These types of buildings are something special–and not just because of their historical value or the untold stories they witnessed.
Victorian and Edwardian buildings show exquisite craftsmanship and a distinct character that you rarely see today, and as with anything built with skill, they require a special kind of care.
Here’s how to clean and maintain these beautiful buildings so you enjoy them for a long time while preserving their longevity and significance.
Period Properties Require Gentle Cleaning
This is rule number 1, which you should follow closely. You can’t use abrasive pads, strong chemicals, or aggressive scrubbing methods, because if you do, you risk irreversible damage to your period property.
So, how do you protect those original varnishes, the lime plaster, or the encaustic tiles? By using gentle cleaning products and methods, and doing so strategically. Naturally, you have to factor in that you have to protect your home’s structural integrity as well.
Your two biggest foes here are dust and poor ventilation. The former worsens the latter, apart from attracting certain pests.
Good indoor air quality is also important to prevent mould growth, as that can ruin any Victorian or Edwardian building quickly.
The answer to these challenges is, of course, a good cleaning routine!
Regular Dusting and Maintenance
Periodic buildings tend to collect dust quickly, so if you want to look after them well, you’ve got to dust regularly–there’s just no way around it. Using a microfiber cloth or a soft brush is best for that purpose because both tools wipe away dust without causing any scratches.
Microfiber cloths don’t even need sprays, so there’s less chance of messing any surfaces up by accident.
Regular cleaning isn’t just about restoring neat looks. It also saves you loads of time in the future by preventing dirt from piling up, so you don’t have to deal with bigger messes.
A quick dust-off every few days should be enough for the week. For that purpose, setting up a dusting routine by using an app on your phone or a reminder can be useful as well.
Here are the best cleaning tools for gentle cleaning:
- Small vacuum with attachments. Use a handheld vacuum with different attachments to reach those tight corners and cracks without messing up any fragile stuff. It helps keep everything dust-free and the home’s delicate features safe.
- Soft-bristled brushes. These are perfect for gently dusting the ornate wood and plaster. They won’t scratch anything and keep the surfaces looking great. You can clean tricky spots without damaging anything.
- Lint rollers. Great for picking up dust off fabrics and other soft materials. They work well on curtains and upholstery, cleaning them thoroughly without causing any harm.
Using the above tools makes it easier to keep the classic charm of Victorian and Edwardian homes intact. The right tools not only help you clean better but also protect the timeless beauty of these amazing places.
Alternatively, for those low on time, hiring domestic cleaners specialising in period properties can be a lifesaver. The pros know how to handle historic homes carefully and will do so with the appropriate products and expertise.
This can be really useful for busier times of the year or when you want to give your entire home a seasonal reset.
Clean Large Windows and Glass
The grand windows in Victorian and Edwardian homes are pretty special, letting in loads of natural light that showcases their classy interiors. Naturally, keeping them clean is required for that to occur to the fullest extent.
For that purpose, you can easily make your own cleaning mix by combining one part vinegar with three parts water in a spray bottle. This homemade cleaner removes dirt without streaks and keeps the glass clear, especially when paired with a microfibre cloth or a squeegee.
And when the windows are sparkling clean, they’ll really bring out the timeless charm of Victorian and Edwardian homes.
Be Gentle with Wooden Surfaces
Painted or varnished joinery, bannisters, or even panelled doors are common features of any Victorian and Edwardian home. That’s why they need to be handled with love and care in order to stay looking good.
You need to dust them regularly, then wipe them with a barely damp microfibre cloth. You want to avoid soaking at all costs.
For polished wood, you should use a high-quality beeswax blend. Apply it in thin layers and buff the surface to revive the sheen without buildup. Linseed oil is also a nice alternative here as well.
See also: The Importance of Duct Cleaning for New Homeowners
Have a Seasonal Deep Cleaning Routine
While doing a little bit every day is a better strategy when it comes to keeping your periodic home clean you still need occasional deep cleaning.
You want to periodically do some seasonal tasks, like give the curtains a wash now and then to get rid of all that dust and dirt, and they’ll make your rooms feel fresher.
Give your carpets a deep clean too, so the air stays nice and healthy. The rule of thumb is to rely on professional carpet cleaners at least twice a year, so you eliminate allergens and reduce the overall dust you have to deal with on a weekly basis.
Don’t forget to check those damp corners like basements and attics for any mould spots—keeping that away will protect your health and your house’s structural integrity.
Lastly, you want to ventilate regularly to combat dampness. You might also have to run extractor fans and avoid overheating to protect wood from excess drying.
Naturally, Spring and Autumn are the two most important periods to focus on seasonal efforts.
You’ll have to deep clean your entire home properly and prepare it for the coming seasons, so it’s best to work from a checklist or rely on professional cleaning services in the UK should you need any help.
Conclusion
Having a Victorian or Edwardian home is not only a joy–it’s a privilege and part of preserving British tradition!
By taking good care of your periodic property, you not only make day-to-day living nice and comfy, but you also help protect these architectural treasures for posterity.
We wish you good luck and many joyous years enjoying your clean and well-maintained home!
