U R, on the right track. This could B years of "Pledge" build up, or only, the oil from the former owners hands. If the former owners had children, U would B wise to clean and sanitize them, in the first place. If U have children, just wipe them down once a day with a "Clorox" clean up wipes, once the residue is removed. Do the same thing with your door knobs as there, R more bacteria on them than the rim of a toilet. I was a health inspector,when I was younger. Now, as 2 your problem. If U took "Chem." in high school or college, U, will remember that, like substances, attract, like substances. They also disolve 1 & other. Cleaning is all "Chem" and we thought, we would never use it! LOL Just slather the hand rails with lemon oil or orange oil, and let it sit. Wipe it off with, dry paper towles, and repeat until the PT comes out clean. U will not B doing any harm 2 the wood. Just use a good wood polish or paste wax and U should B fine. If U have kids, just encourage the washing of hands! They have no idea! Good luck! Enjoy your new home!

Try wiping off with mineral spirits and then sanding. I agree this is too heavy, never are supposed to let drain dry on wood.

I really like that!! You may be right that it is better done in a new build, but it's certainly a question I can run by one of our contractors. Even if we can't do it, you really nailed the look I was hoping for : )) Here is the best I've seen on Houzz, but it's difficult to choose online. https://tinyurl.com/SandedBronzeSquareHandRail

could you post more pictures of the entire lower room? without more info here are my suggestions. totally remove the spindles and replace it with builtin shelving. just a half wall on the dining side that can be used for a serving surface or bar seating. on the living room side it could incorporate an area for your TV (or not) with open and closed storage. or build open shelving in that area that will give you the most natural light without a serving area.