Why You Shouldn t Wash Laundry on New Year s Day: Exploring the Superstitions and Traditions Around New Year's Day Laundry

Many cultures around the world have unique traditions and superstitions that shape the ways we celebrate important holidays, and New Year’s Day is no exception. One widely-shared superstition suggests that you shouldn’t wash laundry on New Year’s Day. Rooted in folklore and passed down through generations, this practice has practical, symbolic, and even design-oriented implications worth considering.

The main belief behind this tradition is that washing clothes or linens on January 1st may “wash away” your good luck, or—according to some variations—could even wash away a loved one, symbolizing loss in the coming year. Whether or not you believe in the superstition, many families choose to avoid household chores on the first day of the year to ensure a fresh, positive start.

From a designer’s perspective, traditions like this are fascinating because they influence the rhythms and routines of a home. The flow of spaces—such as where you keep laundry appliances and how laundry areas are integrated into the home's layout—often reflects the family rituals and daily patterns. For instance, if you tend to avoid laundry on New Year’s Day, you can use this time to refresh communal spaces or begin a new home project that fosters a sense of renewal without the hum of washing machines interrupting your peace. This is a perfect moment to reconsider how a home designer can help you rethink your laundry area layout for maximum efficiency and relaxation throughout the year.

Tips 1:

Instead of doing chores, use New Year’s Day as an opportunity to declutter, reorganize, or refresh your living space for the upcoming year, fostering positivity and welcoming new beginnings. As a designer, I recommend starting the year with a small home refresh, like rearranging furniture or swapping out décor, which can have a big impact on your daily mood.

FAQ

Q: Why is washing laundry on New Year’s Day considered bad luck?

A: It’s a cultural superstition rooted in the belief that washing on this day may wash away your good fortune or result in loss during the upcoming year.

Q: Are there any positive traditions for New Year’s Day home routines?

A: Yes, many people choose to clean or refresh their home before New Year’s and reserve January 1st for relaxation, reflection, or starting new projects.

Q: Does doing laundry on New Year’s Day actually affect luck?

A: This is a superstition with no scientific basis. Whether or not you follow it is up to personal or family tradition.

Q: How should I prepare my home before New Year’s if I want to follow this tradition?

A: Complete laundry and cleaning before New Year’s Eve so your home feels organized and ready for a fresh start.

Q: Are there any design tips for making laundry less of a chore throughout the year?

A: Consider reconfiguring your laundry space for better workflow, storage, and aesthetics—working with a designer or using home layout tools can make the process easier and more enjoyable.