The History of Spring Cleaning, how it’s evolved, and why it’s still a tradition today at Merry Maids
Spring cleaning is an ancient tradition with roots in cultural, religious, and practical needs. It began out of a sense of practicality to air out the home from the soot, dust, and enclosure of the house during the cold winter months. This marked a transition from winter’s confinement to spring’s rebirth. It made sense to perform a deep clean with the arrival of warmer weather and longer days with more sunlight. Spring cleaning was a labor-intensive task that usually involved the entire family. It began with removing rugs and beating them outside, opening windows to let in fresh air, washing walls, scrubbing the floors, and moving furniture. It usually took at least a week to perform all necessary tasks and was back-breaking work, but it was an excellent way to welcome a bright new season.
The tradition continues for good reason!
While removing the rugs to give them a beating outside is not done much today, there is still a lot on the “Spring Cleaning Checklist.” Some examples include wall and woodwork washing, carpet cleaning, kitchen cleaning, cabinet cleaning, and window washing. The arrival of warmer weather means changing your wardrobe from winter to spring and summer apparel, which also means cleaning and organizing those closets. This is a perfect time to discard items no longer used or wanted by donating them to a local charity or church. Don’t forget to change your furnace and/or air cleaner filters to help control the dust and help improve your home’s air quality.
Save time and prepare for success
Today, spring cleaning can still be a big undertaking, and it’s important to make sure you’re truly cleaning your home instead of simply spreading dirt. There are a vast number of cleaning products available today, but knowing how to properly use them can make the process easier and more effective. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent any harm to you, your pets, or delicate surfaces.
Old vs. New: Take this opportunity to update your supply closet to use more eco-friendly products. Merry Maids suggests using “Clean Green” products that are safe, environmentally friendly, and won’t harm sensitive surfaces in your home.
Sponges vs. Microfiber Cloths: Even the cleanest-smelling household sponges can be germ magnets. Instead, opt for a microfiber cloth. Not only are they better at cleaning surfaces, but they’re also machine washable and quick drying, which means they’re less likely to hold onto germs.
Brooms vs. Vacuums: More often than not, brooms push dirt and dust around, rather than collecting it. Instead, dust off your vacuum, literally, and get to work. Don’t forget to show your vacuum a little love before you begin. There’s a strong likelihood you haven’t cleaned the roller brush or changed the HEPA filter since you bought it, and a clean vacuum will perform much more effectively.
Brand Name Glass Cleaner vs. Make-It-Yourself Solutions: Not only can retail cleaners and paper towels be expensive, but they’re also often not as effective as the homemade solution you can make yourself. Mix ¼ cup of vinegar with ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol and a ½ cup of water, and you’ve got a natural, great-performing solution that, when paired with coffee filters as your cloth, can get windows streak-free and sparkling.
Spring cleaning made easier today
Today, most folks have hectic schedules, so spring cleaning is sometimes a lower priority on their endless to-do lists. No worries, assistance is just a phone call or a click away! We recommend using a reputable, bonded, and insured company with a solid Google review rating and reliable references. A heating and cooling company can help with cleaning and tuning up your furnace and A/C, as well as referring you to a duct cleaning service if necessary. Consider a window cleaning company to let that sunshine in. There are many carpet cleaning services to remove winter’s grit and grime from carpet, rugs, and upholstered furniture.
Your local Merry Maids (with a 4.9 Google rating) has been specializing in deep-cleaning homes in your area since 1987. They offer free estimates as well as free advice to get you started on welcoming springtime into your home. Special Note: For a FREE “Spring Cleaning Checklist” and a list of Tips and Tricks for a successful spring cleaning, contact your local Merry Maids. They’ll be glad to email them to you and answer any questions you may have.
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