Spring Cleaning Around the World: A Journey to Fresh Starts

The first warm breeze of spring drifts through my window, we can finally see the sun again and carrying with it the unmistakable scent of new beginnings and a fresh start. The days are getting longer, the birds are singing louder, and suddenly, I feel the urge to declutter, scrub, and refresh every inch of my space. But instead of reaching for my usual cleaning supplies I've decided this year, I want to do things differently. Less waste, fewer chemicals, and a deeper connection to the ritual itself. I'm always curious about how people around the world embrace the change of seasons? Do they also scrub, sweep, and start fresh? With that thought, I grab a cup of tea and set off on a little journey no passport required into the world of spring cleaning.

First Stop: Japan – A Mindful Approach to Cleaning

I start in Japan, where Osoji (大掃除) isn’t just about cleanliness it’s a practice in mindfulness. Traditionally done before New Year’s, the same deep-cleaning philosophy extends to spring.

I picture myself in a Japanese home: Sliding doors open to let in fresh air, the scent of tatami mats and citrus lingering. Cleaning here isn’t rushed or frantic it’s intentional. I learn that many Japanese homes use simple, natural cleaning solutions like rice water, vinegar, and baking soda, all of which are biodegradable and kind to the planet.

Inspired, I decide to swap out my chemical sprays for a DIY vinegar and lemon mix. As I spritz and wipe, I realise—cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore. It can be a quiet, meditative act.

Next Stop: Iran – “Shaking the House” for a New Beginning

From Japan, I travel (in my mind) to Iran, where Khaneh Tekani (literally “shaking the house”) is in full swing. In the weeks leading up to Nowruz (Persian New Year), families go all out dusting, scrubbing, washing carpets, even repairing furniture.

Looking around my own space, I realise how much I hold onto “just in case.” Inspired, I start a donation box gently worn clothes, unused kitchenware, books I’ve been meaning to pass on. And just like that, my space feels lighter.

A Quick Visit to China – Sweeping Away Bad Luck

I land in China, where the belief is that dust and clutter trap bad energy (Qi). Traditionally, people deep-clean their homes before Lunar New Year, but many extend the ritual into spring.

Sweeping is a big deal here, and not just for practical reasons it symbolises sweeping away the past to make room for new opportunities. Many also burn dried herbs, like mugwort, to cleanse their space naturally.

A Breezy Stop in Sweden – Minimalist, Sustainable Vibes

Now, I head to Sweden, where spring cleaning—vårstädning is all about simplicity. Swedes aren’t about overconsumption; they’re about keeping only what adds value.

Taking a cue, I gather my laundry and hang it outside instead of tossing it in the dryer. As fresh air and sunlight do their thing, I can’t help but think why haven’t I been doing this all along?

A Stop in Mexico – The Power of Citrus and Smoke

Mexico greets me with warmth both in temperature and in spirit. Here, spring cleaning is a full-body, sensory experience. Families use lime and salt to scrub wooden surfaces, and many burn copal resin to purify their homes.

I reach for a lemon from my own fruit bowl, slicing it open. The fresh citrus scent fills the room as I wipe down my kitchen counters. There’s something grounding about it, like connecting to a tradition far older than me.

A Final Stop in South Africa – Cleaning with a Community Spirit

For my last stop, I land in South Africa, where spring cleaning isn’t just an individual task it’s a community event. In the spirit of Ubuntu (the philosophy of shared humanity), families and neighbours often help one another clean and declutter, swapping stories and laughter as they work.

Music plays in the background. Hands move in rhythm. Clothes, furniture, and appliances that are no longer needed are passed along to those who can use them. Cleaning here isn’t just about tidying up it’s about connection.

Bringing It Home: My Own Spring Cleaning Ritual

As my journey comes to an end, I feel lighter not just because my home is cleaner, but because I’ve found new meaning in the ritual of spring cleaning.

I take a little from each tradition:

• 🌿 From Japan, I embrace mindful cleaning and natural ingredients.
• 🏡 From Iran, I commit to repairing and donating instead of discarding.
• 🧹 From China, I sweep with intention, clearing space for new beginnings.
• 🌱 From Sweden, I simplify—less is truly more.
• 🍋 From Mexico, I use citrus for cleaning and embrace the power of scent.
• 👭 From South Africa, I remember that cleaning can be a shared experience.

Spring cleaning isn’t just about making my space look nice. It’s about welcoming fresh energy, embracing sustainability, and creating a home that truly feels like a sanctuary.

And honestly? I think this might just be the best spring clean I’ve ever had.

So, what’s your spring cleaning ritual? And which of these traditions do you think you’ll try this year? 🌸💚