In the Victorian era, before the age of mass produced chemical cleaning products and gadgets, people had to use their creativity to ensure their homes were clean. Although many of these methods and tricks have been lost, some are still used and known to work just as well, or even better than some modern methods.
Plumbworld has teamed up with historian Matt Hawthorn to uncover the most surprising Victorian cleaning hacks, and one forgotten trick stands out as a game-changer for glass and mirrors. One of the most ingenious Victorian cleaning methods was using black tea to clean mirrors and windows. Before commercial glass sprays existed, households discovered that the tannins in black tea could break down grease and grime, leaving a streak-free shine.
If you want to try this tick for yourself it’s easy enough to do.
Brew a strong cup of black tea and let it cool completely.
Dip a soft, lint-free cloth into the tea, wring out any excess liquid, and wipe down your mirrors or windows.
Buff with a dry cloth to reveal a streak-free, crystal-clear finish.
This Victorian hack is not only effective but also free of harsher chemicals you may find in other cleaners, making it a perfect alternative for those looking to reduce the use of certain cleaning products in their home.
Matt Hawthorn said: “Victorians were incredibly resourceful, and black tea was one of their go-to cleaning solutions. The tannins naturally cut through dirt and leave glass surfaces sparkling – without harsh chemicals. It’s a simple, cost-effective method that still works today.”
A Plumbworld spokesperson said: “It’s fascinating to see how effective historical cleaning methods can be.
“The Victorians found smart, sustainable ways to keep their homes spotless, and some of their tricks – like black tea for glass – work just as well today.”
