The spring semester is well upon us. Birds are chirping, flowers are blooming, and the warm breeze tussles our sun-lightened hair…
Well, not quite yet. The word “spring” in “spring semester” is quite deceiving. Between the snow on the ground and the gray sky, it appears we’re still far away from that glorious spring weather. However, fear not! Despite Punxsutawney Phil’s rather depressing prediction, spring will soon be underway. And what better way to prepare for t-shirt and open-toed shoe weather than SPRING CLEANING!?! I know what you’re probably thinking- why talk about spring cleaning when I can barely muster enough strength to open a drawer in this weather, let alone clean them out? Read below for four reasons to get an early start with spring cleaning!
Reduce your stress!
According to Jonathan Fader Ph.D., “clutter can increase stress by distracting us and overwhelming our senses with extraneous stimuli.” If our dorm rooms are littered with food wrappers or our closets are flooded with misplaced clothing, how can we focus on the task of studying for midterms? Even if we’re not paying much attention to this clutter, our minds can still sense its looming presence.
Make room!
Getting an early start on spring cleaning allows you to begin clearing space for garments that you’re going to need for 60+ degree weather. Before heading home for spring break, make sure you pack up your winter gear. This will prevent you from having to ship heavy sweaters and knit hats back home. Plus, what’s worse than looking at a closet full of coats and snow boots when everyone is walking around in shorts and light-weight tops? When you get back from break, unpacking is a breeze when there’s plenty of space for your seasonal attire.
Be Healthier!
From the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), spring cleaning can drastically help banish allergy symptoms. Wiping down your desk and hard-to-reach surfaces will eliminate pesky allergens that lurk all over your dorm room. Everyone knows how quickly a cold or flu spreads in college. Guard yourself against nasty pathogens, and disinfect. Don’t forget to check the fridge! We can agree that weeks-old, forgotten food is a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.
Sweeeeeeet satisfaction.
Now that all of the unnecessary junk is cleared out, and your winter wardrobe isn’t clogging up drawers, you can finally breathe a sigh of relief. Your hard work has paid off tremendously, and you can finish up your spring semester feeling like a clutter-free champ. Happy spring!
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