How to Clean a San Francisco Victorian Home: What You Need to Know

Hardwood Floors: The Right Products Are Everything

Original Victorian hardwood floors are typically Douglas fir, heart redwood, or oak — often over 100 years old, and often with only a thin layer of finish remaining. Wet mopping is the enemy of these floors. We use barely damp microfiber mops with pH-neutral, hardwood-specific cleaners. We never use steam mops or any product that introduces significant moisture to these floors. The same applies to the narrow-plank fir floors common in Victorian-era kitchens and service areas.

Ornate Plaster and Crown Molding

Victorian-era plaster molding — ceiling medallions, cornice molding, decorative friezes — collects dust in every crevice and needs regular, careful dusting. We use soft bristle brushes and microfiber cloths rather than stiff brushes or abrasive tools that can chip or damage fragile plaster. Original plaster is lime-based and different from modern drywall — it requires a light touch.

Original Bathroom Tile and Clawfoot Tubs

Victorian-era bathrooms often feature original hex tile floors, subway tile walls, and cast iron clawfoot or pedestal tubs. The grout in original tile can be 100+ years old — we use non-acidic cleaners that won't eat away at it. Clawfoot tubs with original porcelain enamel require non-abrasive cleaners; we never use scouring powder on these. The chrome claw feet get polished with chrome-appropriate cleaner.

Bay Windows and Original Glass

Victorian bay windows are often the most dramatic feature of these homes — three-sided projections with original single-pane glass, original hardware, and painted wood surrounds. We clean the glass with streak-free products appropriate for older, sometimes wavy glass. The painted window surrounds get a careful damp wipe rather than saturation. Original brass or bronze hardware gets polished separately.

Wood Wainscoting and Interior Trim

Victorian interiors often feature painted wood wainscoting, picture rails, built-in cabinetry, and elaborate door surrounds. We clean painted woodwork with a lightly damp cloth — excessive moisture can cause paint to bubble or peel on older surfaces. Original unpainted woodwork (often found in libraries or studies) gets appropriate wood cleaner.