You may not think of cleaning as a popular topic for songs, but it turns out that there’s a wide variety of tunes dedicated to mundane tasks.
From Jack Johnson’s classic “Washing Dishes” to Rihanna and Drake’s hit “Work”, there’s something for everyone.
We’ve rounded up 13 of the best songs about cleaning so you can get inspired to tackle the task. Some are upbeat and fun, while others take a more reflective approach.
No matter what your mood is, these songs will help you get in the cleaning spirit.
So grab your duster and mop, and let’s dive into the best songs about Cleaning.
1. “Washing Dishes” by Jack Johnson
You’ll love Jack Johnson’s “Washing Dishes” – it’s the perfect tune for tackling the chore!
The song is upbeat and catchy, with a gentle acoustic melody and simple lyrics.
Johnson’s vocals are warm and inviting, making the task of washing dishes more enjoyable.
Johnson’s songwriting captures the beauty and simplicity of everyday life.
2. “Yakety Yak” by The Coasters
“Yakety Yak” by The Coasters is a humorous, upbeat track about a teenager’s refusal to do chores like cleaning and taking out the trash.
With a catchy 50s doo-wop melody and clever lyrics, the song humorously captures the struggles between parents and children over domestic responsibilities.
This lighthearted song tells the story of a kid who refuses to do his chores no matter how much his parents nag and plead.
The Coasters’ humorous take on domestic drama makes “Yakety Yak” an entertaining and relatable song about cleaning.
3. “Cleanin’ Out My Closet” by Eminem
Eminem’s 2002 smash hit, “Cleanin’ Out My Closet”, is a powerful ode to self-acceptance and closure.
The song dives deep into the rapper’s difficult upbringing and his struggles to come to terms with his past and present.
In it, Eminem reflects on the traumas he’s faced, and how his anger at them has caused him to lash out.
The song is a rallying cry for anyone dealing with pain, hurt, and betrayal, and an anthem of personal growth.
It’s an empowering reminder that we can all choose to leave the past behind and move forward with our lives.
4. “Cleaning Windows” by Van Morrison
Van Morrison’s classic “Cleaning Windows” is a charming tale of a man taking a break from a hard day’s work to appreciate the beauty of nature.
With its upbeat tempo and lighthearted lyrics, this song captures the joy of labor as the singer reflects on the beauty around him.
The song celebrates the little moments of life and encourages listeners to take a step back and appreciate the world around them.
The imagery of the windows provides an interesting metaphor, as the windows represent the need for clarity and perspective in life.
With its uplifting message, “Cleaning Windows” is a great reminder to take time to relax and find beauty in the small moments.
5. “Car Wash” by Rose Royce
Take a ride with Rose Royce and get your groove on with their iconic hit, “Car Wash”!
This 1976 classic is a combination of funk and soul, with a hint of disco.
Featuring the background vocals of the Pointer Sisters, the song is a playful ode to cleaning cars and getting down with some funky vibes.
With its catchy chorus and funky guitar riffs, “Car Wash” is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and some serious groove in your step.
6. “So Fresh, So Clean” by OutKast
Put on your dancing shoes and get ready to groove to OutKast’s “So Fresh, So Clean”.
It’s a song for cleaning up, but it’s also about being the best version of yourself.
The lyrics touch on the joys of personal transformation, encouraging listeners to be confident and embrace their own unique style.
The upbeat, positive message of the song has made it an anthem for self-love and self-care.
7. “When I’m Cleaning Windows” by George Formby
You can’t help but smile when you hear George Formby’s classic hit, “When I’m Cleaning Windows”!
This cheerful, lighthearted song is about embracing the positive in life, even when tackling a mundane chore such as window-washing.
The bouncy banjo riffs and jovial tempo make it a guaranteed mood booster.
Analyzing the song further, the lyrics point to the idea that mundane chores can be a source of joy and contentment if we remember to look for the silver lining.
Formby’s cheerful delivery and jaunty rhythm make this song a timeless classic.
8. “No Scrubs” by TLC
Don’t be fooled by its catchy beat, TLC’s “No Scrubs” is really all about female empowerment!
This classic 90’s hit serves as the perfect anthem for ladies looking to stand up for themselves against men who don’t put in the effort.
The song speaks to the unfairness of men who expect women to put in the work, while they themselves do nothing.
The group’s signature harmonies and clever lyrics remind us that it’s okay to set boundaries and to expect respect from those around us.
9. “Dirty Laundry” by Kelly Rowland
Kelly Rowland’s “Dirty Laundry” is an emotionally raw and powerful track that dives deep into the singer’s struggles with insecurity, betrayal, and heartbreak.
It’s a candid tale of strength and resilience, as Rowland confronts her adversaries and finds a way to move forward.
Written from the perspective of someone grappling with difficult emotions, the song is a cathartic reflection of the healing power of self-expression.
It’s an anthem for anyone who has felt beaten down but is determined to grow and find strength within.
10. “Work” by Rihanna and Drake
Immerse yourself in the upbeat track “Work” by Rihanna and Drake.
This feel-good song is about the hustle and grind of everyday life – the hard work and dedication it takes to make a living and achieve one’s dreams.
With its infectious rhythm and catchy lyrics, the song is an ideal soundtrack to motivate and inspire yourself as you tackle the chores of cleaning your home.
Rihanna and Drake’s duet will get your heart pumping and your feet moving as you clean, bringing a sense of joy and purpose to every task.
11. “Keep It Clean” by Willie Watson
Keep your spirits high and your home clean with Willie Watson’s song “Keep It Clean”.
This upbeat and inspiring bluegrass tune encourages listeners to take pride in their work and keep their environment tidy.
Watson’s captivating vocal performance is complemented by a fast-paced banjo and fiddle arrangement.
The lyrics are simple yet meaningful, offering listeners a reminder to appreciate the process of housekeeping and stay positive.
“Keep It Clean” is an uplifting and catchy tune that will have you dancing and cleaning in no time.
12. “Dirty Laundry” by Don Henley
Take a listen to Don Henley’s classic “Dirty Laundry” and get ready to jam!
Henley’s powerful vocals and catchy chorus make this song an instant classic.
It brings to life the struggles of media manipulation and the consequences of airing one’s personal drama.
It’s a song that’s both insightful and thought-provoking, analyzing the power of public opinion and how it can shape our lives.
It’s a timeless classic that speaks to everyone, no matter the era.
13. “Come Clean” by Hilary Duff
Let Hilary Duff’s hit song “Come Clean” take you on a journey of self-discovery and reflection!
Lyrically, the song challenges us to be honest with ourselves and encourages us to be comfortable in our own skin.
It’s an empowering reminder that we all have the ability to start anew and to come out of our struggles with a greater understanding of ourselves.
Songs About Cleaning – Final Thoughts
It’s clear that cleaning can be a source of inspiration for artists.
From Jack Johnson’s “Washing Dishes” to Don Henley’s “Dirty Laundry”, there’s a song out there for everyone.
Cleaning can even be a source of empowerment, as you can see in Rihanna and Drake’s “Work” and Hilary Duff’s “Come Clean”.
Whether you’re washing dishes, and windows, or sorting through your closet, you can find a tune to keep you motivated and singing along.
So the next time you have to clean, don’t forget to blast some of these best songs about cleaning!
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