Mental Health and Why It Matters: Cleaning as Self-Care
At Superb Maids Portland, we believe that a clean home is more than just a chore—it’s a key component of mental well-being, just like exercise or healthy eating. A clutter-free, fresh environment can have profound effects on your mood, stress levels, and overall sense of peace. For our founder, the connection between cleaning and mental health is deeply personal.
The CEO's Story: Turning Struggles into Support
Our CEO founded Superb Maids Portland while navigating the complex challenges of raising three beautiful boys, two of whom are on the autism spectrum. Balancing work, managing therapies, and keeping up with household tasks was overwhelming. There were days when the house felt like one more burden in an already hectic life.
Through this struggle, she realized that cleaning couldn't just be transactional—it had to be about helping people feel better in their homes. She founded Superb Maids to not only help people regain control of their space but also to improve mental health through a clean, organized environment.
The Science Behind Cleaning and Mental Health
Research shows that a clean environment can significantly reduce stress levels. In fact, clutter and mess can increase levels of cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, which can lead to anxiety and emotional overwhelm. On the other hand, studies show that maintaining a tidy living space helps:
Reduce anxiety and feelings of overwhelm
Increase productivity and focus
Promote better sleep in a more organized, calm environment
Improve overall mood, leading to higher levels of joy
A clean home offers a sense of control and calm that is especially important for individuals dealing with:
Anxiety: A cluttered space can make anxious feelings worse. Cleaning can be a soothing, empowering activity that helps reduce those feelings.
Cancer: For those undergoing treatment, a clean home environment is essential for health and healing. We provide safe, non-toxic cleaning solutions for individuals with compromised immune systems.
Dementia and Alzheimer's: For caregivers managing the care of loved ones with dementia, maintaining a clean environment can offer stability and comfort in a difficult time.
We Are More Than a Cleaning Company
At Superb Maids Portland, we’re not just cleaning homes—we’re creating spaces that promote well-being. Here’s how we’re different:
Comprehensive Training: All of our cleaners go through rigorous training, ensuring that they understand not only how to clean, but how to support your mental health through their work.
Eco-Friendly Products: We use non-toxic, eco-friendly products that are safe for your family, pets, and the environment. Harsh chemicals can exacerbate anxiety or health conditions; our products promote a healthier, safer home
Emotional Support: We understand that cleaning isn’t just physical. For those with high levels of stress, illness, or caregiving duties, our cleaners are more than a cleaning crew—they are partners in helping you regain a sense of control and peace.
Mental Health and Cleaning: The Statistics
The mental health benefits of maintaining a clean environment are well-documented. Here are some key statistics:
High cortisol levels are linked to cluttered environments, increasing feelings of stress and overwhelm. A study published by the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found that women who described their homes as cluttered had higher cortisol levels than those who described their homes as restful
88% of people say that cleaning helps them relax. According to a survey conducted by the American Cleaning Institute, cleaning helps many people deal with anxiety, giving them a sense of accomplishment and control
A study by Princeton University showed that physical clutter negatively affects your ability to focus and process information. By cleaning up your environment, you also clear your mind, enabling better decision-making and reducing stress