Step back in time with me for a light-hearted peek into the world of early-1900s housekeeping! This article isn’t meant to be taken as a modern guide or a list of expectations — it’s simply a fun and nostalgic exploration of how homemakers once organized their days, cared for their homes, and found pride in daily routines. Think of it as a cozy stroll through history, filled with vintage charm, curiosity, and a touch of admiration for the women who managed so much with so little. Grab a cup of tea, enjoy the whimsy, and feel free to smile at how different life is today. Enjoy these lists compiled from The Making of a Housewife - 1906.
🕰️ Daily Household Order — Morning & Evening Duties
Morning Duties (To Begin the Day Well)
[ ] Rise early and open windows to refresh the rooms
[ ] Say a prayer or quiet reflection before work begins
[ ] Light stove or check appliances for safety
[ ] Prepare a simple, nourishing breakfast
[ ] Sweep kitchen and porch
[ ] Wash breakfast dishes and tidy the table
[ ] Shake rugs and air bedding
[ ] Make beds neatly and straighten sleeping rooms
[ ] Look over pantry and icebox; plan the day’s meals
[ ] Note any errands or provisions needed
[ ] Review household accounts or daily expenses
Evening Duties (To Close the Day in Peace)
[ ] Supper dishes washed, dried, and put away
[ ] Kitchen stove wiped and surfaces cleared
[ ] Floors swept where needed
[ ] Next day’s breakfast and lunches prepared
[ ] Clothing laid out and mended if torn
[ ] Doors secured and lamps inspected
[ ] A quiet moment of gratitude before rest
🧺 Weekly Household Routine
Monday — Washing Day
[ ] Sort laundry by fabric and color
[ ] Soak linens and treat stains
[ ] Wash garments and household cloths
[ ] Hang to dry and air thoroughly
Tuesday — Ironing & Linen Care
[ ] Press dresses, shirts, aprons, and linens
[ ] Fold and store neatly
[ ] Repair small tears or loose buttons
Wednesday — Sewing & Household Repairs
[ ] Mend garments and stockings
[ ] Patch quilts or household textiles
[ ] Prepare new sewing projects as needed
Thursday — Cleaning Day
[ ] Dust parlors and bedrooms
[ ] Polish furniture and mirrors
[ ] Sweep and mop main rooms
Friday — Marketing & Provisions
[ ] Review pantry stores
[ ] Plan household meals
[ ] Purchase meats, produce, and staples
Saturday — Baking & Preparation
[ ] Bake bread, biscuits, or cakes
[ ] Prepare foods for Sunday meals
[ ] Put the house in good order for the Sabbath
Sunday — Rest & Refreshment
[ ] Worship, reading, quiet reflection
[ ] Gentle walks or companionship
[ ] No unnecessary labor
🥣 Pantry & Larder Stewardship Checklist
[ ] Flour, sugar, and meal stored dry and covered
[ ] Salt, spices, and extracts well-sealed
[ ] Root vegetables inspected and sorted
[ ] Leftovers labeled and used promptly
[ ] Milk and dairy kept chilled
[ ] Bread box swept free of crumbs
[ ] Shelves wiped and orderly
[ ] Weekly inventory recorded
🕯️ Graceful Household Conduct & Hospitality
[ ] Speak kindly and keep a pleasant tone in the home
[ ] Maintain order so guests may feel welcome
[ ] Keep a simple refreshment on hand for visitors
[ ] Provide clean towels and tidy rooms for company
[ ] Write notes of thanks and remembrance
[ ] Cultivate cheerfulness, thrift, and stewardship
💰 Household Economy & Budgeting Notes
[ ] Record daily household expenses
[ ] Compare spending to weekly allowance
[ ] Reserve small sum for emergencies
[ ] Review grocery and household costs
[ ] Plan savings for clothing & household goods