Mexico - Cleaning Practices Around the World

Cleaning practices in Mexico vary depending on the region, socio-economic status, and cultural traditions. However, some general cleaning practices are commonly observed in Mexican households.

1. Sweeping and Mopping

Sweeping and mopping are the most common methods used for cleaning floors in Mexico. Many households still use brooms made of natural materials like corn husks or palm leaves. In some cases, a wet cloth is used to sweep the floor instead of a broom. Mopping is done using a bucket filled with water and a cleaning solution like bleach or a commercial floor cleaner.

2. Dusting

Dusting is done using a damp cloth or feather duster. Mexican households often have decorative items like pottery, artwork, and sculptures, which require regular dusting. In some cases, a vacuum cleaner is used to remove dust from carpets and upholstery.

3. Kitchen Cleaning

The kitchen is a crucial area in Mexican households, and cleaning it is given utmost importance. Countertops, stovetops, and sink areas are regularly cleaned using a cleaning solution and a sponge. The floors are mopped daily, and the kitchen appliances are wiped down to keep them clean and shiny.

4. Bathroom Cleaning

Bathroom cleaning is also taken seriously in Mexican households. The toilet, sink, and shower areas are cleaned using a cleaning solution and a brush. In some cases, baking soda and vinegar are used to remove stains and disinfect surfaces. The floors are mopped using a cleaning solution and a mop.

5. Laundry

Many Mexican households still do laundry by hand, especially in rural areas. Clothes are soaked in water and a cleaning solution like detergent or soap, then scrubbed and rinsed. The clothes are then hung out to dry in the sun.

6. Special Cleaning Practices

In some regions of Mexico, special cleaning practices are observed. For example, in the Yucatan peninsula, a cleaning ritual called "limpia" is performed before a major event or after a significant event like a death or illness. The ritual involves cleaning the entire house using a broom made of herbs like rosemary or basil, which are believed to have cleansing properties.

In conclusion, cleaning practices in Mexico are diverse and often influenced by regional traditions and cultural practices. However, common cleaning practices like sweeping and mopping, dusting, kitchen and bathroom cleaning, and laundry are observed in most households.