Although cleaning is considered a chore by many, we’re all familiar with the sense of accomplishment after tidying up a messy room, giving the kitchen a deep clean or reaching the end of the laundry pile. Cleaning is therapeutic for the most part, and although a relatively mindless task, it’s greatly beneficial for mental health. As we welcome spring, starting the season with a positive mindset and freshly clean house couldn’t be easier — and with the eco-conscious products now available, the prospect is even more appealing.
There’s some science behind keeping things clean and organised, and how this can benefit your health. A study conducted by NiCole Keith at Indiana University involved 998 African Americans between the ages of 49-65, a demographic known to have an increased risk of heart disease, and studied their physical health in relation to cleaning. They concluded that participants who kept their houses clean were more active and healthier than those who didn’t, returning better results for cleaning than going for a 30 minute walk. “If you spend your day dusting, cleaning, doing laundry, you’re active. This will inform interventions. They won’t take 30 minutes to go for a walk, but they’ll take half an hour to clean,” said NiCole.