How to Become a Cleaner (Spotless Career Ahead)

If you’ve ever contemplated a career in keeping spaces spotless and inviting, or wondered what it takes to become a professional cleaner, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll explore the EXACT steps you need to take to launch your career as a cleaner. We’ll discuss:

The skills you need.
The training that can help you get there.
How to secure a job as a professional cleaner.

So, whether you’re new to the concept of professional cleaning or someone with a knack for cleanliness looking to turn it into a career, stay tuned.

We’re about to unravel the blueprint to become a successful cleaner.

Let’s get started!

Contents show

Steps to Become a Cleaner

Step 1: Understand the Job Role and Responsibilities

The first step to becoming a cleaner is to understand what the job entails and what will be expected of you.

Cleaners are responsible for ensuring that areas such as offices, homes, schools, hospitals, or other public and private spaces are clean, sanitary, and presentable.

Tasks could involve vacuuming and mopping floors, dusting surfaces, cleaning windows, disposing of trash, and sometimes carrying out minor maintenance tasks.

Additionally, cleaners may also be expected to restock supplies, handle delicate items with care, and use various cleaning products safely and effectively.

It’s important to note that the tasks a cleaner performs can vary greatly depending on the place they are assigned to clean.

For example, a cleaner in a hospital might have to follow strict sanitization and contamination guidelines compared to a cleaner in a residential house.

Understanding the job role and responsibilities is crucial as it will help you prepare for the physical nature of the job, be aware of the necessary safety precautions, and build a set of skills required for different cleaning tasks.

It is also important to develop good customer service skills as cleaners often interact directly with clients.

This understanding can be gained by researching the role online, talking to professionals in the field, or spending some time in a similar role.

Having a good understanding of the role and its responsibilities will help you decide if it’s the right fit for you and prepare you for the next steps in your career path.

Step 2: Obtain Necessary Education or Training

While formal education is not typically required to become a cleaner, having a high school diploma or equivalent can be beneficial.

Certain positions, such as those in the healthcare or hospitality industry, may require specific training.

Some companies provide on-the-job training, but it’s also possible to obtain certification through an organization like the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA).

The training usually involves practical cleaning techniques, safety procedures, and equipment handling.

For example, you may need to learn how to safely use and store cleaning chemicals or operate industrial cleaning equipment.

This step is crucial because understanding the fundamentals of cleaning and sanitation can better prepare you for the job and make you more appealing to potential employers.

In some cases, having this knowledge and training can also increase your chances for advancement in the field.

In addition, if you’re considering self-employment, you might want to take business courses or seek advice on how to run a small business.

This could include learning about marketing, customer service, and financial management.

Step 3: Learn About Different Cleaning Products and Supplies

If you want to be a successful cleaner, you must familiarize yourself with various cleaning products and supplies.

This involves understanding the function of each product and the surfaces or materials they’re suitable for.

Some chemicals are harsh and could damage certain surfaces, while others are mild and versatile.

You should also be aware of eco-friendly cleaning products, as more clients are becoming environmentally conscious and prefer such options.

Learn about homemade cleaning solutions like vinegar, baking soda, or lemon juice that can be used as alternatives to harsh chemicals.

In addition to cleaning products, it’s crucial to understand different cleaning equipment.

This can range from simple tools like brooms and dustpans, to more complex machinery like steam cleaners and vacuum cleaners.

Learning to operate and maintain these tools effectively can make your job easier and more efficient.

Continuously updating your knowledge about the latest products, tools and cleaning techniques available in the market will help you stay ahead in your cleaning career.

You can achieve this by attending workshops, watching online tutorials or reading about the latest trends in cleaning.

This will make you more versatile and open up more job opportunities.

Step 4: Obtain Health and Safety Training

Being a cleaner may not require a formal education, but obtaining health and safety training is vital.

Cleaners often use different chemicals and equipment in their work, which can be hazardous if not used correctly.

Therefore, understanding health and safety measures can prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment.

You can find numerous online and offline courses that provide such training.

These courses will educate you on the safe handling of cleaning chemicals, personal protective equipment (PPE) use, and the importance of maintaining a safe and healthy work environment.

