Broom in Ghost Lore
In the folklore of Eastern Europe and northern Italy, placing a broom beneath one’s pillow will keep away witches and evil spirits at night. In England, a broom laid across a threshold will do the trick. Stepping over a broomstick will prevent disturbances by ghosts. Evil spirits and ghosts also can be exorcised from a dwelling in rites that involve sweeping the floors or ceilings.
SOURCE:
The Encyclopedia of Ghosts and Spirits– Written byRosemary Ellen Guiley– September 1, 2007