by Laura Leigh Fields

Created on: July 18, 2007

When it comes to house cleaning, I can be a bit obsessive. I like things my way and nothing else will do. I like my house to be a place I can be proud of. If my house is trashed out then it sets the mood for a bad day. I am much more pleasant if I can see the floors when I look down.

If things pile up, it gets harder. If housework is neglected, then a person starts to feel dread about cleaning. This may cause feelings of worthlessness among other things. You may even build up resentment to housework. It should never get to the point that you hate your home because it is dirty.

No one is going to take care of your stuff if you don't. Having a clean house helps a person feel pride in what they have. You can do things the way you want them. If you personalize it to suit you, then it is a more comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. You can have your own piece of paradise. For people dealing with depression, it is especially important to have a place where you don't feel so overwhelmed and disgusted. It makes it easier to unwind.

An ugly atmosphere makes life seem more dreadful. People who don't have clean houses may avoid coming home. They also avoid having guests over. They may feel embarrassed about the situation. People can be judgmental. We say that we don't care what others think, but deep down it bothers us if people disapprove of us. If we live in our own filth, unexpected company can be a bad thing.

A nasty house can be a breeding ground for germs among other things. Crumbs and trash can attract a number of houseguests, such as rats, maggots, and roaches. There is nothing healthy about sharing your house with insects and rodents. Some can even carry diseases. There are enough risks in the world without adding more to our list. Let someone else feed the roaches, they aren't your responsibility.

Cleaning helps take your mind off things. It is a positive way to focus your energy. Once you get started, time seems to whiz by. Pretty soon, you may even be looking for things to do. A clean atmosphere makes for a happier home. Things are often more organized in a neat house. This means less stress when you are looking for something. You may even feel a certain sense of self-accomplishment after you have completed a big cleaning task.

It is important to make a cleaning schedule and stick to it. If you do a little bit every day, things aren't going to pile up on you. Set aside certain days to do certain things, such as laundry or dusting. If you miss a day, it is not the end of the world. Putting forth some effort is the most important thing. A clean home is a happy home.

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