The History of Household Cleaning

Did you know that people have been cleaning their homes since 2800 B.C.? From the ancient civilisation era when humans established permanent dwellings to today’s AI-generated homes, cleanliness has always been considered one of the main tasks in maintaining a healthy and hygienic indoor environment.

However, the techniques, methodologies, and supplies used in household cleaning have evolved significantly. Early civilisation had limited options and procedures to keep dirt, grime, and stains at bay. However, you can’t deny the cleaning habits and rituals we learned from our ancestors to maintain good personal hygiene and a clean abode.

So, let’s explore the fascinating history of household cleaning dating back to early civilisations. This article includes a complete overview of the evolutionary journey of cleaning practices from its early era to the present day.

Let’s Get Started!

1. Ancient Civilisations (2800 B.C.): Use of Water, Sand & Animal Fat to Clean Homes

The evidence of household cleaning comes from ancient origins, such as the Egyptians, Greeks, Babylonians, and Romans. Water played a key role in house cleaning chores in 2800 B.C.

Earlier, it was only hot water to scrub the walls and floors of dwellings. However, Babylonians developed the early form of soap by mixing animal fat with charcoal ash to tackle stains and grime.

Meanwhile, the Egyptians formed their soap using alkaline salts and vegetable oil for multiple purposes, from personal hygiene to washing floors and laundry. On the contrary, the Greeks introduced methods of using ashes, sand and clay for washing.

Believe it or not, professionals now opt for natural alternatives, such as oil-based soaps and hot water, to perform cheap end of lease cleaning Geelong. However, they combine old-school hacks with new techniques and advanced tools to help fully recover the bond money without any disagreement.

2. The Middle Ages (5^th to 16^th Centuries): Decline in Hygiene Levels

This era was known as a regression in hygiene levels and cleanliness practices. Homes were often left dirty, and people rarely bathed during that era. The ignorance of cleanliness and adequate hygiene became the prime cause of contaminated diseases and life-threatening viruses.

It became breeding for malaria, influenza, smallpox, and serious fatalities. One of the main reasons behind this decline is scarcity of effective cleaning products and lack of awareness.

3. Early Modern Era (1500s -1700s): Resurgence of Cleaning Practices

After the dark phase, people began to understand the correlation between hygiene, clean homes and disease prevention. In 1670, a scientific breakthrough prompted a significant transformation towards maintaining a clean, well-organised and shiny home.

By the 17^th Century, cleanliness transformed from a mere practice to a customary norm. Still, there was a lack of awareness regarding germ infestation and their removal. Cleaning was often considered a luxury as most people in rural areas didn’t have access to cleaning tools and proper methods.

One of the most common house cleaning practices during the 17^th Century was sweeping the floors using a straw or reed-based broom to remove dust, dirt, and debris from the home as there were lack of budget-friendly cleaning solutions.

Fun Fact: Carpets, rugs and other heavy textiles were hung outside, and dirt was beaten out of them using a sturdy metal or wooden rod.

4. The Industrial Revolution (18th -19th Century): The Rise of Modern Cleaning

Believe it or not! The Industrial Revolution drastically evolved traditional household cleaning practices. There was an uninterrupted production of antibacteiral soaps, cleaning products, stain removers and much more. These products made cleaning easier and more effective. You can easily find a range of cleaning products in the form of liquid, solvents and powder to clean different surfaces with ease.

In addition, new-age technologies, such as washing machines and vacuum cleaners, made household cleaning more effective. Vacuum cleaners made removing dust and dirt from carpets, floors, and other tight spaces.

Fun Fact: Vacuum cleaners and washing machines were initially considered luxury items, but today, they are essential cleaning tools in most homes in Geelong.

5. The 20th Century and a Present Era: Increased Demand for Cleaning Services

The early 20^th Century witnessed the development of high-end cleaning equipment and various store-bought cleaning products. Heavy-duty vacuum cleaners, floor scrubbers, dishwashers, and washing machines played a crucial role in evolving day-to-day cleaning practices. People started engaging in decluttering practices, cleaning toilets, removing stubborn stains, etc.

However, this era also saw a high demand for professional and detailed cleaning services for their homes. This has brought revolution in the cleaning industry as more and more companies established in the market. You can hire professionals for an expert end of lease cleaning Geelong, carpet cleaning, house and commercial cleaning, etc and achieve a shiny and germ-free space.

6. Green Cleaning Have Come Full Circle

Hot water, vinegar, salt, and other ingredients were some of the ingredients used in ancient and modern-day cleaning practices. In today’s era, people are concerned about the environmental impact of traditional cleaning products, such as ammonia and bleach.

The frequent use of these products can cause respiratory problems, skin and eye irritation and other serious health diseases. This has shifted people towards green or eco-friendly alternatives to traditional cleaners. You can use:

• White vinegar as a multi-purpose cleaner to remove stains and grime
• Microfiber cloths to remove dust and debris from hard surfaces
• Baking soda to freshen up your carpets or unclog garbage disposal
• Lemon to disinfect or degrease surfaces
• Toothpaste to remove stains
• Hydrogen peroxide to kill mould and mildew
• Hot water to wash dirty bed sheets, etc

Many professional follow these hacks for a quality end of lease cleaning Geelong and help tenants pass their rental inspection without any dispute. You can also follow sustainable practices and maintain a clean home.

A Guide to the  Evolving Saga of Household Cleaning

Wrapping up

Tracing the history of household cleaning is evidence of human evolution. From ancient civilisation to the new-age era, there has been a significant change in cleaning practices, mindsets, techniques, and methods.

However, the objective remains the same: achieving a clean, shiny, and organized living space. You can amalgamate traditional practices with cutting-edge technologies to attain the desired cleaning results.