Moreover, specific industries may require cleaners to have specific safety training.

For instance, if you are interested in working in a hospital, you will likely need to have training in hazardous waste disposal, infection control, and possibly even biohazard clean-up.

Having these certifications will not only equip you with the necessary skills but also make you more appealing to potential employers.

Therefore, it is essential to identify the specific training you need based on your desired cleaning environment.

Remember, health and safety training is an ongoing process.

Laws, regulations, and industry standards frequently change, so it’s critical to stay updated and renew your certification as required.

This commitment will show your dedication to your role and highlight your professionalism, increasing your chances of job advancement.

Step 5: Acquire Practical Cleaning Experience

As you are starting your career as a cleaner, gaining practical cleaning experience is essential.

This can be achieved through on-the-job training or by working part-time or volunteering in cleaning roles.

For example, you could start by cleaning homes, commercial buildings, hospitals, schools, or industries.

This practical experience will help you understand the types of cleaning products and equipment used in the industry, how to use them safely and effectively, and how to provide high-quality cleaning services.

You will also learn about the different cleaning protocols required for different environments.

Moreover, practical experience can provide you with opportunities to improve your skills in time management, customer service, and problem-solving.

The more varied your experience, the better, as it can make you more adaptable and versatile in the cleaning industry.

Remember, every cleaning job is different, and having a wide range of practical experiences will prepare you for any cleaning task that comes your way.

You can use these experiences to build up your resume and increase your chances of securing better cleaning roles in the future.

Step 6: Specialize in a Specific Cleaning Sector

As you gain experience and skills in the cleaning industry, consider specializing in a specific sector.

This could be commercial cleaning, residential cleaning, industrial cleaning or a more niche area such as crime scene cleaning or hazardous material removal.

Specializing in a particular sector can help you to become more skilled and knowledgeable, making you more sought after in your chosen field.

For example, commercial cleaners may need to understand how to clean large office buildings, whereas residential cleaners may need to have a more detail-oriented approach for individual homes.

If you choose to specialize in areas like crime scene cleaning or hazardous material removal, you may need to undertake additional training and certification to comply with health and safety regulations.

This can enhance your career prospects and potentially lead to higher pay.

Remember, no matter what sector you choose to specialize in, maintaining a high standard of work and demonstrating a professional attitude will be key to your success in the cleaning industry.

Step 7: Develop Good Organizational and Time Management Skills

Being a cleaner involves more than just cleaning; it’s about managing your time effectively and being organized in your approach to tasks.

Cleaners often have multiple locations to clean in a single day, so it’s crucial to plan your schedule in a way that allows you to complete all the tasks on time without sacrificing the quality of your work.

Work on improving your organizational skills by creating a list of tasks you need to complete at each location, and prioritize them based on their urgency and the amount of time they will take to complete.

This might include identifying which areas need a deep clean and which ones require a lighter touch.

Time management is equally important in this role.

Being able to estimate how long a task will take can help you plan your day more effectively and ensure you don’t fall behind schedule.

It’s also important to factor in travel time between locations and any potential disruptions that could slow you down, like traffic or unexpected additional cleaning tasks.

Developing good organizational and time management skills not only makes you more efficient but also showcases your professionalism and dedication to your role as a cleaner.

This can lead to more job opportunities and advancement in your cleaning career.

Step 8: Secure a Work Permit if Necessary

If you are not a citizen of the country where you intend to work as a cleaner, it is essential for you to secure a work permit or visa.

This legal requirement allows you to work legally in the country.

The process of acquiring a work permit varies from country to country, so you need to be familiar with the specific rules and regulations of the country where you want to work.

First, find out if the country you are going to work in requires a work permit.

If so, you will likely need to provide some documentation, such as a job offer letter, proof of your identity and proof of your qualifications.

In some cases, you might be required to get health checks or provide character references.

Check with the immigration department or embassy of the country you wish to work in for the most accurate and current information.

You should start this process well in advance of when you wish to begin working because it can often take several weeks or even months.

Remember, working without the proper authorization can lead to severe consequences like deportation or fines, so make sure to secure your work permit before starting your job as a cleaner.

