The written word and tradition in China

Day 24 of the 12th lunar month - 7 days until the Spring Festival 

The Chinese character 凈 ("jing"), meaning clean or pure, is the keyword for the 24th day of the 12th lunar month. This year, it falls on Jan. 15. Families traditionally clean their homes on this day in preparation for the new year.

The activity is called "sweeping house" in north China and "dusting" in the south. In the past, families would sweep the courtyard, clean the appliances, wash bedclothes, and dredge the farm ditches. The tradition of thoroughly cleaning one's house carries the meaning of dispelling diseases and praying for good health in the coming year, and is also done in preparation for the Lunar New Year celebrations.

Read more about Spring Festival countdown customs：

Day 23 of the 12th lunar month (the Little New Year) - 8 days until the Spring Festival 

Day 25 of the 12th lunar month - 6 days until the Spring Festival