Why Do People Clean When They’re Stressed?
Life can often feel chaotic, filled with responsibilities, deadlines, and unexpected challenges. During such times, many people turn to cleaning as a means of coping with stress. But what is it about cleaning that provides relief? In this blog, we’ll explore the psychological and emotional reasons behind this behaviour, how cleaning can serve as a form of self-care, and why it might be worth encouraging children to engage in tidying up as well.
The Psychological Connection Between Cleaning and Stress Relief
Cleaning is often seen as a mundane chore, but it can have profound psychological benefits. When life feels overwhelming, the act of cleaning provides a sense of control. Here are several reasons why people clean when they’re stressed:
1. Restoring Order Amidst Chaos
When external circumstances become unpredictable or overwhelming, cleaning can offer a tangible way to regain control. Tidying up a cluttered space creates a sense of order, allowing individuals to focus on something manageable. This act of organisation can help ease feelings of anxiety, making it easier to confront other stressors.
2. Mindfulness and Presence
Cleaning can serve as a form of mindfulness. Engaging in repetitive, simple tasks—such as dusting, sweeping, or folding laundry—allows the mind to focus on the present moment. This can be especially helpful when stress leads to racing thoughts. By concentrating on the physical act of cleaning, individuals can momentarily detach from their worries.
3. A Sense of Accomplishment
Completing a cleaning task can provide a sense of achievement, no matter how small. This accomplishment can boost mood and self-esteem, offering a much-needed counterbalance to feelings of inadequacy or overwhelm. For example, decluttering a room or organising a workspace can foster a sense of pride and progress.
4. The Physical Release of Stress
Cleaning often requires physical activity, which can help release pent-up energy and tension. This physical movement triggers the release of endorphins—chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. So, not only does cleaning create a tidy space, but it can also contribute to emotional well-being.
The Role of Routine in Coping with Stress
Incorporating cleaning into a daily routine can provide structure during turbulent times. Establishing a cleaning schedule can create predictability, which may be comforting when other aspects of life feel erratic. Regularly engaging in these tasks can also signal to the brain that it’s time to shift gears from stress to self-care.
For children, having cleaning chores can foster a sense of responsibility and autonomy. When children participate in household tasks, they learn valuable life skills and gain confidence in their ability to contribute to the family unit.
Cleaning as a Form of Self-Care
Self-care encompasses various activities that promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Cleaning can be a form of self-care, offering an opportunity for individuals to prioritise their environment and themselves. Here’s how:
1. Creating a Calming Environment
A clean and organised space can have a profound effect on mood and mental health. Clutter can lead to feelings of anxiety and overwhelm, whereas a tidy environment promotes calmness and relaxation. By cleaning, individuals can create a sanctuary that nurtures their emotional well-being.
2. Setting the Stage for Relaxation
Once a space is clean, it can become more inviting for relaxation activities. Whether it’s curling up with a good book, practising mindfulness, or spending time with family, a tidy space sets the stage for these positive experiences.
3. Boosting Self-Esteem
Taking the time to clean and organise a space can boost self-esteem. It allows individuals to take ownership of their environment and, in turn, their lives. When they step back and appreciate their hard work, it can lead to an enhanced sense of self-worth.
Balancing Cleaning with Emotional Awareness
While cleaning can be an effective coping strategy, it’s important to be aware of its limitations. Relying solely on cleaning as a means to manage stress may inadvertently mask underlying issues. It’s essential to address the root causes of stress and anxiety through healthy coping mechanisms, such as therapy, open conversations, and relaxation techniques.
Encouraging children to clean and tidy up their spaces can also help them learn to cope with stress. By fostering an environment where cleaning is viewed as a positive outlet for emotions, children can develop healthy habits early on.
Strategies to Incorporate Cleaning into Stress Management
Set Aside Time for Cleaning: Dedicate specific times during the week for cleaning tasks. This establishes a routine and helps integrate cleaning into daily life.
Make it Fun: Engage children in cleaning by turning it into a game. Set a timer and see how much can be tidied in a few minutes. Play music while cleaning to create a fun atmosphere.
Create Cleaning Zones: Designate specific areas for cleaning, encouraging children to take ownership of their spaces. This can instil a sense of responsibility.
Practice Mindfulness While Cleaning: Encourage mindfulness by focusing on the sensations involved in cleaning—how the cloth feels against the surface, the sound of vacuuming, or the smell of cleaning products.
Reflect on Feelings: After cleaning, take a moment to discuss how it felt. Did it help ease stress? Encourage children to recognise the emotional benefits of cleaning.
Cleaning when stressed is a natural behaviour that many people engage in to cope with life’s challenges. It offers a sense of control, a form of mindfulness, and an opportunity for self-care. By understanding the psychological benefits of cleaning and integrating it into daily life, individuals can cultivate a healthier emotional environment for themselves and their families.
As we encourage kindness and responsibility in children, teaching them about the emotional benefits of cleaning can be a valuable lesson in self-care and stress management. Together, we can foster an environment that nurtures both cleanliness and emotional well-being.
Authors: Brodi Killen, Stephanie Mace and Samantha Pearce
Educational and Developmental Psychologists and Counselling Psychologist - With You Allied Health Directors.