Cleaning Tips for Older Toronto Homes
Toronto has an unusually large stock of older housing — Victorian and Edwardian homes from the 1880s–1920s, wartime bungalows from the 1940s, and post-war housing from the 1950s–60s. These homes have specific materials and surfaces that require different cleaning approaches than modern construction.
Victorian and Edwardian Homes (Pre-1930)
Lead Paint
Homes built before 1960 may have layers of lead paint under current paint. As long as the paint is in good condition and not chipping or peeling, it's not an immediate health risk. Do NOT sand or scrape painted surfaces in older homes without testing first — sanding disturbs lead paint and creates hazardous dust. Use damp cleaning methods to avoid generating dust. If paint is chipping, consult a lead abatement professional before DIY cleaning.
Original Wood Floors
Old-growth hardwood floors are more durable and dense than modern hardwood, but their finishes may be more fragile:
- Use as little water as possible — wring mops completely dry, use a barely damp flat mop
- Avoid steam mops — moisture penetrates old floors and causes warping and staining
- Use hardwood-specific cleaners (Method Hardwood, Bona) rather than all-purpose cleaners
- Avoid vinegar — acidic cleaners can damage the finish over time
Plaster Walls
Older homes have plaster walls rather than drywall. Plaster is harder and more durable but:
- Avoid getting walls wet — excessive moisture causes plaster to soften and crack
- Use barely damp cloths only; dry immediately
- Magic Eraser works well on plaster for scuffs and marks, but use gently — it's mildly abrasive
Post-War Homes (1940s–1960s)
Ceramic Tile from This Era
Post-war kitchens and bathrooms often have small ceramic tiles with thick, unsanded grout. The grout is more porous than modern grout and stains more easily:
- Regular baking soda and brush cleaning maintains grout effectively
- Sealing the grout annually dramatically reduces staining in this type of tile work
Cast Iron Tubs
Many post-war homes have cast iron tubs with enamel coating:
- Avoid abrasive cleaners — they scratch enamel permanently
- Use gentle bathroom cleaners or baking soda paste
- For rust stains: Bar Keepers Friend applied gently with a soft cloth
- Reglazing (recoating the enamel) is an option for heavily worn cast iron tubs — cheaper than replacement
Asbestos
Some post-war insulation, floor tiles, and ceiling tiles contain asbestos. As with lead paint: if materials are in good condition and undisturbed, they are not immediately hazardous. Do NOT sand, cut, or disturb materials you suspect may contain asbestos. For renovation and removal work in homes of this era, have materials tested by an environmental consultant first.
Maidless serves homes of all eras across Toronto. Book at maidless.ca.