Train cleaners

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

A train cleaner is responsible for keeping trains and carriages clean and fresh before and during service. Tasks include emptying trash, vacuuming, mopping floors, cleaning seats, refilling toilet paper and other consumables. Train cleaners often work in teams and follow clear routines to quickly and efficiently clean carriages between departures or at depots. The work environment can be physically demanding with periods of monotonous work, often during inconvenient hours when train traffic is halted, which may include early mornings, late evenings, and weekends. Safety routines are important, as work sometimes occurs near tracks and moving equipment.

Salary development over time

The salary for train cleaners has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 25,600 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, it rose to 26 700 SEK, representing an increase of about 4.3%. In 2024, the trend continued upward with an average salary of 27 600 SEK, an additional increase of just over 3.4% from the previous year. This salary development reflects an increased focus on working conditions within service professions and a general adjustment within collective agreements for cleaning staff. Factors such as skill requirements, work environment demands, and demand for train cleaning have also positively influenced the development.

Train cleaner salary – complete 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 28,500 SEK, women 27 300 SEK (women earn 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Variations may exist depending on employer and location

Education and qualifications

To work as a train cleaner, usually no extensive formal education is required, but many employers prefer applicants with a high school diploma or equivalent. Introductory training is often provided by the employer and includes safety routines as well as handling cleaning equipment and chemicals. Some experience from service industries or cleaning can be advantageous, but personal suitability, thoroughness, and responsibility are highly valued.

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Internal training: Introduction and safety briefing from the employer
• Certifications: No formal requirements, but hygiene and safety courses may be offered
• Practical training: Hands-on experience during the introduction
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition, punctuality, and stress resistance

Common benefits and compensations

Train cleaners are often covered by collective agreements regulating salary, overtime pay, and vacation. Common benefits include overtime allowances for evening, night, and weekend work, as well as wellness subsidies and work clothing. Some employers also offer training in ergonomics and work environment, and the possibility of permanent employment after a period of temporary contracts.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for train cleaners is characterized by high demand and good employment opportunities, which is also confirmed by the large number of vacant positions within the profession. At the same time, challenges include high work pace, physically demanding tasks, and a certain proportion of part-time employment. Recruitment is often difficult due to a shortage of personnel, especially for inconvenient hours. However, those who are flexible and able to work varying hours have good chances of both permanent employment and additional work.

Tips for those who want to become a train cleaner

To succeed as a train cleaner, it is good to be thorough and detail-oriented, as clean and well-maintained trains significantly influence travelers' impressions. Flexibility is an important trait, as shifts are often scheduled early mornings or late evenings, requiring adaptability. Punctuality is appreciated by employers, as cleaning is time-critical before departures. It is also advantageous to be stress-resistant and able to work efficiently when time is limited. The ability to work in teams facilitates the workday, but independence and personal responsibility are also central. Showing engagement and initiative can lead to more responsibility or leadership roles over time. A positive attitude and good physical health make the daily work easier and make the profession both rewarding and developmental.

Key facts about train cleaners

• Education level: High school education or equivalent is sufficient
• Work environment: Physically demanding, often inconvenient hours
• Employment type: Commonly full-time and part-time
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Special skills: Safety routines and hygiene requirements are central

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a train cleaner, there may be opportunities to advance to supervisory roles such as work leader or team supervisor, especially for those showing engagement, responsibility, and initiative. Some choose to further their education in cleaning or sanitation and can then take on more specialized tasks or switch to other environments within the cleaning industry. According to the Swedish Employment Agency's forecast, job opportunities within the cleaning profession remain large, with unchanged demand over the next five years. The paradoxical recruitment situation, where many are employed part-time yet there is a shortage of staff, means that those willing to work full-time and during inconvenient hours have excellent chances of permanent employment. Currently, there are 123 job openings nationwide in the profession.

Frequently asked questions about train cleaners

• What does a train cleaner earn?
  - A train cleaner has an average salary of 27 600 SEK per month.
• How does the salary development look for train cleaners?
  - The salary has increased from 25,600 SEK (2022) to 27 600 SEK (2024), an increase of approximately 7.8% over three years.
• Is there a difference between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, men earn on average 28,500 SEK and women 27 300 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a train cleaner?
  - Usually, a high school diploma and an internal introduction from the employer are sufficient.
• What is the work environment like for train cleaners?
  - The work environment is physically demanding and often scheduled during inconvenient hours.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Opportunities for work are plentiful nationwide, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for train cleaners?
  - The highest salary is 29,700 SEK and the lowest is 25,600 SEK per month, depending on gender, education, and sector.