Property cleaners

What does a Property Cleaner do? – Tasks and work environment

A property cleaner is responsible for keeping properties, common areas, and premises clean and pleasant. The work includes daily cleaning of stairwells, laundry rooms, basements, entrances, and sometimes office spaces or other shared areas within a property. Tasks often involve vacuuming, wet mopping floors, cleaning glass surfaces, emptying trash bins, and minor maintenance. The work environment is mobile and often independent, with the workday varying depending on the size and type of property. Cleaning tasks can sometimes involve heavy lifting and working at inconvenient hours, but also carry a significant responsibility to create a safe and pleasant environment for residents or staff in the property.

Salary development over time

The salary level for property cleaners has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 25,600 SEK per month, which increased to 26 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 27 600 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 8% over the period, which is slightly higher than the general salary development for similar service professions. The salary increase can largely be explained by increased demand for cleaning services and a greater focus on hygiene and indoor environment, especially after the pandemic. At the same time, employers in property management and cleaning companies have had to raise wages to attract and retain staff, as the profession is characterized by some staff turnover and a high need for available workforce. Despite this positive trend, relatively small differences remain between men's and women's salaries, but the overall increase benefits all in the profession.

Property Cleaner salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month (men), 25,700 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 29,700 SEK/month (men), 28,500 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 166 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do
• Regional differences: Data on regional differences is unavailable

Education and qualifications

The path to working as a property cleaner is often flexible and accessible to many. Formal education is rarely required, but many employers prefer applicants to have completed high school programs with a focus on cleaning or similar. Practical experience and on-the-job introduction are common, and some employers offer internal training or certification courses to strengthen knowledge of cleaning techniques, ergonomics, and environmental work. Since the profession requires accuracy and responsibility, previous experience from service jobs or property management is advantageous.

• Formal education: High school programs with a focus on cleaning, not required but advantageous
• Certifications/courses: Internal training in cleaning techniques and environmental work are available
• Internship: On-the-job introduction and internships are common
• Prerequisites: Basic Swedish language skills and service orientation are appreciated
• Tips for selection: Employers value punctuality, accuracy, and responsibility

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothes, and sometimes collective insurance are often offered. Some employers also provide training opportunities, extra pay for inconvenient hours, and the possibility of part-time or full-time positions based on the employee's needs. Vacation pay and occupational pension are usually included in the employment.

Challenges and competition

The property cleaning profession is characterized by a relatively high demand, meaning job opportunities are abundant nationwide. At the same time, there are challenges related to work environment and workload, especially when working in older buildings or during periods of high sick leave. The industry also faces a paradoxical recruitment situation where many work part-time, while employers find it difficult to fill full-time positions. Physical strain and monotonous tasks can be challenging, but for those who enjoy active and practical work, the profession offers good opportunities for stable employment and development.

Tips for those wanting to become a Property Cleaner

To succeed as a property cleaner, it is good to combine accuracy and a sense of responsibility with a positive attitude towards service. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to different work environments make it easier to handle varied tasks and unexpected situations. Punctuality and the ability to work independently are highly valued, while teamwork facilitates contact with colleagues and residents. Good physical fitness and endurance are important to handle the physical aspects of the job. Being attentive to wishes and quickly solving problems also provides an advantage in the profession. Finally, showing engagement and a willingness to learn new work methods pays off, as development opportunities within the industry are good for those who take initiative.

Key facts about Property Cleaners

• Education level: High school education often advantageous but not required
• Work environment: Independent and mobile work in properties
• Demand: Great opportunities for nationwide employment
• Typical employment form: Full-time or part-time, often during daytime
• Special skills: Cleaning techniques and environmental work are appreciated

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as team leader or supervisor within property cleaning. Further education can also lead to more specialized positions, such as environmental cleaner or trainer in cleaning techniques. The Swedish Employment Service's projections indicate that job opportunities for property cleaners are large nationwide, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Currently, there are 123 job openings in the profession, reflecting a strong labor market. Recruitment difficulties may occur, especially for full-time roles, which opens opportunities for more to enter and develop within the profession.

Frequently asked questions about Property Cleaners

• What is the average salary of a Property Cleaner?
  - The average salary for a property cleaner is 27 600 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 96% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the highest salary for a Property Cleaner?
  - The highest salary is 29,700 SEK per month, belonging to a man with private employment and post-secondary education shorter than 3 years.
• What education is required to become a Property Cleaner?
  - Formal education is rarely required, but a high school diploma in cleaning is advantageous.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Job opportunities are considered large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What tasks does a Property Cleaner perform?
  - Tasks include cleaning common areas, maintenance, and contact with residents.
• What is the most common form of employment?
  - Full-time or part-time, often during daytime hours, is most common.