Local cleaners

What does a local cleaner do? – Tasks and work environment

A local cleaner is responsible for keeping various types of premises clean and pleasant. The work includes daily cleaning of surfaces such as floors, toilets, windows, stairwells, and offices, and sometimes minor maintenance. Cleaning can be performed manually or with the help of machines and specialized equipment, depending on the size and requirements of the premises. The work environment varies between public buildings, schools, hospitals, offices, and private homes, often taking place early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid disrupting activities. The profession sometimes involves solitary work, but can also be performed in teams depending on the scope of the assignment and the size of the workplace.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for local cleaners has increased steadily. In 2022, the average salary was 25,600 SEK, rising to 26 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 27 600 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of approximately 7.8% over the period. Factors driving this salary increase include an increased focus on work environment and quality within the cleaning sector, as well as a general labor shortage in the profession, which has pushed up wage levels. Despite this, the average salary for the profession remains slightly below the national average, but the positive trend has been clear and stable in recent years.

Local cleaner salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 29,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 166 SEK
• Men's average salary: 28,500 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 27 300 SEK/month
• Women earn: 96% of what men do
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on county and labor market demand

Education and qualifications

To work as a local cleaner, no formal education is required, but many employers prefer applicants to have completed high school, often within service or hospitality programs. Many workplaces also offer internal training or introductory courses for new employees. Practical experience is highly valued, and there are opportunities to take specialized courses in areas such as environmentally friendly cleaning techniques or machine operation to broaden skills and increase employability.

• High school diploma: Hotel and tourism programs are common
• Internal training: Many employers provide introductory courses
• Specialized courses: Courses in environmental and chemical handling can be advantageous
• Internships: Practical experience from similar work is often beneficial
• Prerequisites: Proficiency in Swedish, spoken and written, facilitates communication

Common benefits and compensations

Local cleaners often have the right to overtime pay for work during evenings, nights, and weekends, as well as holiday pay according to collective agreements. Other common benefits include wellness contributions, work clothing, and sometimes opportunities for further training within the company. Many employers also offer pension contributions and insurance as part of employment conditions.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs in cleaning is generally low, as demand for the profession is high and the number of available positions often exceeds the number of applicants. At the same time, challenges include a high proportion of part-time employment and some staff turnover, which can create uncertainty for those seeking long-term careers. The work is physically demanding and can involve monotonous tasks, requiring endurance and precision. Additionally, workload peaks may occur during certain periods, especially in public environments or during large events. Despite these challenges, the profession offers good employment opportunities and a stable labor market.

Tips for those who want to become a local cleaner

To succeed as a local cleaner, it is good to be thorough and have an eye for detail, as a clean result often requires systematic work and precision. Flexibility is an important trait, as working hours can vary and quick adjustments between different workplaces are sometimes needed. Being service-minded facilitates contact with colleagues and customers, especially in environments where cleaning occurs while operations are ongoing. Physical endurance is also important since the work can be both physically demanding and repetitive. Furthermore, being self-reliant and able to take initiative is advantageous, while teamwork skills are often appreciated by employers. Staying updated on new cleaning methods and environmentally friendly products can also improve both work environment and results.

Key facts about local cleaners

• Education level: Usually high school or internal training
• Work environment: Varies – schools, offices, hospitals, public environments
• Employment type: Both full-time and part-time are common
• Demand: Great opportunities for nationwide employment
• Special skills: Machine cleaning and chemical handling are advantageous

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a local cleaner can advance to supervisory roles such as team leader or supervisor within cleaning companies. There are also opportunities to specialize in areas like floor care, sanitation, or environmentally friendly cleaning. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities remain large, and demand is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. Despite a paradoxical recruitment situation, with many part-time workers and difficulty finding personnel, the labor market is considered stable. For those interested in further education, roles such as cleaning coordinator or supervisor within larger companies can be next steps.

Frequently asked questions about local cleaners

• What is the average salary of a local cleaner?
  - A local cleaner has an average salary of 27 600 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a local cleaner?
  - Most often, a high school diploma or internal training is required, but formal requirements vary between employers.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 96% of what men do within the profession.
• What does the job market look like for local cleaners?
  - Opportunities for employment are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a local cleaner?
  - The highest salary is 29,700 SEK and the lowest is 25,600 SEK per month.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Overtime pay, wellness contributions, work clothing, and insurance are common.
• What are the career development opportunities?
  - After a few years, there is a chance to become a supervisor or specialize in areas such as machine cleaning.