The History Of Cleaning: From Traditional Methods To Modern Technology

The History Of Cleaning: From Traditional Methods To Modern Technology

By : Angelina

Cleaning is an essential part of our daily routine. Whether it is the house, car, furniture, garden or our bodies, we must maintain hygiene for health and wellness. The importance of keeping the surroundings sanitised cannot be questioned. The benefits of cleanliness were also known to ancient civilisations like Egyptians, Greeks and Mesopotamians, who were particular about personal hygiene and laundering. The Romans were no different and played an influential part in constructing public baths.

Since diseases and afflictions were prevalent in ancient times, cleanliness became a norm in modern times. With the advent of washing machines, soaps, and detergents, disinfection became easy. Today, people hire professional end of lease Canberra services to clean their homes, showcasing the advancement of the process. Let us look at this shift in cleaning from traditional methods to modern technology in the current times. It will give you an insight into the evolution of cleaning and how it has impacted human lives.

1. The Ancient Methods of Cleaning

The earliest known cleaning methods used natural items for sanitising clothes and surfaces. The Babylonians crafted their soaps by combining animal fat and charcoal ash and storing them in clay pots. It was used to remove grime and dirt from surfaces. Similarly, Greeks used sand, ash and clay, while Egyptians developed their natural soaps with the help of alkaline salts and vegetable oil. Romans also had soaps crafted from ash, water and animal fat.

2. Cleaning in the Dark Ages and the Modern Era

The Dark Ages lasted from 500 to 1500 A.D. and were a period of struggle for human civilisation. It was a period filled with dreadful communicable diseases caused by unhygienic personal habits and unclean surroundings. However, the advent of the modern era (1500 to 1700) made people realise the importance of health and disinfection. Industrialisation helped in the production of soaps and other cleaning products that helped clean clothes, homes and surroundings.

3. Arrival of New Cleaning Methods

cropped picture of a person cleaning the carpeted area

The 20th century was a turning point in the history of cleaning, with innovative cleaning equipment coming into the picture. Commercial cleaning companies came into existence and products like bleach, detergents and soaps were introduced. The focus was on achieving sanitation and optimising health by keeping germs at bay. Brooms, wet mops and scrubbing brushes became household cleaning items that helped to maintain hygiene. Some of the potent traditional techniques are used even today by end of lease cleaning Canberra companies for best results.

4. Use of Modern Cleaning Tools

While powered vacuum cleaners with suction features were introduced in 1901, pressure washers were discovered in 1926. These machines became a permanent part of commercial cleaning along with chemical-based cleaning solutions that can cut through tough stains and grease. In the 1980s, dishwashers were introduced, and washing machines were part of every home. Most homeowners started using store-bought commercial cleaners for wiping surfaces in the kitchen and disinfecting the bathrooms.

5. Inclination Towards Green Cleaning

During the 1990s, people became aware of the harmful impact of chemical-based cleaning products on the environment and human health. Many cases of sore throat, skin irritation and allergies were reported due to poor indoor air quality in commercial buildings and households. The toxic chemicals were wreaking havoc on the ecosystem by polluting the water bodies.

Thus, many homeowners switched back to traditional cleaning methods that use natural products. Best end of lease cleaning Canberra service providers also use organic cleaning methods to achieve the best results. The most commonly used natural cleaners include baking soda, vinegar, lemons, salt and hot water. These ensure minimal carbon footprint and improved air quality.

6. Contemporary Cleaning and Use of Technology

With many people opting for DIY cleaning, the use of machines for completing household chores became prevalent in the 2000s. From vacuum cleaners to steam cleaning, self-wringing mops, multi-purpose dusters, microfiber cloths, magic erasers, and squeegees, homeowners started using the best devices and supplies for keeping their spaces spick-and-span.

With innovative products flooding the markets, using advanced cleaning equipment has become a norm in homes. These energy-efficient and waste-reduction tools are making their way into every household. Some of the popular devices include robotic vacuum cleaners, smart cleaning appliances, ultraviolet disinfection technology, and biochemical cleaning. Most reputed end of lease cleaning Canberra companies use these tools to offer the best service and get the rental bond back.

7. The Transformation of Cleaning

Cleaning methods have transformed from the traditional methods used in ancient times. However, many conventional techniques are still the best way to clean the premises sustainably. Technology has helped speed up the process and made the lives of urban professionals comfortable. These easy-to-handle cleaning tools, like stick vacuums and robot vacuum cleaners, help clean the house without hassle and trouble.

Cleaning From Traditional Methods To Modern Technology

everything you need to know about the history of cleaning

Wrapping Up

Cleaning has been evolving with time, and the penetration of technology in the industry has helped to speed up processes. Also, the emphasis on eco-friendly cleaning is making homeowners use old and new techniques in tandem to achieve optimum hygiene and cleanliness.