Sweep Away the Old: Chinese New Year Tradition Explained

Why Sweeping Dust is More Than Just Cleaning

As Layue—the twelfth month of the Chinese lunar calendar—kicks off, households across the Chinese mainland are grabbing brooms for a ritual that’s equal parts tradition and symbolism. The 'sweeping of the dust' (or saochen) isn’t just about tidying up; it’s a cultural reset button . Held during Little New Year, this practice symbolizes bidding farewell to the past year’s bad luck and welcoming fresh opportunities.

Dust = ‘The Old’? Let’s Break It Down

In Mandarin, the word for 'dust' (chen) sounds nearly identical to 'the old'—making this deep-clean a metaphor for renewal. Families scrub every corner, believing it clears space for wealth, health, and happiness. Think of it as decluttering your life, but with 2,000+ years of history .

From Ancient Ritual to Modern Trend

While the tradition dates back centuries, its vibe is totally #Relatable today—like a spiritual version of that Marie Kondo phase we all had. Whether you’re into Feng Shui or just love a fresh start, this custom bridges generations. Plus, who doesn’t want an excuse to blast music and clean with purpose?

As Lunar New Year approaches, remember: sometimes, a broom isn’t just a broom.

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Sweep the dust to welcome the New Year

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