爱干净

You usually place it after a person's name or a pronoun. Use the word 很 (hěn) to say someone is 'very' clean. For example, 他很爱干净 (He is very tidy). You can also use it as an adjective to describe a person. It is a great way to compliment a roommate or a potential partner. Just don't use it to describe a car or a dog unless you're being funny.

Use it when you are getting to know someone. It is a common topic when talking about living together. You might use it at a job interview for a role that requires precision. It is perfect for praising a child who just cleaned their room. You can also use it when explaining why you can't go hiking in your white sneakers. It shows you care about your appearance and surroundings.

Avoid using it if someone is actually obsessive-compulsive in a medical sense. That might require a more serious term. Do not use it to describe a 'clean' record or a 'clean' plate of food. It is strictly for hygiene and tidiness habits. If someone is just being picky about food, this is not the right phrase. Also, don't say it to a stranger who has a stain on their shirt. That would be quite awkward!

In Chinese culture, being 爱干净 is a highly respected trait. It is often linked to having a disciplined and organized life. Traditional parents always want their children to be 爱干净. It is seen as a sign of good upbringing. In modern cities, it is a top requirement for finding a good roommate. People often joke that 'Virgos' are the kings and queens of being 爱干净.

You might hear 洁癖 (jiépì) which means a 'cleanliness obsession.' That one is much stronger and can be negative. Another variation is 讲卫生 (jiǎng wèishēng), which is more about public health and hygiene. 爱干净 is the most casual and common way to say it. It feels warm and personal rather than clinical or cold.