I Tried a Morning Routine Inspired by the Victorians

In the early 19th century, most people didn’t have access to modern alarm clocks. Instead, they relied on natural light to wake them up. (By the end of the Victorian era, mechanical alarm clocks became more popular.) I could have channeled my inner “early Victorian” energy by just opening my blinds and hoping for the best. However, it was winter. And with a sunrise alarm clock, you can mimic a natural sunrise.

Fortunately, I work from home on my own schedule, so I could risk sleeping through a sunrise clock at first. I started my day by gradually waking up to a sunrise alarm clock (all sounds off), which filled my room with light. I did my best not to look at my phone until I was completely out of bed—this was hard! Overall, this step was a refreshing change from the harsh beeping of my usual alarm, and it helped me wake up feeling more alert and energized. As a bonus, the added light made me forget that it was a dark winter day (something the Victorians couldn’t avoid).

In Queen Victoria’s time, showers were still a new concept, and showerheads were typically simple, elegant rainheads positioned directly in the center of the stall. Believe me, this simple swap can dramatically improve anyone’s morning.

My shower was a refreshing experience with my newly installed antique-style rain shower head. My favorite part, aside from the relaxation, was that it mimics the classic look of a Victorian bathroom. And the gentle rainwater-esque flow was incredibly invigorating. The natural sponge I used to clean my skin was a gentle reminder of the methods prevalent in Victorian times, often due to a lack of alternatives.

Before commercial toothpaste, people used natural ingredients like baking soda and salt to clean their teeth. Also, wealthier people like Queen Victoria used charcoal powder to keep their teeth pearly white. To step back in time, mix baking soda with a bit of water and brush with a natural bristle brush for a natural, effective clean.

I opted for a “natural” toothpaste since baking soda alone didn’t leave my mouth feeling clean (maybe I was doing it wrong?). Brushing my teeth with natural ingredients like baking soda and charcoal was a new experience, but it left my teeth almost as clean as any commercial toothpaste. I like simplifying the ingredients I use for hygiene. Still, I did notice this paste left my sensitive gums a bit irritated—so I alternate with this product and my regular toothpaste.

Sure, we have a lot of chemicals in a standard morning routine, but the Victorians loaded their face with chemicals like lead and arsenic. Fortunately, not every Victorian-era product was banned as we learned more. For example, rosewater was a typical beauty ingredient in Queen Victoria’s time, and it’s still popular today for its refreshing and hydrating properties. Apply it to your face with a cotton washcloth for a natural pick-me-up.

For me, I loved the gentle scent and how it left my skin feeling soft and smooth. I suffer from sensitive skin and rosacea, so I was surprised by how effectively this seemingly harsh (witch hazel) product soothed any redness. I would definitely buy this brand (founded in the Victorian era, by the way) again.

I finished my morning routine by making tea and having breakfast. This was an important step for Victorian women, who placed great importance on the social ritual of tea time. I enjoyed the simplicity of tea alongside tea cakes (don’t judge) and blueberry jam.

And while I didn’t necessarily socialize like a Victorian, my dog certainly enjoyed my company. On mornings when I have more time and feel like cleaning an extra steeper, I’ll brew some loose-leaf tea from my stash. But I really like this no-fuss decaf green tea option from Lipton.

Overall, my Victorian-inspired morning routine was a refreshing change from my usual routine. Each step had a purpose, from using natural ingredients to the vintage showerhead. It was a reminder that in a time when technology was limited, people found joy and beauty in the simple things.