Step 9: Apply for Cleaner Positions

After you’ve gained the necessary skills and experience, it’s time to start applying for cleaner positions.

You may want to look at job listings in your local area, online job boards, or even reach out directly to businesses who may need your services.

When applying, make sure you highlight your cleaning experience, any specialized training you may have, and your attention to detail.

Don’t be afraid to start with entry-level positions, as these can provide valuable experience and opportunities to move up within the company or industry.

For instance, you could start as a janitorial assistant and work your way up to a supervisory role.

Remember, the key to a successful job application is a well-written resume and cover letter that showcases your abilities and experiences.

Having good references who can vouch for your reliability and work ethic can also be beneficial.

Another route to consider is self-employment, where you can offer your cleaning services directly to clients.

This requires a bit more legwork in terms of advertising and networking, but can provide more flexibility and control over your work.

Step 10: Consider Certifications for Career Advancement

Although many cleaning jobs do not require formal education beyond high school, certain certifications can help advance your career as a cleaner.

For instance, the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association offers various certifications like Green Cleaning Company Certification, Bloodborne Pathogens Certification, and a Mold Inspection & Remediation Certification.

These certifications can help you gain expertise in specialized cleaning areas.

Another organization, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), offers a range of certifications for cleaning/restoration technicians and inspectors.

These certifications demonstrate to employers and clients that you are knowledgeable and trained in the latest cleaning techniques and standards.

Moreover, obtaining a business management or small business certificate can be beneficial if you plan to run your own cleaning service.

This can help you learn key skills in marketing, finance, and customer service.

Remember that these certifications often require some investment, both in terms of time and money.

However, they can give you a competitive edge, increase your earning potential, and open up more job opportunities in the cleaning industry.

Cleaner Roles and Responsibilities

Cleaners play a critical role in maintaining cleanliness, sanitation, and the overall appearance of the places they service.

They could work in various settings including offices, schools, hospitals, and residential homes.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

General Cleaning

Cleaning, stocking and supplying designated facility areas (dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, cleaning ceiling vents, restroom cleaning etc).
Performing and documenting routine inspection and maintenance activities.
Carrying out heavy cleansing tasks and special projects.

Sanitation

Use cleaning solutions to remove stains and clean surfaces.
Sanitize bathrooms, kitchen areas, and other public spaces.
Empty trash cans and dispose of waste in designated areas.

Equipment Maintenance

Clean and maintain cleaning equipment.
Check cleaning supplies and equipment needed for cleaning and maintenance duties.

Inspection

Inspect premises for cleanliness and possible issues and report defects, damages, and malfunctions to management immediately.
Ensure that all cleaning equipment and materials are in a safe and operable condition.

Customer Service

Respond to client inquiries and complaints.
Ensure customer satisfaction through excellent cleaning services.

Safety Compliance

Adhere to all relevant health and safety regulations.
Use personal protective equipment provided when necessary.

Organization

Organize work schedule based on tasks and priorities.
Ensure timely completion of all assigned cleaning tasks.

Continuous Learning

Stay updated on cleaning techniques and safety protocols.
Attend training programs and workshops.

What Does a Cleaner Do?

Cleaners typically work for cleaning service companies, offices, schools, hospitals, private households, and hotels.

They can also operate as self-employed individuals offering their services to various clients.

Their primary role is to ensure that the spaces they are responsible for are kept clean, neat, and tidy.

This typically involves routine tasks such as sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming floors, dusting furniture, and emptying trash bins.

Cleaners are also often tasked with cleaning and sanitizing bathrooms, replenishing supplies such as toilet paper and soap, and making sure communal areas like kitchens or break rooms are kept clean.

They may also be responsible for more intensive cleaning tasks such as shampooing carpets, washing windows, and cleaning appliances.

In office settings, cleaners often work outside of regular business hours to avoid disrupting the workday.

In residential settings, they must respect the privacy of the homeowners and take care to handle personal items with respect.

In all settings, cleaners must be aware of and follow cleaning safety guidelines to avoid accidents and ensure the health and safety of themselves and others in the building.

