How to clean wooden handrails the right way

Maintaining your wooden handrails not only makes them look good but also helps keep them clean and hygienic to use. After all, handrails are high-touch surfaces, making them a natural breeding ground for all sorts of bacteria and viruses. By regularly cleaning and disinfecting your handrails, you can minimise the spread of these nasties and keep up the aesthetics of your property overall.

But how do you do this without damaging your wooden handrails? Read on to find out how to clean and maintain them regularly and ensure the wooden finish appears slick, spick and span.

Know your wooden handrail finish

Wood comes in all shapes, sizes, colours and finishes – and your handrail won’t be an exception.  Different finishes require different cleaning methods and products to avoid damaging the surface or causing discolouration. 

Here’s how to identify the finish on your handrail:

Lacquered 

Many opt for a lacquered finish due to its glossy look, but it can also come in a matte finish too. It’s a go-to for that desired ‘thin film’ effect, or if you wish to add a tint of warmth to oak. If you want to test for a lacquer finish – apply a small amount of denatured alcohol to an inconspicuous area using a clean cloth. If the finish becomes dull or sticky, it’s likely lacquered.

Varnished 

Varnished or shellac (French polished) wood also has a glossy look to it, but is “thicker” in appearance and more susceptible to scratches. To test for a varnished wooden handrail, apply a small amount of cleaning spirit to a hidden area using a clean cloth. If the finish becomes dull or sticky, it’s likely varnished.

Oiled

Oiled finishes have a natural, matte appearance and feel slightly rougher to the touch. To test for an oiled finish, apply a small amount of denatured alcohol to an inconspicuous area using a clean cloth. If the finish remains unchanged, it’s likely oiled.

Waxed

Finally, waxed finishes have a soft, satin-like appearance and feel smooth. To test for a waxed finish, try scratching the surface gently with your fingernail. If a white line appears, it’s likely waxed.

Supplies needed to clean wooden handrails

To effectively clean and maintain your wooden handrails, you’ll need to gather a few essential supplies. It’s likely you’ll have most of these in your cupboard already! 

• Multiple microfibre cloths – these are an absolute must for picking up dirt and grime, and don’t leave behind lint.
• Wood cleaner – ensure you pick one specifically for your type of wooden handrail and its finish.
• Disinfectant spray (or wipes if preferred) – this is great for giving your handrails a quick disinfection before applying your wood cleaner.
• Soft bristle brush – find the softest one you can to really get in any crevices and scrub off residue and grime.
• Bucket filled with clean water – to clean and rinse your cloths, as well as dilute any cleaning products if necessary.
• Vacuum with attachments – ideally one with a soft brush can suck up loose dirt and dust particulates.
• Rubber gloves – to protect your hands from harsh chemicals!

The best way to clean wood handrails

Establishing a simple wooden handrail cleaning routine will keep its surface clean and looking fresh. Here’s how to maintain your handrails as part of your cleaning routine:

1. Give it a dust

Use your vacuum to hoover up any dirt or just in hard-to-reach areas using an attachment, then finish off with a wipe-down using your microfibre cloth. Pay extra attention to any crevices or intricate details.

2. Disinfect

Using a damp, clean microfibre cloth or antibacterial wipe, wipe down the entirety of your wooden handrail and balustrades. Ensure your cloth is not dripping wet, as too much moisture can seep into the wood and cause long-term damage.

3. Spot clean

If you notice any stubborn marks, scuffs, or stains, tackle them individually with a gentle wood cleaner. Wipe the area down one final time with a damp cloth and buff dry with a clean, dry microfibre cloth to finish.

4. Give it a buff

To really make your wooden handrail shine, you can buff the handrail with a dry microfiber cloth or a clean, dry cloth dipped in a small amount of wood polish or conditioner. Buff in the direction of the wood grain with light pressure.

What cleaning products are safe for wooden handrails?

When it comes to cleaning wooden handrails, the products you use can make a big difference in maintaining the beauty and integrity of the wood. However, the wrong cleaning solutions can strip away the finish, leaving the handrail vulnerable to damage and discolouration. With this in mind, it’s essential you choose the right products based on the type of finish on your wooden handrails.

Lacquer and varnish finishes

• Mild soap and water
• Diluted vinegar
• Gentle wood cleaners specifically designed for lacquer and varnish finishes

Oil or wax finishes

• Mild soap and water
• Oils (such as lemon or mineral oil used sparingly)
• Gentle wood cleaners specifically designed for lacquer and varnish finishes

Non-recommended products for cleaning wooden handrails

Do not use anything with bleach, ammonia bases or acetone, as these are too harsh for wooden handrails. Scourers or abrasive cleaning tools are also a no-go due to their harsh surface that can completely strip away the wood’s finish. Some furniture polish may also not be suitable for your wooden handrails due to the use of additives that may damage the wood. 

If you’re unsure whether you should use a certain cleaner, always test it on a small area that isn’t as visible to others.

Common mistakes when cleaning wooden handrails

Cleaning any kind of high-quality wood requires a high level of care. Always avoid using harsh chemicals (like the ones we’ve listed previously), as this can completely damage the finish of the wood. Whilst wood with finishing generally has decent moisture resistance, long-term water contact can make it swell, warp, and rot. To clean, work on small areas and wipe off standing water right away. Don’t soak a wooden handrail or leave it wet for a long time.

The coating on wooden handrails protects the wood underneath, but just like using harsh chemicals, too much scrubbing or rough brushes can wear it away. Use a soft cloth or sponge and make gentle circular moves to avoid scratches or a dull look. After you clean the handrail, dry it well with a clean soft cloth. Any water left behind can cause stains and even mold growth.

Lastly, if your wooden handrail is in an area with lots of sunlight, then you’ll need to maintain the colour and finish far more regularly as wooden handrails can fade, dry out, and get brittle. If you can, cut down on UV light by closing curtains or blinds when the sun is strongest. You might also need to recoat sun-damaged spots more often than handrails that aren’t in sunlight.

How often should I clean my wooden handrails?

To keep your wooden handrails clean and gleaming in all their glory, we’d recommend cleaning them weekly. For a thorough cleaning, incorporate a deep clean every month to remove any built-up grime and to restore your handrail’s natural lustre.

Can I use vinegar to clean my wooden handrails?

Yes, but with caution. Pure white vinegar can seriously damage the finish of your handrail, so ensure you dilute the vinegar before using it to clean any wooden surfaces.

Should I sand or refinish my wooden handrails myself?

If your wooden handrails are looking quite worn down and dull, then they may require refinishing. Whilst this is possible to DIY, it’s a very delicate process that’s easy to get wrong. To avoid any further damage to your wooden handrail’s finish, consult a professional (such as us!) to help you with your handrail maintenance.

We hope this wooden handrail cleaning guide has given you all of the information to prolong its appearance and keep it safe to use day in and day out. Need advice on your handrail or want to learn more about our bespoke wooden handrails and balustrades? Contact us to book a consultation.