work your way through to the smaller spaces. Dust, clean and wipe cupboards, windows, blinds and all neglected areas before attacking the more obvious benchtops, bedside tables or vanities. Finish with vacuuming and mopping the floor.
5. Use natural cleaning products
Cleaning products contain a cocktail of harmful chemicals for both the environment and health. Use natural cleaning products to keep yourself and your family safe, while protecting the environment. You can make them yourself or use premade eco-friendly options.
How Essential Oils can support Spring Cleaning
Almost all essential oils have some antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties, making them allies when cleaning. Not only can they help disinfect surfaces, they also have many therapeutics benefits, making them safe to use around the home. They will also make your home smell amazing! Below are some of our favourite cleaning recipes using essential oils.
