A TikTok video uploaded by Cuban user Rosabel Almeida has caught the internet's attention, showcasing a familiar scene that resonates with many women from Cuba and beyond: intense cleaning, barefoot, hair untamed, accompanied by lively music and a fearless attitude towards water.
The video, which has amassed thousands of views, features Rosabel pouring buckets of water on her home's floor while dancing and singing, embodying what she calls the "Cuban style." The video humorously breaks down the essentials of this technique with text overlays: "Barefoot, messy hair, lots of water, a mop, and great music." In the video description, Almeida adds a phrase that has garnered applause from many users: "The louder the music, the cleaner the house."
Although the scene is set in a modern home outside of Cuba—as suggested by the appliances and decor—the cleaning method has struck a chord with Cuban women in the diaspora. Comments have flooded in with sentiments like "that's exactly how I clean," "no matter the country, that habit doesn't go away," and "it's the only way the floor gets truly clean."
This video transcends a mere domestic routine, highlighting a cultural practice deeply rooted in Cuban daily life, where home cleaning has traditionally involved physical effort, generous amounts of water, and musical rhythm as a remedy for monotony.
In numerous households, this method of scrubbing the floor—with ample water and a nonchalant approach to getting everything wet—symbolizes "deep" cleanliness and pride in a well-maintained home.
The clip has also sparked discussions about gender roles and the customs that Cuban women maintain even in exile. Beyond nostalgia, many emphasize that it is a way to stay connected with their heritage, even if they now reside in places like Miami, Madrid, or Milan.
Cuban Cleaning Rituals: Insights and Discussions
Why has this cleaning method resonated with the Cuban diaspora?
The method resonates because it reflects a cultural practice that many Cuban women grew up with, offering them a sense of connection to their roots regardless of where they currently live.
What elements are essential to the "Cuban style" of cleaning?
The essentials include being barefoot, having untamed hair, using lots of water, employing a mop, and playing loud, lively music.
How does the video challenge traditional gender roles?
The video sparks a conversation on gender roles by highlighting a domestic task traditionally associated with women, prompting discussions on cultural expectations and practices.