Clean Before You Go: A Survey Reveals America’s Top Pre-Travel Cleaning Habits
Are you tired of returning to a messy home after a refreshing vacation? Does a scratch on your suitcase ruin your post-travel mood? Well, you are not alone. A recent survey of 2,000 U.S. travelers has unveiled some fascinating insights into the pre-travel cleaning habits of Americans as the summer travel season approaches.
The Importance of Pre-Travel Cleaning
It’s evident that cleaning the house before embarking on a trip is a top priority for many travelers. Over 75% of respondents stated that they prefer to clean their homes before leaving for a vacation. In fact, the average respondent begins preparing for their trip more than two weeks in advance.
Cleaning Essentials Before Travel
Before jetting off to their desired destinations, individuals tend to focus on specific cleaning tasks such as laundry (77%), dishes (66%), bathroom (58%), and sweeping/mopping (56%). This meticulous cleaning spree is fueled by the excitement of upcoming travel, as 66% of respondents claimed that the anticipation of a trip motivates them to clean their homes before they leave.
The Stress of Post-Vacation Cleaning
While pre-travel cleaning can be a therapeutic experience, it can also serve as a stressor for vacation-goers. According to the survey, 51% of participants admitted to dreading the idea of coming back to a dirty house after their vacation. Lydia Joo, brand director at Mr. Clean, highlighted the significance of pre-vacation cleaning, stating that it helps individuals relax and fully enjoy their trip without worrying about returning to a messy environment.
The Importance of Cleaning Travel Essentials
In addition to cleaning their homes, travelers also ensure that their travel essentials are in pristine condition. About 40% of respondents clean their luggage before a trip, with some dedicated travelers cleaning their luggage as frequently as once a week. The survey also revealed that many travelers feel embarrassed during vacations due to worn-out or dirty items such as clothes (20%), shoes (19%), and luggage (18%).
Key Items to Clean Before Traveling
To avoid any embarrassment or inconvenience during their journey, 55% of travelers view cleaning their luggage as a top priority before heading out. Despite the meticulous pre-travel cleaning regime, results showed that even more travelers pay attention to cleaning their luggage and other travel accessories upon returning home.
The Challenge of Cleaning Luggage
Cleaning luggage was identified as a daunting task for 27% of participants, emphasizing the need for effective cleaning solutions. Maria Striemer, Global Home Care P&G Senior Scientific Communications Manager, recommended using a versatile cleaning tool like the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser to tackle scuffs, dirt, grease, and grime on luggage, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
In conclusion, the survey sheds light on the significance of pre-travel cleaning rituals for Americans and highlights the importance of maintaining clean travel essentials. By incorporating these cleaning habits into their routine, travelers can enhance their overall travel experience and return home to a welcoming and clean environment.