Let the Sunshine In: Nature’s Secret Weapon for a Cleaner, Fresher Home
Harnessing the natural magic of sunshine to freshen your home, revive old traditions, and make everyday cleaning feel just a little more beautiful.
There’s something magical about a sunny day here in West Virginia—the way the light glows against the mountains, the feel of warmth after weeks of rain, and the subtle promise that maybe, just maybe, spring has finally arrived.
And as someone who's been patiently waiting through a stretch of rainy days, I can’t wait for the first real opportunity to roll up my sleeves and take advantage of the sun’s quiet power.
Because here’s the thing: sunshine doesn’t just lift your spirits. It can actually clean your home.
Yes, really. Sunlight is a natural disinfectant, thanks to its UV rays, which help kill off bacteria, mold, mildew, and even dust mites. That’s right—Mother Nature has been holding out on us with a built-in cleaning service, and it's high time we started using it.
Here are some of my favorite ways to put the sun to work:
☀️ Sunbathe Your Mattress
Haul that mattress outside on a warm, dry day. Letting it bask in the sunlight for 3–6 hours helps zap bacteria and dry out any lingering moisture (thanks, humidity and body oils). Bonus points if you give it a vacuuming first. Just don’t pick a humid day—you want sunshine, not steam.
This practice brings back memories for me. Every spring, my grandmother would have my grandfather carry their mattress outside to soak up the sunshine. It was a bit of a tradition in our family, and though I didn’t fully understand it as a child, it makes so much sense now. My own parents would do the same after I’d recovered from a bout of illness—out went the mattress into the sun, like a gentle reset for my space and health. There’s something so grounding about carrying on that same ritual today.
☀️ Cushions & Pillows Need Sunshine Too
Whether it’s your couch cushions, bed pillows, or outdoor seating, they all benefit from a little fresh air and UV therapy. Remove the covers if you can and wash them according to the care label. Then hang them with sturdy clips or lay them flat, flipping halfway through. Goodbye musty smells, hello fresh fluffiness.
☀️ Duvet Refresh
Your cozy winter duvet has served you well—now give it a little spa day. Wash it according to the label (many are machine washable), then let it soak up the sun for a few hours. The air and UV rays help it feel brand new. Toss in a few wool dryer balls if you use a dryer for an extra plump finish.
☀️ Rugs, Bags, and Lunchboxes—Oh My!
Your area rugs? Take them outside, give them a good shake, vacuum both sides, and let them sunbathe. Garbage cans? Rinse them, set them in the sun to dry, and enjoy the added deodorizing effect.
And those lunch bags—whether canvas totes or insulated snack bags—they carry more than just sandwiches. After washing, let them dry in the sun to prevent mildew and kill off any stubborn bacteria. School germs begone!
☀️ Dining Chairs That Need a Breath of Fresh Air
If your fabric or suede dining chairs have gotten a little, well, fragrant, a sunny timeout might be just what they need. Set them outside for a few hours and rotate them so each part gets equal sun. (Just skip this for leather—it’s not a fan of UV rays.)
Don’t Forget Your Windows!
Opening your windows regularly is one of the simplest, most effective things you can do to freshen up your space. Odors, pollutants, even those fancy fragrances we think are helping—they can all build up and lead to irritation. Cracking the window for even a short time helps clear the air (literally), improves ventilation, and keeps moisture from building up—especially in kitchens and bathrooms, where humidity can lead to mold and mildew.
Personally, I like to make this part of my daily rhythm. As I tidy each room, I start by opening a window to let the fresh air do its thing. Once I’m done tidying—making beds, dusting, wiping down surfaces—I close it up and move to the next room. It’s a small ritual that makes a big difference.
In reality, it has long been known that sunlight is a powerful disinfectant and bactericide. As early as 1877, researchers discovered that sugar water left in the shade became cloudy—indicative of bacterial growth—but when exposed to sunlight, it remained clear. In 1890, the German microbiologist Robert Koch (who had isolated and described the tuberculosis bacterium in 1882) showed that sunlight killed TB bacteria. Later research revealed that sunlight also killed E. coli in seawater and waste stabilization ponds.
I’ve always found that when I slow down enough to work alongside nature—even for chores—I feel a little more connected, a little more grounded. Whether it's soaking up some vitamin D while flipping cushions or simply enjoying the breeze while airing out the guest pillows, this kind of simple ritual is my kind of magic.
So go ahead, let the sunshine in. Your home (and your health) will thank you.
Have a favorite sunny cleaning trick of your own? I’d love to hear it!