Essential Cleaner Skills

Attention to Detail: Cleaners must be thorough in their work and pay close attention to detail. This ability ensures that no area is missed during cleaning and that the premises are kept in an immaculate condition.
Physical Stamina and Agility: Cleaning work often involves physical tasks, such as mopping, vacuuming, and lifting heavy items. Therefore, good physical health and agility are essential.
Time Management: Cleaners often have a list of tasks to complete within a set timeframe. The ability to manage time effectively is crucial to ensure all tasks are completed promptly.
Knowledge of Cleaning Products and Techniques: Understanding how to use various cleaning products and equipment is key. This includes knowing which products are suitable for different surfaces to avoid damage.
Problem-solving: Sometimes, cleaners encounter stubborn stains or must figure out how to clean delicate items. The ability to solve problems and come up with effective solutions is critical.
Reliability: Cleaners often work unsupervised, so it’s important they are reliable and trustworthy. Employers need to trust that the work will be done effectively, even when no one is watching.
Communication: Good communication skills are necessary for understanding client requirements, reporting issues, or changes in schedule. They also help in maintaining a positive relationship with clients.
Organizational Skills: Keeping cleaning supplies organized and well-stocked is important. This also includes planning and organizing tasks for efficient cleaning.
Adaptability: Every cleaning job is unique, so cleaners need to adapt quickly to different environments and requirements.
Respect for Safety: Understanding and adhering to safety procedures, including handling chemical cleaning products and operating machinery, is critical to prevent accidents and damage.

Cleaner Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Janitorial Assistant

Your journey in the cleaning industry usually begins as a Janitorial Assistant.

At this stage, you are absorbing knowledge about various cleaning techniques and hygiene standards, while also gaining hands-on experience.

Your responsibilities may include basic cleaning tasks, stocking supplies, and assisting senior cleaners.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

Learn Continuously: Stay updated with latest cleaning techniques and hygiene standards.
Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek guidance from senior colleagues.
Attention to Detail: Ensure thorough cleaning by paying attention to all areas, including those often overlooked.

The Ascent: Cleaner

With experience and confidence, you transition into the role of a Cleaner.

Here, you will handle more complex cleaning tasks, operate cleaning machinery, and may even supervise janitorial assistants.

Here’s how to thrive in this stage:

Efficiency: Enhance your speed and efficiency without compromising on quality.
Problem Solving: Be prepared to tackle unexpected cleaning challenges.
Customer Service: Focus on providing excellent service to your clients by understanding their specific cleaning needs.

Reaching New Heights: Cleaning Supervisor

The next step up is the Cleaning Supervisor position.

In this role, you will demonstrate leadership by managing a team of cleaners, organizing schedules, and ensuring that all cleaning standards are met.

To excel as a Cleaning Supervisor:

Leadership: Lead by example and motivate your team to provide excellent cleaning services.
Planning and Organization: Efficiently plan cleaning schedules and ensure all tasks are completed on time.
Communication: Maintain open communication with your team and clients to ensure satisfaction and resolve any issues.

Beyond the Horizon: Cleaning Manager

As your career progresses, you might step into the role of a Cleaning Manager.

This position involves greater responsibilities, including hiring and training staff, budget management, and overseeing multiple cleaning projects.

Here’s what to focus on:

Management Skills: Develop strong leadership and communication skills to manage your team effectively.
Business Acumen: Gain understanding of budgeting and basic business principles.
Customer Relations: Build strong relationships with clients and ensure their needs are consistently met.

Pinnacle of Success: Cleaning Services Owner/Operator

Reaching the pinnacle of this career path could see you owning or operating your own cleaning services company.

This position involves strategic decision-making, managing client relationships, and overseeing the business operation as a whole.

As an owner or operator:

Entrepreneurship: Develop business strategies to grow and maintain your cleaning business.
Quality Assurance: Implement and maintain high cleaning standards to ensure customer satisfaction.
Marketing: Promote your services to reach a larger customer base and expand your business.

Cleaner Salary

Entry-Level Cleaner

Median Salary: $20,000 – $25,000 per year
Entry-level cleaners typically have less than 1 year of experience and may hold a high school diploma. Their responsibilities include basic cleaning tasks, such as dusting, mopping, and vacuuming.

