Cleanliness is very important to Brazilians, so they like to keep their homes tidy. However, they spend most of their time cleaning and sorting things just before the end of the year. But organizing the home is not only about cleaning the house, but also about setting the mind, as it is a symbolic way of preparing for a new beginning.

Cleaning as a symbol of purification

When people say cleaning and preparing for the next season, many associate these activities with spring. In Brazil, however, it is associated with the summer season and the end of the year. They talk about “limpar para renovar”, which means that cleaning is necessary to make something new come into being. Brazilians begin to organize their household by getting rid of old, unnecessary and broken things, as well as clothes, thus cleansing themselves of stagnant energy. According to their mindset, only an orderly home can open the door to prosperity, new opportunities and health.

Sorting and donating

Brazilians think through every step carefully and do nothing unnecessarily. They do not throw away the things they sort and then dispose of, but donate them to charities and other organisations. Whether it is clothes, household items, toys or other things. However, big cities face big social disparities, which is why you will see this habit especially here. After all, house cleaning has a double meaning. Not only are Brazilians moving towards a life reboot, but they are also showing solidarity and a desire to help those in need.

Before the end of the year, Brazilians sort the clothes they donate to charity. ━━ Before the end of the year, Brazilians sort the clothes they donate to charity. ( Source: Halfpoint /  iStockphoto )

Mental cleaning and new habits

While cleansing the home, they also set personal resolutions. As they sift through notes, papers and documents, they think about what they have struggled with during the year. They make a commitment to themselves to keep things tidy, accumulate fewer things that lie unused anyway, and live with ease.

Regional differences

Cleaning and household organisation styles vary by location. While in Brazil’s big cities, people are inspired by trends such as minimalism and the use of organizers and boxes, in rural areas and smaller communities in general, it is a family affair. Household members divide the different roles in cleaning and spend time together.

Cleaning as part of New Year’s Eve energy

Brazilians do not see cleaning as an obligation or a pleasant part of housework. The cleanliness of the home has a symbolic meaning for them. If it is tidy and cosy, they can attract positive energy and balance into their lives. It is a quiet and pleasant ritual.