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Brief Window of Tidiness in UK Homes After Cleaning, Study Finds
Household chores may offer a fleeting sense of order, as a recent study reveals the average British home remains tidy for a mere two hours following a thorough cleaning session before succumbing to disarray once more. The survey of 2,000 adults, focusing on home tidiness and cleaning routines, indicated that while 34% engage in daily tidying, their residences maintain a pristine state for approximately 118 minutes on average. This research highlights the ongoing battle to maintain order in British homes.
Spring Cleaning Traditions Remain Popular
Over half of those surveyed, accounting for 55% of respondents, reported undertaking an annual spring clean. March and April emerged as the most favored months for this extensive domestic task, with 40% and 35% respectively dedicating time during these periods. During these seasonal spruce-ups, Britons tend to concentrate on less frequent household chores, such as laundering curtains and dusting skirting boards, prioritized by 36% and 33% of participants, respectively.
Commonplace Daily Cleaning Tasks
The study identified several routine cleaning activities frequently performed in UK households. These everyday tasks include washing dishes, undertaken by 63%, making beds, practiced by 62%, and loading the washing machine, a chore completed by 51%. Interestingly, four in ten participants confessed to accepting the mess, discovering a certain charm in the inherent chaos of home life.
Product Tie-In: Scented Cleaning Range Inspired by “Everyday Chaos”
The research was commissioned by Procter & Gamble (P&G), the manufacturers of brands like Bold and Febreze, in conjunction with the launch of their spring collection with Mrs Hinch. This collection, named “Enchanted Wildflowers,” features a variety of floral fragrances intended to enhance the experience of household chores such as dishwashing and laundry.
Mrs Hinch’s Perspective on Home and Cleaning
Social media personality Mrs Hinch shared her thoughts on the new product line, stating, “I’m thrilled to finally unveil this collection, which is all about acknowledging the beauty found within the everyday chaos of home.”
She further elaborated, “My aim is to assist individuals in transforming their living spaces into a mini springtime haven, infusing them with fresh floral scents and making cleaning and organizing feel more manageable.”
“It’s not about pursuing an unattainable ideal of a perfect, picture-postcard dwelling,” Mrs Hinch added, “but rather appreciating those simple, small gestures that bring joy and serenity to your day, ultimately making a significant positive impact.”
The Constant Cycle of Mess and Tidying
Despite the acceptance of some level of disarray, the study also revealed that 77% of individuals feel compelled to maintain some control over household untidiness, even with the awareness that it is likely to return soon.
Data from OnePoll.com indicated that nearly two-thirds, specifically 65%, favor a consistent, incremental approach to cleaning, tackling tasks in smaller portions as time permits.
P&G Spokesperson on Embracing “Lived-In” Homes
A representative for Procter & Gamble commented on the findings, noting, “It is indeed relatable to see how quickly areas become untidy again after cleaning.”
“While many aspire to a consistently orderly home, it’s the minor imperfections that signify a space is truly lived in and enjoyed – whether it’s dishes from a home-cooked meal or toys scattered by children or pets. Embracing the inherent chaos of a home is important, but so is the ability to relax and unwind.”
“Adopting a ‘little and often’ routine aids in managing general untidiness on an ongoing basis, before dedicating time to a more comprehensive undertaking like the annual spring clean.”