I couldn’t answer this bc I only learned about it recently (from a central FL native), so I asked Perplexity:
Many cultures observe superstitions regarding laundry on New Year’s Eve and Day. The belief is that doing laundry can “wash away” good fortune or even a loved one, suggesting that someone may die in the coming year. Consequently, it’s advised to refrain from cleaning or laundry on these days, with many people waiting until January 2 to resume such activities[1][2][3]. This superstition has roots in traditions like the Chinese Lunar New Year, where cleaning is also avoided to retain good luck[1][4].
I love when superstitions are obviously something some parents told their kids because the parent didn’t want a lot of noise after a holiday.
“No, no chores today it’s bad luck, if you make too much noise someone could die” they say holding their head in their hands.
“You have to be quiet and go to bed early on Christmas Eve so that Santa can bring presents” 30 minutes later the parents are quickly shoving presents under the tree.
And kids will just run with that and not question why cleaning in the days after new years is bad luck, although they tend to figure out the Santa one pretty quick.
I couldn’t answer this bc I only learned about it recently (from a central FL native), so I asked Perplexity:
I love when superstitions are obviously something some parents told their kids because the parent didn’t want a lot of noise after a holiday.
“No, no chores today it’s bad luck, if you make too much noise someone could die” they say holding their head in their hands.
“You have to be quiet and go to bed early on Christmas Eve so that Santa can bring presents” 30 minutes later the parents are quickly shoving presents under the tree.
And kids will just run with that and not question why cleaning in the days after new years is bad luck, although they tend to figure out the Santa one pretty quick.