Cleaning jobs exist in almost every building: offices, schools, hospitals, shops, factories, gyms, airports and apartment blocks. Many roles need no formal qualifications, shifts are often early morning or evening, and part-time hours are common, which makes cleaning a practical option for students, parents and people changing careers. Experienced cleaners can move into supervisory roles, specialist cleaning or facilities management.
This guide explains the job, the safety rules that protect cleaners and how to find genuine vacancies. We do not list vacancies or quote pay: wages depend on country, employer and contract, so we link to official sources instead.
What cleaners and janitors do
The US occupational database O*NET describes janitors and cleaners as keeping buildings clean and in orderly condition. Typical tasks include:
- Sweeping, mopping, vacuuming and polishing floors.
- Cleaning and disinfecting toilets, washrooms and kitchens.
- Emptying bins and handling recycling.
- Dusting surfaces, cleaning glass and wiping touch points such as door handles.
- Restocking soap, paper and other supplies.
- Reporting repairs, leaks or safety hazards.
- In some roles, operating floor machines or doing minor maintenance.
Where cleaners work
- Commercial cleaning contractors that serve offices and shops.
- Schools and universities, often with evening shifts.
- Hospitals and care homes, with stricter infection control rules.
- Hotels and hospitality (see our hotel housekeeping guide).
- Industrial sites, where specialist training may be needed.
- Private homes, often self-employed or through agencies.
A typical shift
Most shifts start by collecting keys, checking a task list and preparing a trolley with the right products, colour-coded cloths and protective equipment. Cleaners usually follow a fixed route so that nothing is missed and high-traffic areas are done when buildings are empty. At the end, equipment is cleaned, products are stored safely and any issues are logged for the supervisor.
Safety rules that protect you
Cleaning chemicals
Many cleaning products are hazardous if misused. In the US, OSHA’s Hazard Communication standard requires employers to provide information and training on hazardous chemicals, including labels and safety data sheets. In Great Britain, the HSE explains employers’ duties under COSHH, the regulations on substances hazardous to health. Practical rules:
- Never mix products, especially bleach with acids or ammonia-based cleaners.
- Use the gloves, eye protection or masks provided.
- Keep products in labelled containers.
- Ask for the safety data sheet if you are unsure about a product.
Manual handling and slips
Lifting heavy bags, pushing trolleys and repetitive movements can cause injuries. The HSE’s guidance on musculoskeletal disorders and OSHA’s ergonomics pages explain how employers should reduce these risks. Use wet floor signs and wear non-slip shoes.
Skills employers look for
- Reliability and punctuality, since many contracts depend on fixed time windows.
- Attention to detail and pride in a finished job.
- Ability to work alone and follow a checklist.
- Physical stamina.
- Honesty, as cleaners often work in empty buildings with valuables.
- Basic reading skills for labels and instructions.
Pay and contracts: what to check
Ask in writing for the hourly rate, guaranteed hours, travel time between sites, overtime and whether you are employed or self-employed. Many cleaning jobs are with contractors rather than the building owner. Check official minimum wage information for your country, for example the UK National Minimum Wage rates.
Tips for your first weeks
- Learn the colour code. Many sites use different coloured cloths and mops for toilets, kitchens and general areas to stop germs spreading.
- Read labels before you start and follow the dilution instructions.
- Work top to bottom and clean to dirty, so dust and dirt fall onto areas you have not yet cleaned.
- Report problems immediately, from a broken lock to a leaking pipe.
- Keep a short checklist for each site until the route becomes routine.
How to apply, step by step
- Decide your preferred hours and area. Cleaning shifts are often outside office hours.
- Write a one-page CV. Include any cleaning, hospitality or care experience, your availability and any training such as chemical safety.
- Search official and employer job boards. In the US, use CareerOneStop; in the UK, Find a job.
- Prepare for a short interview or trial. Expect questions about reliability, working alone and handling chemicals.
- Check the contract and ask about training, uniforms and protective equipment.
Official US Department of Labor-sponsored portal. We are not an employer or agency.
Avoiding job scams
Genuine employers do not charge you to apply or ask you to buy a “starter kit”. Be cautious with offers that pay unusually well for little work, ask for bank details before an interview or are only offered through messaging apps. Report fraud at ReportFraud.ftc.gov in the US.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need experience to work as a cleaner?
Often not. Many employers train new staff.
Are cleaning jobs available part time?
Yes. Early morning and evening part-time shifts are very common.
Is hospital cleaning different?
Yes. It involves stricter infection control procedures and specific training.
Can I work as a self-employed cleaner?
Yes, but you will be responsible for your own taxes, insurance and supplies.
Sources
- O*NET – Janitors and Cleaners
- OSHA – Hazard Communication
- HSE – COSHH
- National Careers Service – Cleaner
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Opportuly Careers is an independent guide. We do not hire, represent any employer or charge for information.
