No laundry on New Year's Day and other strange superstitions

And what better way to start the year by following these quirky superstitions which are believed to avoid any bad luck for the following 12 months.

1. Don't do laundry

People are told to not do any laundry on New Year's Day, as it could cause a loved one to be 'washed away' - to die - that year. We've seen tens of thousands of avoidable deaths due to Covid-19 in 2020, so this is one to defnitely stick to.

2. Don't do any sweeping

Similar to laundry, people are urged not to do any sweeping, wiping or cleaning on New Year's Day, as it could caused a loved to be 'swept away'. These superstitions are pretty sinister so far...

3. Wear new clothes on New Year's Eve

Dressing in your best new clothes to bring in the year is believed to mean you will continue to look and feel your best throughout the year.

4. Don't eat any chicken

It seems poultry needs to be off the menu on January 1. It's believed if chicken is eaten, diners will spend the year 'picking through the dirt for their dinner' - ie. bringing poverty upon themselves.

5. Hang lemons above your doors

While many of us can't stand the din of fireworks as the clock strikes 12, many of us enjoy them and the noise and light from fireworks, cheering and music is though to ward off evil spirits. Hanging a slice of lemon in your doorway is also believed to do the same and keep good vibes flowing.

6. Open your doors

It might be chilly outside but people are encouraged to open windows and doors to let the old year out and the new one in. With keeping rooms well ventilated an important way to fight the spread of Covid-19, this superstition ticks two boxes at once.

7. Avoid crying cats

Finally, this strange superstition urges people to avoid meowing cats on New Year's Day - bad news if you're a cat owner with a feline that craves attention. It's thought crying cats are a bad omen, so avoiding them is your best bet to a year filled with good luck.