Moving into a new home comes with jubilations galore. While you might be privy to the champagne pop, there are some softer secret moments that happen before the celebrations. And many of them are superstitious.
From deciding the best time to move to bringing in auspicious items that will begin this new chapter with only good energy, there are plenty of new home superstitions around.
So without further ado, let's take a look at these meaningful traditions that mark this beautiful moment.
1. Thursday Is the Luckiest Moving Day
It's widely believed that Thursday is the best day to move house. This is common practice purely because it allows you nearly four days, including the weekend. However, it's also widely known to be a lucky moving day.
However, real estate expert Jake Kennedy tells me that Monday is hands-down the best day to move into a new house. "For starters, most moving companies are less busy, so you’re more likely to get your preferred time slot and sometimes even a better rate," he says.
"By taking time to settle in, you can unpack at your own pace, get utilities set up, and have contractors or service providers come by without the typical weekend delays. It’s much easier to get a locksmith, internet installer, or appliance delivery on a weekday."
And he explains there’s a mental benefit, too! "A Monday move feels like a fresh start for the week and for your life. It sets the tone for getting organized and enjoying your new home right away."
2. Bread and Salt to Begin
Real estate expert Hugo Mamo tells me that there is another common new home superstition that involves bringing in auspicious items. And similar to the housewarming rituals from Italy, this superstition is all about bread and salt.
"You can bring bread and salt as your first items to make sure the home never lacks food or flavor. Many cultures believe this guarantees prosperity," he says.
Interior designer Evelina Juzėnaitė explains that there are other symbols of abundance you can introduce, too. "Fresh fruit, especially oranges or apples, and rice, or even a small potted plant, will bring life and growth to your new space," she adds.
Color: Purple & Cream
If you're looking for a housewarming gift to fit this superstition, ditch the plastic or paper wrapping and plate the bread in this sprightly basket instead.
3. Never Bring an Old Broom
According to Evelina, you should never bring an old broom into a new residence. "A used broom carries 'old energy' and problems," she explains.
"Instead, I recommend following this new home superstition and starting fresh. To begin with a clean slate, buy yourself a new broom and mop for your fresh home."
So when you're writing up your moving checklist, perhaps consider leaving your mop off and following this superstition for clean energy only.
Color: Rust
Never thought I'd say this, but I'm in love with this broom and dustpan. Who knew cleaning tools could look so chic?
4. Plant Herbs by the Door
This new home superstition is perfect if you have a green thumb or a passion for cooking. "You can plant basil or rosemary by the door," says Evelina. "Basil is a symbol of protection and good luck in the home. Plus, rosemary drives away evil forces."
These Sweet Basil Seeds from Crocus are perfect if you enjoy a Genovese pesto. Or, you can treat your home to these aromatic Rosemary Seeds instead.
And if you do choose to indulge in a herb garden by your front door, then why not include your birth month herb for a personal touch, too?
Color: Orange
If you're container gardening your herbs, then this Terracotta Herb / Strawberry Pot from Crocus is worth including.
5. Cleanse with Sage or Incense
If there's one new home superstition you're familiar with, it's likely the concept of home cleansing. Staying on the herbal theme, Hugo tells me that you can cleanse the space by burning sage or incense.
"This practice is commonly carried out to remove any lingering negative energy from previous occupants," he adds. And if you take comfort in tidying up the energy of your home, this VIE Sage Smudge Stick from Amazon should be on your radar.
And if you prefer a perfumed ambiance of a different fragrance, take a look at our guide to the best incense.
Quantity: 70 Sticks
There's something serendipitous about an incense tin titled 'welcome drink' for a new home. And this one comes with a stand, too.
6. Put Your Right Foot Forward
"It's said that you should always step into your new home with your right foot first," says Hugo. "This superstition is considered to be very lucky in many traditions." And it gives putting your best foot forward a whole new meaning.
Particularly popular in India, the right side is known to be more pure and auspicious. So stepping into the entryway of a new home with your right foot is said to bring blessings, luck, and prosperity.
7. Tidy Before Unpacking
"When it comes to new home superstitions, it's common to clean up before unpacking," says Evelina. "Even in an immaculately clean home, it's common to sweep and mop the floors yourself to get rid of any ‘residual energy’ from the previous owners."
This is one of the best tips for moving house. Not to mention it'll help your home feel completely tidy before you go through the trouble of unpacking all your belongings in a space that's less than immaculate.
Color: Blue / Fuschia + Beige / Yellow
I'm all for a fun cloth, and this set from HAY is the perfect example of if dopamine decor met cleaning accessories.
And on that note, not every single one of your belongings needs to be transported from your old abode to your new one.
So, if you're in the process of shifting residence, it'll only help to understand what not to pack when moving. Trust me, and save yourself the stress!
