What does a cleaner do? – Tasks and work environment
A cleaner is responsible for cleaning and maintaining various types of premises, such as offices, schools, hospitals, and public environments. Tasks include vacuuming, floor care, window cleaning, trash disposal, and disinfecting surfaces. Handling cleaning machines and chemicals is often involved, requiring precision and knowledge of safety regulations. The work environment can range from quiet office settings to more demanding environments with higher physical workload, especially during major cleaning jobs or in healthcare settings.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, cleaner salaries have steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 25,600 SEK, rising to 26 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 27 600 SEK, representing an approximate 8% increase over the period. The salary growth mainly reflects collective agreement increases and a rising demand for the profession, while some employers in certain regions have struggled to recruit staff. The gender pay gap is relatively small but still exists, with regional variations depending on the labor market and employers.
Cleaner salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month (male, municipal sector); 25,700 SEK/month (female)
- Highest salary: 29,700 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education); 28,500 SEK/month (female)
- Hourly wage: 166 SEK
- Gender differences: Men earn 28,500 SEK, women 27 300 SEK (women earn 96% of men's salary)
- Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on labor market and region
Education and qualifications
The path to working as a cleaner typically requires no formal education, but a high school diploma and introductory courses in cleaning techniques are advantageous. Many employers offer internal training and supervision on the job, especially in chemical handling and machine cleaning. Some experience or prior knowledge in service professions can be beneficial.
- Type of education: High school diploma, with focus on service or practical programs
- Certifications: Cleaning training or SRY certificate can be advantageous
- Internship: Often included, with workplace introduction
- Prerequisites: Good physical ability and proficiency in Swedish, both spoken and written
- Tips: Courses in hygiene and work environment can increase employability
Cleaners often work outside regular office hours, which allows for flexible schedules and can facilitate combining work with studies or other commitments. The profession suits many who seek a varied workday and independence.
Common benefits and compensations
Cleaners are often covered by collective agreements that include evening and weekend supplement pay, holiday pay, and insurance coverage for illness and work-related injuries. Some employers also offer wellness allowances, work clothing, and opportunities for further training in cleaning techniques or specialized cleaning.
Competition and challenges
The demand for cleaners remains high, but the labor market is characterized by recruitment difficulties, especially since many jobs are part-time. There is a paradox where the potential pool of job seekers is large, but matching with employers' needs is limited. The work environment can be physically demanding, involving heavy lifting or repetitive motions, requiring good health and endurance. Tasks are often independent, but teamwork and flexibility are needed to meet varying customer requirements and schedules.
Tips for those who want to become a cleaner
To succeed as a cleaner, attention to detail and thoroughness are important, as the quality of work is often directly noticeable. Good physical endurance is helpful since the job can be active and physically demanding. Flexibility and adaptability to different work environments or hours are also vital, especially since many cleaners work outside normal office hours. The ability to work independently, take responsibility for tasks, and provide good service is valued by employers. Further training in specialized cleaning or team leadership can be a career step. Finally, a friendly attitude and ability to collaborate with colleagues and clients provide a solid foundation for the role.
Key facts about Cleaners
- Education level: High school diploma or equivalent
- Work environment: Varied, often physically demanding
- Work types: Part-time and full-time, often shift or evening work
- Demand: Large opportunities for employment nationwide
- Special skills: Cleaning machines, chemical handling
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a cleaner can advance to supervisor, trainer in cleaning techniques, or specialize in areas such as sanitation or floor care. With experience, opportunities also exist to become area managers or move into administrative roles within cleaning companies. The Employment Service's forecasts indicate that job opportunities for cleaners are plentiful and expected to remain stable over the next five years. The number of available positions is high, making it a stable choice for those seeking work in service and sanitation.
Frequently asked questions about Cleaners
- What is the average salary for a Cleaner?
- The average salary for a cleaner is 27 600 SEK per month.
- How has the salary development for cleaners looked over time?
- Salaries have increased from 25,600 SEK in 2022 to 27 600 SEK in 2024.
- Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
- Yes, men earn on average 28,500 SEK while women earn 27 300 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
- What is the highest salary for a cleaner?
- The highest salary is 29,700 SEK and belongs to a man in the private sector with post-secondary education.
- What education is required to become a cleaner?
- Usually, a high school diploma or equivalent, along with an introduction at the workplace, is required.
- What are the future prospects for cleaners?
- Job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to be unchanged in the coming years.
- What work environments are common for cleaners?
- Cleaners work in offices, schools, hospitals, and other public environments, often outside regular hours.
