8 Steps to Spring Cleaning & Decluttering Your Home For Chinese New Year

As we gallop towards the Year of the Fire Horse on 17 February 2026, the ancient tradition of Da Sao Chu (大扫除), or the Big Clean, takes centre stage. This isn’t just about sparkling surfaces; it’s a profound ritual of sweeping away the old year’s misfortunes, stagnant energy, and accumulated “junk,” both physical and metaphorical, to create an inviting space for new luck and prosperity. For the dynamic and ambitious Fire Horse year, a truly refreshed home is paramount.

This guide offers a room-by-room approach to transform your living space, inviting vibrant qi (energy) and good fortune into your life.

Before diving in, understand the essence of this tradition. Every item in your home holds energy. Clutter, broken items, and neglected corners accumulate negative or stagnant qi (Sha Qi), blocking opportunities and good fortune (Sheng Qi).

The goal is to create flow, light, and space for the Fire Horse’s energetic spirit to roam freely within your home. Remember, the general rule is to clean from top to bottom and from the inside out, pushing old energy towards the main door.

5 Spring Cleaning Rules

1. “One Year Rule”: If you haven’t used it, worn it, or loved it in the past year, consider letting it go. The Fire Horse year values efficiency and progress.
2. Repair or Remove: Fix anything broken. If it cannot be repaired, it’s best to discard it. Broken items symbolise broken promises or stagnant progress.
3. Clean High and Low: Dust ceilings, light fixtures, and wall art. Don’t forget under furniture, behind appliances, and inside cabinets.
4. Open Windows & Doors: Allow fresh air to circulate during and after cleaning to flush out stale energy.
5. Post-Cleanse Smudge (Optional): After cleaning, some prefer to light a small amount of sandalwood or use an essential oil diffuser with cleansing scents (like citrus or frankincense) to purify the air.

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8 Spring Cleaning & Decluttering Guide

1. Main Entrance & Hallway

This is the mouth of your home (气口，or Qi Kou), where all energy enters. It’s crucial for inviting wealth and opportunity.

Remove all excess shoes, old newspapers, junk mail, and anything blocking the path. If you have a console table, clear it of unnecessary items. Wipe down the door (inside and out), doorframe, and doorbell. Sweep and mop the floor thoroughly. Polish any metallic fixtures. Ensure good lighting. Consider adding a vibrant, easy-to-care-for plant (like a Money Plant) to invite growth. Place a fresh, auspicious doormat.

2. Living Room

As the central gathering space, the living room dictates the harmony and social luck of the household.

Go through books, magazines, DVDs, remote controls, and decorative items. Are there things you no longer read or admire? Clear surfaces of knick-knacks and dust them thoroughly. Vacuum or mop under sofas and rugs. Clean windows and curtains to let in maximum light. Wipe down all furniture, including legs and undersides. Arrange furniture to promote easy conversation and flow. Consider adding fresh flowers (avoid thorny ones) or auspicious plants. Fluff cushions and ensure seating is comfortable and inviting.

3. Kitchen

The kitchen symbolises your family’s health and prosperity. A clean kitchen ensures abundant food and good fortune.

Clear out expired food from the pantry and fridge. Discard or donate unused utensils, worn-out pots, and chipped crockery. Organise spices and food containers. Deep clean the stove, oven, microwave, and refrigerator (inside and out). Wipe down all cabinet doors, countertops, and the sink. Mop the floor thoroughly. Ensure all taps are free of leaks (leaking water symbolises leaking wealth). Keep kitchen counters clear and bright.

4. Dining Room

This area represents family unity and the blessings of shared meals.

Clear the dining table of any non-dining related items. Remove unused chairs that might be cluttering the space. Wipe down the dining table and chairs. Clean any light fixtures above the table. Sweep and mop the floor. Place a fresh fruit bowl (especially oranges or mandarins) on the table. A clean, inviting dining space promotes harmonious family gatherings.

5. Bedrooms

Bedrooms are crucial for personal well-being, relationships, and health.

Tidy wardrobes, drawers, and bedside tables. Remove clothes you no longer wear or items that don’t belong. Clear under the bed – avoid storing clutter here, as it can disrupt sleep. Change bed linen. Dust all surfaces. Vacuum or mop the floor. Clean windows and mirrors. Ensure good air circulation. Keep the space calm and conducive to rest. For the Fire Horse year, a touch of vibrant colour in throws or artwork can be invigorating but avoid overstimulation.

6. Bathrooms

A clean bathroom is essential for hygiene and prevents the drain of good energy.

Organise toiletries, medicines, and cleaning supplies. Discard expired products. Scrub tiles, toilet, sink, and shower/bathtub. Clean mirrors. Wipe down all surfaces. Ensure good ventilation. Keep the toilet lid down when not in use. Use fresh towels and pleasant scents.

7. Balcony/ Service Yard

Even small outdoor spaces can be significant for bringing in fresh qi.

Remove old laundry, unused gardening tools, or broken items. Sweep and hose down the floor. Clean railings and any outdoor furniture. Add fresh, healthy plants. Ensure good light and air circulation.

8. Invite Luck into Your Home

Once your home is sparkling clean and decluttered, the next step is to perform the Chinese New Year An Zuo (安座) ritual, “settling the seat” for the new year.

By embracing this comprehensive decluttering and cleaning guide, you’re not just preparing your home for a festive celebration, but also intentionally opening pathways for health, happiness, and prosperity to flow into your life in 2026. Happy cleaning, and may the Year of the Fire Horse bring you immense good fortune!

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