Brits are a house-proud nation – Here is how to get ahead with your spring clean

It’s often said that us Brits are a house-proud nation. And thanks to our tempestuous weather perhaps that’s no surprise. But our cleaning impulses are governed by more than just the unpredictable nature of our climate. The need to clean our homes is engrained in our cultural, spiritual and philosophical psyche.

And nowhere is this better exemplified than in the traditional Spring Clean. After the dark, cold and dreary winter months, spring is clearly a time of renewal, and following our hibernation the need to wipe the slate clean – both literally and philosophically – is self-evident.

This urge has roots way back in history – some say as far back as 3000BC. And it’s a global phenomenon. These traditions can be found in places as disparate as Iran, China, Thailand and in ancient Jewish customs. So, when you get the dusters out in March, rest assured you are carrying on the work of your forebears.

Indeed, a recent survey by British Gas, found that a typical British home will spend an impressive 11 hours on its Spring Clean, with an equally laudable 70% of homes undertaking a clean. Additionally, the rigorous nature of the clean itself presents numerous health benefits (not least removing all that dust!), as hoovering for 42 minutes will burn 136 calories, while a good 30-minute polish will burn off 111 calories.