A valet was essential to any gentleman who could afford one. Not only did he help dress a gentleman, but he attended to his clothing. In other words, he cleaned the fabrics (wools, superfines, Bath coating, silks, and leather) that made up a gentleman’s wardrobe. Additionally, a valet cleaned and polished boots, and shoes. Many valets were known for the superior shine on boots.
He supervised the laundry’s cleaning of shirts and cravats, and replenishment of those articles. He supervised the maids when they cleaned a gentleman’s chambers. And he was responsible for keeping the jewelry and fobs clean and in good repair. He would also trim the gentleman’s hair, shave him (if required), and manicure his nails.
When traveling, the valet would ride ahead to inspect inn rooms and ensure they were made up properly. If a gentleman was visiting friends, he’d arrive before the gentleman and make sure all his kit was unpacked and the room set up the way he liked it.
A valet would also perform personal tasks, such as errands of a personal nature, for a gentleman.
Valets worked directly for the gentleman he served and did not take orders from a butler (for example). The were on call at all hours unless specifically given the time off.
A valet had a room near or attached to the gentleman’s dressing room. If there was only a small room in that area, he’d have a larger separate bedchamber near his master’s chambers.
Valets would sometimes gain superior reputations, and it wasn’t unusual for other gentlemen to attempt to hire such a valet away.
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