Confessions of a recovering rage cleaner
Do you channel your anger into cleaning? I’ve become annoyed with being annoyed, writes managing editor Katri Jaalamaa.
I came across the idea that cleaning can also be an act of tenderness. It’s about repeatedly touching, washing, and gently stroking the surfaces we clean, caring for the places and objects we hold dear. The repetitive motions and the familiar routine also make cleaning a soothing ritual. I was immediately intrigued by that thought—probably because I do just about the opposite.
When I clean, I grumble and mutter under my breath, huffing at every stain and stray item I come across. I stomp around, wrestling the vacuum cleaner as though I’m battling all the world’s unfairness and giant monsters, rather than just a few grains of sand, dust, and dog hair.
I believe that objects deserve affection and tenderness, too. But there’s no sign of that principle in how I actually clean.
I definitely believe objects deserve to be treated with love and tenderness, especially those we already own. That means we wash, care for, and repair our home’s surfaces and items so they last longer. But looking at how I clean, you wouldn’t really guess that’s my guiding principle. Besides, the vacuum cleaner is an object too.
On the other hand, cleaning and feelings—phew! Isn’t it enough to just get the job done? Do we really have to think about how it feels? Can’t we at least be grouchy while cleaning? Sure, if that’s what you want. But I’m starting to get annoyed with being annoyed, so I’m going to see if I can infuse the process with at least a hint of care and tenderness. After all, the vacuum has already left plenty of marks of everyday life on the baseboards.