Mid-Level Cleaner

Median Salary: $25,000 – $30,000 per year
Mid-level cleaners have 1-3 years of experience and often take on more specialized tasks, such as carpet cleaning, window cleaning, and deep-cleaning procedures.

Senior Cleaner

Median Salary: $30,000 – $35,000 per year
Senior cleaners possess 3+ years of experience and are responsible for leading cleaning projects, training new cleaners, and ensuring all cleaning tasks meet the required standards.

Lead Cleaner / Cleaning Supervisor

Median Salary: $35,000 – $45,000+ per year
These roles come with significant experience and often involve team leadership, project management, and decision-making related to cleaning procedures and protocols.

Cleaning Manager / Director of Housekeeping

Median Salary: $45,000 – $60,000+ per year
These high-level positions require extensive experience, and often involve setting cleaning strategies, managing cleaning staff, and overseeing multiple cleaning projects for a company or institution.

Cleaner Work Environment

Cleaners primarily work in residential homes, office buildings, hospitals, schools, and industrial environments.

Some cleaners may also find employment in hotels, restaurants, airports and other public spaces that require regular cleaning and maintenance.

Cleaners often have to work outside of regular business hours, such as early mornings, late evenings, and weekends, to avoid disturbing the regular activities of the facility they are cleaning.

They may also be on-call for emergency cleanup situations.

After gaining experience and establishing a reputation for thorough and dependable work, a cleaner may choose to start their own cleaning business, providing services to a range of commercial and residential clients.

This allows for greater control over work hours and client selection.

FAQs About Becoming a Cleaner

What is needed to become a cleaner?

To become a cleaner, you primarily need basic skills such as the ability to handle different types of cleaning equipment and chemicals, knowledge of cleaning and sanitation protocols, good physical fitness, and an eye for detail.

Good time management and organizational skills are also helpful.

Some cleaning roles might require specialized training or certification, like handling biohazard waste or industrial cleaning.

There isn’t typically a formal education requirement, but some employers might prefer a high school diploma or equivalent.

How long does it take to be a cleaner?

The time it takes to become a cleaner can vary depending on the complexity of the role and the training required.

Basic cleaning skills can be learned on the job within a few days to a few weeks.

For specialized roles, such as industrial cleaner or biohazard waste handler, additional training or certification might be needed, which can take several weeks to a few months to complete.

Can I become a cleaner with no previous experience?

Yes, it is possible to become a cleaner with no previous experience.

Many employers provide on-the-job training to new cleaners, where you learn about the specific cleaning protocols and equipment used by that company.

This is a role where willingness to learn and a strong work ethic are often valued more than prior experience.

Is cleaning a physically demanding job?

Cleaning can be a physically demanding job as it often involves being on your feet for extended periods, bending, reaching, pushing, pulling, and lifting heavy objects.

Regular physical activity can help prepare you for the demands of the job.

Some roles might also require you to wear protective equipment, which can add to the physical demands.

What are the prospects for cleaners in the next decade?

The prospects for cleaners are promising in the next decade.

As populations grow and businesses expand, the demand for cleaning services in both residential and commercial settings is expected to increase.

There are also opportunities for advancement within the cleaning industry, such as supervisory roles, management positions, or even starting your own cleaning business.

Additionally, specialized cleaning roles, such as industrial or hazardous waste cleaners, are expected to be in high demand due to the specific skill sets they require.

Conclusion

There you have it.

Venturing into the profession of a cleaner may not seem glamorous, but it is undeniably vital and rewarding.

Equipped with the appropriate skills, knowledge, and perseverance, you are one step closer to making a substantial difference in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene.

Remember, the journey may be tough, but the rewards are endless. Your efforts could contribute to a healthier, safer, and more pleasant living and working environment for all.

So, take that initial stride. Immerse yourself in learning. Connect with professionals. And most importantly, never stop improving your cleaning techniques.

Because the world needs and values your dedication to cleanliness.

If you’re in search of personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in the cleaning industry, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is designed to offer tailored advice and resources to help you effectively navigate your career path.

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