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From the Snake to the Horse
25th of February 2026 Article by Lynn Webster
Lynn Webster in the UK looks ahead to the significance of the Lunar New Year for the sector.
As the calendar turns and a New Lunar Year begins, the cleaning industry finds itself in some familiar territory. We are leaving the Year of the Snake for the Year of the Horse. Taking stock of the qualities of last year where the snake was traditionally associated with reflection, precision and transformation. Using this symbolism there is a compelling metaphor for professional cleaning, shedding what is no longer required, or necessary, providing space for new ideas and new strategies.
With thoughts of the past year, cleaning companies have increasingly had to reassess priorities, revisit processes and upgrade protocols to meet new legislation and the challenges of targets imposed by clients, society and the latest market trends.
There has been a constant drive to remove outdated practices with a sharper focus on performance, accountability and highest on the agenda, wellbeing. Stripping back the built-up grime whether it be on the floor or in our minds, removing the hidden residues, and tackling neglected corners is not just about the appearance but about creating healthier environments and closing the chapter on the past year with the best intentions.
So, if the Snake represents reflection, the Horse will represent action. Traditionally associated with energy, movement and progress, the Horse provides clean spaces that allow people and businesses
to move forward both literally and figuratively. Businesses will set goals for their year ahead, take bold strides for the longer-term, consider growth, efficiency and sustainability.
The transition into the New Year is a time when cleaning can be welcomed rather than postponed. It is an opportunity for the industry to highlight its strategic role, not just its operational one. Modern cleaning is about being proactive, data-driven, and increasingly aligned with ESG goals, public health outcomes and the employee experience. From smart equipment and environmentally responsible products to workforce training and compliance - today’s cleaning professionals are the facilitators of progress.
Create space
Engaging with the spirit of the Horse, the industry will hopefully move faster, adopt innovation, scale up best practices and respond to the challenges and changing expectations from clients and regulators alike with best intentions to start afresh, clear the way and create space for what’s next. For the cleaning and facilities sector, this is a chance to tell a stronger story, one that connects daily work with long-term impact. Clean spaces are safer spaces. Well-maintained environments are more inclusive, more productive and more resilient.
So, as we step into the Year of the Horse, at a trot, a canter or a gallop - associated with freedom and success - the message should be simple but powerful. By shedding the remnants of the past year like the Snake, and embracing the energy and momentum of the Horse, the cleaning industry can set the pace for everything that follows. A fresh start is not just about what we remove, it is about what we enable. And in the year ahead, clean spaces will continue to carry us forward. This year is forecast to be a lively and forward moving period filled with optimism and growth, vitality hard work and endurance.
And if you were personally born in the Year of the Horse … you are generally energetic, thrive in fast paced environments, independent, charismatic - popular individuals who love freedom but are apparently also impulsive, easily frustrated and outspoken.
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