Behind the Scenes of ‘Tradwife’ Lifestyles: What Cleaning Their Homes Taught Me About This Fantasy

When it comes to work, mothers often find themselves in a tricky spot. Those who take care of the home are sometimes seen as “spoiled.” Meanwhile, working mums face pressures like long hours and workplace discrimination. A recent study found that nearly half of mothers experience bias at work, which adds to the stress of juggling family life.

Mothers, whether at home or in a job, tend to handle most of the emotional and mental tasks related to family life. Research shows that they are much more likely than fathers to carry this burden.

The term “tradwife” refers to women who embrace traditional roles at home, often promoting this lifestyle online. This movement can come off as ultraconservative, which sparks debate about gender roles today. Tradwives frequently share their experiences on social media and, surprisingly, can earn money through brand deals while playing this role.

For example, influencer Hannah Neeleman of Ballerina Farm showcases a lifestyle that seems idyllic, but it often masks the reality of being a stay-at-home parent. Her “cottagecore” aesthetic is far removed from the chaos that many mothers actually live through.

Experts, like sociologist Dr. Lisa Miller, point out that this performative aspect of being a tradwife can create unrealistic expectations. Many women feel pressured to present a perfect image, leading to burnout and stress.

Charlie Gray, a traditional housewife and influencer, admitted that managing three young children was hectic, and she relied on help like au pairs. This raises important questions about the accessibility of such lifestyles—who can really afford to maintain the “tradwife” image without help?

While stay-at-home parents work hard, the version of motherhood represented online can be misleading. The well-off can cultivate a picture-perfect home, but not all women have those resources. During tough times, many mothers struggle with the day-to-day grind without the benefit of a social media following.

This conversation reveals a critical point: every family’s experience is different, shaped by their circumstances. Behind every polished photo lies a more complex reality. It’s vital to understand the real work involved in all parenting roles.

The “tradwife” trend highlights how far we’ve come in discussing gender roles, but it also shows we have a long way to go. The expectations placed on mothers, whether by society or themselves, can be heavy. It’s essential to support all mothers, acknowledging the diverse realities they face.

For more on this topic, you can check studies from reliable sources such as the Pew Research Center and insights from organizations dedicated to women’s rights.

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