AS the Hari Raya Aidilfitri approaches, families are gearing up not just for the celebrations but also for the annual deep cleaning ritual.
A sparkling clean home sets the stage for a welcoming and festive atmosphere.
But beyond aesthetics, research suggests that a tidy and well-organised home can significantly reduce stress, enhance productivity and even improve indoor air quality.
Rather than rushing through the cleaning process, a strategic approach can make the task more efficient and less overwhelming. With that in mind, here are 10 research-backed spring cleaning tips to help you refresh your home just in time for Hari Raya.
Start with a decluttering strategy
A study by Princeton University found that clutter competes for attention, making it harder to focus and increasing stress levels. Before you dive into dusting and scrubbing, start by decluttering.
Use the "Four-Box Method"—label four boxes as ‘keep,’ ‘donate,’ ‘trash,’ and ‘relocate’ to sort through your belongings efficiently.
Pay extra attention to high-traffic areas such as the living room, dining space and kitchen, where guests are most likely to gather. Decluttering first prevents you from cleaning around unnecessary items and sets the stage for a more thorough cleaning session.
Work from top to bottom
The American Cleaning Institute (ACI) advised cleaning high surfaces first to avoid recontaminating lower areas as dust falls due to gravity.
Start with ceiling fans, overhead shelves and light fixtures before moving down to furniture and floors. This method ensures that dust and debris do not settle on freshly cleaned surfaces, preventing the need for repeated cleaning. Consider using a microfiber duster with an extendable handle for hard-to-reach areas.
Improve indoor air quality with the right cleaning products
Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health warned that synthetic fragrances in cleaning products can trigger allergies and respiratory issues.
Swap out chemical-laden cleaners for natural alternatives like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. These options are not only safer for your health but also more environmentally friendly.
Open windows while cleaning to allow fresh air to circulate, removing trapped pollutants and musty odors.
Use the ‘20/10 Rule’ to prevent burnout
The Pomodoro Technique, a time management method, has been proven to enhance productivity by breaking tasks into manageable intervals.
Cleaning can be overwhelming, especially when tackling multiple rooms. Adopt the ‘20/10 Rule’—clean for 20 minutes, then take a 10-minute break.
This structured approach prevents fatigue and keeps you motivated. Play upbeat music during your cleaning intervals to make the process feel less like a chore and more like an energising activity.
Prioritise high-touch surfaces for a germ-free home
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that bacteria and viruses can linger on surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches and remote controls for hours or even days.
Disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily using alcohol-based wipes or a diluted bleach solution. This step is crucial, especially with guests visiting during Raya.
Don’t forget to wipe down commonly overlooked items like refrigerator handles, mobile phones and light switches.
Deep clean your carpets and sofas for a fresher home
A study published in the American Lung Association found that carpets trap allergens, dust mites, and bacteria, which can negatively impact indoor air quality.
Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture thoroughly, and if possible, use a steam cleaner to kill germs and remove embedded dirt. For a natural deodoriser, sprinkle baking soda on carpets, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum it up to eliminate odors and freshen up your space.
Organise your kitchen for efficiency
This Life Uncluttered in their portal found that a cluttered kitchen can lead to unhealthy eating habits, as people are more likely to snack on processed foods when surrounded by mess.
Take time to declutter kitchen countertops, organise your spice rack, and clean out expired pantry items. Arrange frequently used utensils and ingredients within easy reach to streamline meal preparation during Raya feasts. For extra efficiency, label containers and use drawer dividers to maintain order.
Wash your curtains and upholstery for better air quality
Studies show that fabric accumulates pollutants, dust, and allergens over time, which can cause allergies and respiratory issues.
Wash curtains, cushion covers, and throws at least every 3-6 months. If machine washing isn’t an option, use a fabric freshener spray and vacuum upholstery with a brush attachment to remove dust.
This step will leave your home smelling fresh and feeling revitalised for Raya.
Use natural light to spot dirt and streaks
Sunlight reveals smudges and dust better than artificial lighting, making it easier to identify areas that need extra cleaning.
Schedule your window and mirror cleaning during the daytime to take advantage of natural light. Use a microfiber cloth and a vinegar-water solution to achieve a streak-free shine.
Clean windows not only enhance visibility but also allow more light to brighten your home, creating a welcoming ambiance for guests.
Create a maintenance schedule to stay on top of cleaning
Studies show that maintaining cleanliness consistently is easier than tackling a massive deep clean all at once.
Instead of waiting until the next Hari Raya for another deep clean, implement a daily, weekly and monthly cleaning schedule. Assign small, manageable tasks for each day—such as wiping down kitchen counters daily, vacuuming weekly and deep-cleaning one area of the home per month.
This approach ensures your home stays tidy long after the festive season.
Clean with ease
A clean and organised home sets the perfect backdrop for a joyful and stress-free Hari Raya celebration.
By incorporating these research-backed cleaning strategies, you can ensure your space remains fresh, inviting and ready to welcome guests.
Whether it's decluttering, deep cleaning, or improving air quality, taking a structured approach will make the process smoother and more effective.