In Chinese society, "On the 28th, wash away the dirtiness" is an important traditional custom, especially in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and mainland China, carrying deep cultural significance. As the Lunar New Year approaches, households are busy cleaning, a lively atmosphere that undoubtedly heralds the arrival of the new year. Failing to do a proper spring cleaning may affect the mood during the New Year period. This custom not only enhances family cohesion but also allows everyone to feel a sense of renewal in the new year.

Origin and Meaning of "On the 28th, wash away the dirtiness"

Origin of the Custom:

Religious Perspective: In ancient times, people believed that cleaning the home could drive away evil spirits.
Feng Shui Concept: The dirt of the old year symbolizes misfortune, and spring cleaning is a preparation to bring good luck for the new year.

"Dirty" not only means unclean but can also metaphorically refer to bad luck or difficulties in life. Therefore, everyone "cleans up" on the 28th day of the 12th month of lunar calendar, symbolizing the removal of bad luck and welcoming positive energy.

Best Days for Spring Cleaning

Here are the specific auspicious days for spring cleaning in 2025. It is recommended to avoid cleaning on days that clash with your zodiac sign. If unable to clean on the auspicious days, early planning and dividing the tasks by area is suggested. Additionally, "spring cleaning" can be combined with family gatherings to enhance family bonds while cleaning.

Date for Spring Cleaning	Lunar Date	Zodiac Clash
January 4, 2025 (Sat)	5th Day of the 12th Month	🐰Rabbit
January 6, 2025 (Mon)	7th Day of the 12th Month	🐍Snake
January 9, 2025 (Thu)	10th Day of the 12th Month	🐵Monkey
January 12, 2025 (Sun)	13th Day of the 12th Month	🐷Pig
January 15, 2025 (Wed)	16th Day of the 12th Month	🐯Tiger
January 18, 2025 (Sat)	19th Day of the 12th Month	🐍Snake
January 22, 2025 (Wed)	23rd Day of the 12th Month	🐔Rooster
January 23, 2025 (Thu)	24th Day of the 12th Month	🐶Dog
January 25, 2025 (Sat)	26th Day of the 12th Month	🐭Rat
January 27, 2025 (Mon)	28th Day of the 12th Month	🐯Tiger

Detailed Steps for Spring Cleaning

Plan Tasks: Assign specific responsibilities to each family member.
Prepare Cleaning Supplies: List items needed for purchase, such as cloths, brooms, cleaning agents, and garbage bags.
Decluttering Techniques: For each item, ask yourself: "Does this item have practical value?" "When was the last time I used it?"
Step-by-Step Approach:
•   Day 1: Living room and common areas
•   Day 2: Kitchen and bathrooms
•   Day 3: Bedrooms and storage spaces

Vacuum Cleaner, Floor Cleaner and Robot Vacuum Recommendations

Product		Features
Vacuum Cleaner	Mi BHR8230EN Vacuum Cleaner G20 Lite	[Fortress Exclusive] maximum of 18000Pa powerful suction white light dust detection technology reveal hidden dirt and stains 2+1 functional brush head set 45-minute maximum battery life five-stage deep filtration preventing secondary pollution
	Mi BHR8827HK Vacuum Cleaner G20 Max	[Fortress Exclusive] up to 180AW powerful suction special pet grooming brush high-definition LED display searchlight dust display technology 12 cone dust gas separation long battery life 99.9% high efficiency filtration high-speed mini electric brush
	DYSON Digital Slim Origin vacuum	no loss of suction 30% lighter powerful cleaning everywhere
Floor Cleaner	DYSON V12s Detect Slim Submarine wet and dry vacuum cleaner	deep cleaning power now washes hard floors all in one machine remove spills and tough stains
	DYSON Digital Slim Submarine wet and dry vacuum cleaner	versatile cleaning now washes hard floors all in one machine lightweight wet and dry vacuum cleaner
	Mi BHR8809GB Truclean W20 Wet Dry Vacuum	three-in-one suction, mopping and washing function, clean wet and dry garbage real-time running water washing innovative comb-tooth scraper to reduce hair tangles clean the roller brush with one click 2500mAh large capacity battery
Robot Vacuum Cleaner	Mi BHR9217GB Robot Vacuum X20 Max	hot water mop pad washing and drying extendable mop arm for in-depth edge cleaning 8000Pa powerful suction fan blower anti-tangle hair-cutting brush precise obstacle avoidance system smart carpet detection with auto mop pad lifting
	Mi BHR8154GB Robot Vacuum S20+	[Fortress Exclusive] precise laser-guided edge vacuuming and mopping smart carpet detection with auto mop pad raising 6000Pa powerful suction fan blower 5200mAh battery up to 170 minutes of continuous cleaning water tank capacity has been upgraded to 290mL
	Mi BHR8125EN Robot Vacuum X20+	[Fortress Exclusive] dual air duct automatic dust collection all-in-one station auto-lifting mop pads 6000Pa powerful suction fan blower obstacle avoidance dual rotating mop pads around 120 minutes maximum battery life

Cleaning Tips for the Eight Major Trouble Spots in the Home

1. Kitchen Stove

Use baking soda and hot water to soak the stovetop for easy grease removal
Disassemble the stove top and clean the crevices with a toothbrush

2. Refrigerator

Inside: clear expired food and organize with storage containers
Outside: wipe down handles to prevent bacterial growth

3. Bathroom Sink

Use white vinegar and lemon juice to remove stains and eliminate stubborn dirt

4. Toilet

Recommend to use a dedicated brush with antibacterial liquid for thorough disinfection

5. Tiles

Use a toothbrush in the gaps and spray with a mold remover

6. Shower Curtain

Soak the shower curtain in bleach and then wash it on a low cycle in the washing machine

7. Windows

Recommend to use a glass scraper, cleaning from top to bottom

8. Washing Machine

Clean the filter and inner drum to ensure clothes are clean without residue. Detailed cleaning methods can be found in the Washing Machine Cleaning Guide

Using Pomelo Leaves for Cleaning

Pomelo leaves have been viewed as a purifying plant since ancient times.

Preparation Steps:

Chop pomelo leaves and boil them in clean water
Add a small amount of salt and let it cool to a suitable temperature
Soak a towel in the mixture and use it for mopping or wiping

Feng Shui Taboo:

After use, promptly dispose of the water; do not leave it in the home overnight
Avoid using the pomelo leaf water to wash rice containers to prevent "washing away wealth"

Taboos and Precautions During Spring Cleaning

1. Garbage Disposal

Garbage should be cleared promptly during spring cleaning to avoid accumulation.

2. Do Not Move Wealth Position

The arrangement of wealth positions should remain fixed; avoid moving Feng Shui items.

3. Avoid Negative Emotions

Maintain a relaxed and happy mood during the cleaning process.

4. Cleaning Order for Doors and Windows

Clean windows from the inside out, symbolizing "taking away bad luck".

Spring cleaning is not just a cleaning task; it is a ritual for welcoming the new year for oneself and one's family. In addition to cleaning the living environment, it also helps to organize one’s feelings, allowing each family member to feel a sense of new beginnings as the new year approaches. Everyone can make good use of these home cleaning strategies, start their spring cleaning plans, and enjoy the fresh atmosphere of the new year.