Spring cleaning… just hearing the phrase might make you groan. The time of year is coming when your parents demand that you declutter or clean and start organizing everything in sight. This makes a lot of people, especially students, question whether spring cleaning is really necessary or just an outdated tradition. 

The Origins of Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning dates back centuries and was originally necessary. In the past, homes were heated with fireplaces and lit by candles, leaving a layer of soot and grime by the end of winter. As the weather started to warm up, families would open their windows and scrub their homes clean. Although modern heating and lighting have eliminated this need, the tradition remains in place. 

The Benefits of Spring Cleaning

Even though we no longer deal with soot-covered walls, spring cleaning has its advantages.

1. Better focus and productivity
   1. A cluttered workspace can lead to a cluttered mind. Cleaning and organizing can reduce stress and improve concentration, which is helpful for high school students who must balance school activities and social lives.
2. Healthier environment
   1. Dust, mold, and allergens can build up over time, causing allergies and other issues. A deep clean can help you feel better and breathe easier. 
3. A fresh start for the season 
   1. Just as spring symbolizes new beginnings, cleaning can give you a sense of renewal and motivate you to tackle your goals for this season.
4. Less stress later 
   1. Regular deep cleanings can prevent messes from building up, making any future cleaning easier. 

Do You Have to Do It?

Spring cleaning isn’t necessarily a must anymore, but maintaining a tidy space definitely has its benefits. Instead of an entirely overwhelming deep clean, you can try some other things. 

1. Declutter a little at a time: Get rid of clothes you no longer wear or items you don’t use anymore.
2. Tidy up your space: A clean desk can help you focus as well as improve your productivity.
3. Do a “mini” spring cleaning: Instead of cleaning all your areas at once, pick one area to clean each weekend or organize small areas to minimize the work you must do each day. 

Bottom Line

Although spring cleaning may not seem essential, it does have its benefits. Instead of dreading it, you can think of it as a way to reset your space and mindset. Additionally, getting it done means fewer nagging reminders from your parents, which is a win!