Historic and older homes have a charm that modern houses can’t replicate — original wood floors, antique fixtures, intricate trim, and character in every corner. But keeping that charm intact takes a special approach when it comes to cleaning. At Best Day Housecleaning, we’ve worked in many of these unique homes, and we know that “cleaning carefully” is just as important as “cleaning thoroughly.”
Here’s a closer look at some of the most common cleaning challenges older homes present — and our favorite ways to tackle them safely and effectively.
Fragile or Original Surfaces
Challenge: Vintage woodwork, plaster walls, and original finishes can be easily damaged by modern cleaning products or too much moisture.
Solution:
Use gentle, pH-neutral cleaners and microfiber cloths instead of harsh chemicals or abrasive pads. Avoid over-wetting wood or plaster — a damp, not dripping, cloth is best. For ornate moldings or carvings, a soft paintbrush can remove dust without disturbing the finish.
Pro Tip: Always test a small area first, especially if you’re unsure what kind of coating or paint you’re working with.
Stubborn Grime in Old Kitchens & Bathrooms
Challenge: Layers of age, grease, and older tile or grout can hold onto buildup more than newer materials.
Solution:
Go for gentle deep cleaning rather than harsh scrubbing. Baking soda paste and steam cleaning can loosen grime safely. For vintage tile or grout, use a soft-bristle brush and an oxygen-based cleaner (avoid bleach, which can degrade older materials).
If the stains persist, periodic professional deep cleaning can restore surfaces without damage.
Drafts, Dust & Air Quality
Challenge: Older homes often have gaps, aging insulation, or older vents that allow dust and allergens to settle faster.
Solution:
Regular high-dusting and vacuuming with a HEPA filter make a big difference. Pay attention to vents, window sills, radiators, and baseboards — they collect dust quickly. If you live in a historic home, scheduling consistent maintenance cleans helps prevent that “constant layer of dust” feeling.
Antique Fixtures & Hardware
Challenge: Brass knobs, vintage chandeliers, and older light fixtures require delicate care to avoid scratching or tarnishing.
Solution:
Avoid all-purpose cleaners and instead use material-specific products — a gentle brass polish for brass, or diluted dish soap and water for glass and crystal fixtures. Always dry immediately with a soft cloth to prevent water spots or corrosion.
Floors That Tell a Story
Challenge: Hardwood floors in older homes are often original — and that means thin finishes, creaky boards, and sensitivity to moisture.
Solution:
Skip the mop bucket! Instead, use a flat mop or microfiber mop with a lightly damp pad and a wood-safe cleaner. Keep water to a minimum and dry quickly. Regular maintenance and avoiding grit (use doormats and felt pads under furniture) can add years of life to your floors.
Lead Paint or Asbestos Concerns
Challenge: Many historic homes built before 1978 may have lead-based paint or asbestos materials lurking in walls, floors, or ceilings.
Solution:
If you suspect either, don’t disturb the material. Regular dusting and vacuuming with a HEPA filter can reduce surface particles safely, but deeper cleaning or renovation should only be handled by certified professionals.
At Best Day Housecleaning, we always prioritize safety and follow strict cleaning protocols when working in older environments.
Restoring Shine Without Modern Chemicals
Challenge: Many “modern” cleaners are too harsh for delicate, historic materials.
Solution:
Opt for eco-friendly, fragrance-free cleaners — they’re not only safer for your home and family but also gentle enough for antique materials. Products with simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, or plant-based surfactants can do wonders without stripping finishes.
Maintaining Character While Staying Clean
Every older home deserves care that respects its history. That’s why at Best Day Housecleaning, our teams are trained to spot what needs a gentle touch — and what needs a little extra elbow grease — to bring out the best in your home without compromising its beauty or integrity.
About The Author
Best Day Housecleaning has been serving the Fox Valley area since 2023. We service Geneva, North Aurora, South Elgin, West Chicago, Batavia, Elburn, and St. Charles, IL. Along with offering top-rate maid service trusted by families for exceptional cleaning, we also offer a range of services including recurring cleaning, deep cleaning, and move-in/move-out cleaning, all performed by our highly trained and trustworthy team of Cleaning VIPs. All of our Cleaning VIPs are insured, bonded, and background checked. We use eco-friendly products to ensure your home is transformed into a spotless sanctuary with a personalized approach and attention to detail that exceeds expectations.
Give us a call at 630-463-9041 or send us an email to happy@bestdayhousecleaning.com to get started!
