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Writer's pictureJuan Pablo Barbosa

Debunking Stereotypes About Being a Cleaner

Updated: May 24, 2023



Every job has stereotypes and misconceptions. For example, a hairdresser is a "hot" young woman or a gay man. Meanwhile, a construction worker is someone who is "macho" with a typically stocky build.

Even professional commercial cleaners are not safe from such stereotypes. From cleaning being a "dirty" job to not being a viable livelihood, janitors across Canada have likely been pigeonholed into certain traits or categories.

That's why this article will try to debunk some of the most common stereotypes and misconceptions about being a janitor. Hopefully more people will enjoy the job of cleaners and even consider it a viable career path!

Only women clean Back in the day when people did not have equal rights, it is true that cleaning and other household chores fell on women's shoulders. However, nowadays, men and women can share the task of keeping the house neat and organized, and this also applies to cleaning jobs.

In fact, anyone can be a professional cleaner as long as they complete the necessary training and have the necessary skills. In addition to the lack of gender bias, cleaning also has no age limit (although some tasks are better suited to older workers with greater physical ability). Being a cleaner does not require training.

While it's true that anyone can be a cleaner, that doesn't mean you can jump into this type of career right away. Of course, you must have cleaning skills. Also, you should be aware of several cleaning methods.

You should also know how to use certain types of cleaning equipment and products. For example, some cleaners are not suitable for polished wood or marble. If you use the wrong product, you will end up ruining your customer's property.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, if you want to be a professional cleaner, you must have an extensive knowledge of health and safety. That way, you can do your job efficiently without putting yourself or anyone else in danger.

That said, it's still entirely possible for someone who has no previous education or training to become a good professional cleaner. However, it is also true that being a good professional cleaner is different from being the one who does all the cleaning in the house.


Caretaking doesn't pay well Some people choose not to pursue a career in cleaning due to the misconception that it does not pay well. However, just like in any other industry, cleaners are paid based on their experience and the type of cleaning they perform.

For example, those in specialized cleaning jobs earn more because they have received specialized training. There are also sometimes additional payments or higher fees given to janitors doing risky jobs.

That said, the average earnings for professional cleaners are on the low end to $25 per hour. If you own a cleaning business, you can make more money; however, this depends on the size and level of success of your business.

Windshield wipers are subject to property damage and theft

One of the more negative stereotypes about being a cleaner is that they tend to damage objects. A growing stereotype is that cleaners steal valuables and money from their customers.

The truth is, while there are some incidents involving property damage and theft in the cleaning industry, these are by no means the norm. Also, professional cleaning companies invest heavily in hiring the right people.

On the one hand, cleaning companies provide training for their employees, from handling delicate items to using modern equipment. Cleaning services are also provided. This way, on the rare occasion that something gets damaged, all parts are sufficiently covered and protected.

Another thing commercial cleaners do is background checks on job applicants. After all, one of the goals of any business is to establish a positive reputation. Through background checks, business owners can ensure they are hiring the best employees.

Cleaners are hired by lazy people The last stereotype on this list isn't so much about cleaners, but about those who hire them. For some people, hiring cleaners is the lazy way to maintain a home or office. However, it really is a wise choice.

Many people lead busy daily lives. Parents, for example, not only work long hours at work but also help their young children with their schoolwork. Add household chores to the mix and they'll barely have time to relax.

By hiring housekeepers to take care of the house, parents can have some time for themselves. The extra hours can also be spent on quality time with your loved ones. The same can be said for offices. When you hire professional cleaners to maintain your space, you don't have to worry too much about cleanliness. You can then spend more time and resources on critical business issues. The bottom line? Being a cleaner is an honorable job that pays well and contributes to society. Be happy and proud!


CleanCol | Lethbridge's Commercial Cleaning Services

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