What if spring cleaning was more than just cleaning the house? Did you know that there are many health benefits when you clean your home? Even more so during spring cleaning. Here are some examples:
Cleaning, a proven de-stressor
Clutter breeds stress. It's not surprising that cleaning reduces stress and anxiety. Cleaning products with lemon or lavender scents can help you relax more quickly. Studies show the relaxing effect of these aromas and the positive feeling they generate. They are also part of the ingredients used in do-it-yourself cleaning products.
Cleaning helps you breathe easier
If you are prone to allergies and asthma attacks when spring arrives, don't blame it all on pollen. Dust and pet hair are powerful triggers, especially for children.
Cleaning improves our mood
A clean house that stays clean has such a euphoric effect that you'll want it to be a recurring one. Studies show that people who perceived their homes as stressful, mainly because of clutter and unfinished projects, were more likely to become depressed during the day. This increased their fatigue after work. In contrast, those whose homes were less cluttered ended their day with more energy.
It gets us moving
There is evidence of a link between physical activity and cleanliness. The cleaner a home is, the more active the lives of its occupants. Just burning calories by cleaning is a good start, but the link could be to self-discipline and the ability to act on our goals. People committed to keeping their homes clean could use this dynamic in other areas of their lives, such as fitness.
It can increase productivity
Spring cleaning the office counts as much as spring cleaning the house, especially if clutter in your papers and files slows down your work. Put "tidy up my workspace" on your agenda! A project that could energize you and make you more productive and happier in your work.
Spring cleaning for a better sleep
Are you not sleeping well? Forget the sleeping pills and try cleaning your room instead. People who make their beds every day increase their chance of sleeping well by 19%, according to the National Sleep Foundation. A study by that organization also found that 75% of respondents slept better on clean sheets, which made them feel better. Who knew that doing laundry had such benefits?
Cleaning prevents illness
Housekeeping is the perfect time to clean up the stains that are overlooked during routine cleaning, for example, small appliances filled with old crumbs, oil splatters, or a washer containing mould and bacteria from dirty laundry. Cleaning removes any food contamination. And a washing cycle with vinegar and baking soda removes any embedded microbes.
Cleaning improves heart health
Numerous studies show that sitting for just half an hour less per day reduces the risk of fatal coronary heart disease. Even low-intensity activity like housework is great for heart health. Get out the vacuum cleaner: you'll feel great!
