If you’re considering applying for a cleaning job but aren’t sure if it’s the right fit, this article can help!
Many cleaners love what they do. It can be so satisfying to make spaces sparkle, all while enjoying flexible hours.
But like other jobs, cleaning has its challenges. The work can be physically demanding, and some exposure to chemicals is unavoidable.
We’ll guide you through the pros and cons of the industry, and explain everything you need to know before becoming a cleaner.
Pros of House Cleaning | Cons of House Cleaning | Job Security | Career Progression | Final Verdict | Become a Maid2Match Cleaner
What Does a Cleaner Do?
A professional cleaner makes sure that a space is not only spotless but also hygienic and organised.
They create environments where people can live, work, or rest comfortably.
Types of cleaning jobs
Many assume that all cleaning jobs are the same, but there are actually plenty of niches to choose from.
The most common is house cleaning — this is often the best starting point for newcomers to the industry.
You’ll also find specialised residential services, like end of lease or NDIS cleaning.
End of lease cleaning is a thorough, comprehensive clean of a rental property. It’s done after a tenant moves out to help them get their full bond back.
Meanwhile, NDIS cleaning is specific to Australia. “NDIS” is short for National Disability Insurance Scheme.
This service supports people with disabilities by keeping their homes (or any supported accommodation) safe and fresh.
Beyond domestic work, there are other types of cleaning:
- Office cleaning
- Industrial cleaning (factories, warehouses)
- Healthcare cleaning (hospitals, medical laboratories)
- Commercial cleaning (retail stores, supermarkets)
Office and commercial cleaning are usually straightforward, but industrial and healthcare cleaning can involve more training and stricter standards.
What are the duties of a house cleaner?
The general duties of a house cleaner include:
- Vacuuming and mopping floors
- Emptying bins and replacing liners
- Replacing sheets and making the bed
- Cleaning the bathroom, shower, and kitchen
- Wiping down appliances, furniture, and windows
- Disinfecting high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, light switches)
You’ll need to travel to each work location, so having a car is usually a must — especially if you aim to be hired by a company.
However, there can be exceptions in major cities with more public transport options, like Melbourne and Sydney.
As for cleaning supplies, some companies — like Maid2Match — will provide everything you need. However, others might ask you to provide your own.
What skills do you need for a cleaning job?
You don’t usually need formal qualifications to become a professional cleaner in Australia.
What you’ll need is a good understanding of cleaning techniques and products.
You should also have a mix of practical and social skills:
- Attention to detail — spot dust that others might miss
- Adaptability — adjust to different duties and client requests
- Time management — finish tasks efficiently within a set timeframe
- Customer service skills — communicate professionally with clients
And of course, a no-judgment attitude is a must.
Clients rely on cleaners to care for their homes, no matter how messy they are. Showing respect goes a long way in earning their trust.
Why House Cleaning Is A Good Job
So, is cleaning a good job? The answer is yes, and for good reasons.
It offers flexibility and can be very fulfilling. Plus, even beginners can get started easily.
1. Simple entry requirements
If you’re new to the cleaning industry, don’t worry! It’s possible to become a house cleaner with zero experience.
At Maid2Match, we welcome beginners and offer training to guide them through learning the ropes.
With that said, some cleaning roles ask for 3–6 months of prior cleaning experience.
The application process typically involves sending a cover letter and resume, followed by a screening call and an interview. Most employers also require a police check.
If you plan to work with NDIS participants, you’ll need to complete the NDIS Worker Screening as well.
Maid2Match covers the costs of these checks to make things easier for applicants.
2. Flexible work schedules
Many cleaning businesses offer flexible schedules. That means you can usually work part-time if a full-time job isn’t possible.
This can be great for busy parents, uni students looking for a side hustle, or anyone with other commitments.
Flexible hours also make it easier to pursue hobbies and maintain a work-life balance.
3. Always in high demand
There’s always someone out there who needs a professional cleaner.
It might be dual-income families, those who work long hours, or older Australians who need a hand at home.
More people are also focused on keeping their spaces hygienic, especially after COVID-19.
4. Active work
If you hate sitting in front of a computer all day, house cleaning is a breath of fresh air.
As a professional cleaner, you’ll stay active for most of your shift, which will help keep you fit and strong.
All that movement is also great for mental health!
5. Lower-stress environment
We’ll be honest: no job is easy. However, many cleaners consider their work low-stress because the goal is clear.
You know exactly what needs to be done (clean homes!), unlike other occupations with shifting targets or complex projects.
And if you find cleaning therapeutic or enjoy working independently, this job might be the right fit.
6. Rewarding and satisfying
There’s nothing quite like turning a messy space into a spotless one. But that’s just part of why cleaning is so rewarding.
Cleaning is not just a job — it’s an opportunity to make someone’s life easier, especially older folks or people with disabilities.
That’s why at Maid2Match, we make sure that hard work is recognised.
Every 5-star rating our Field Staff earn is shared with them so they can clearly see the value they contribute.
Why House Cleaning Might Not Be A Good Job
While cleaning as a career offers many benefits, it also comes with some disadvantages.
Maid2Match ensures that our professional cleaners feel supported, so they can do their best work despite these challenges.
1. Physically demanding work
If you’re thinking about becoming a cleaner, it’s important to know that it can be a physically demanding job.
At work, you’ll often bend, squat, or move items like small appliances and chairs.
For most people in good health, all these are very doable and shouldn’t be an issue. Many even see cleaning as a form of exercise.
That said, working as a cleaner may not be advisable if you have an existing injury or any condition that limits your mobility.
2. Exposure to hazards and chemicals
House cleaners could face minor risks like slips and falls, so it’s important to be alert and careful on the job.
They also handle certain cleaning products that might contain harmful chemicals.
To prepare for potential hazards, Maid2Match cleaners undergo Health and Safety Training and In-Field Training.
We also encourage our employees to wear gloves and a mask for protection.
Still, some exposure to chemicals may be unavoidable. So if you have sensitive skin or respiratory issues, a cleaning job may not be the best fit.
3. Potentially difficult customers
As a house cleaner, you’ll work with all kinds of clients, and not all of them will be easy to please.
Some may be overly critical or have very specific — or even unreasonable — requests.
This means you’ll need to manage their expectations and sometimes handle complaints, all while staying professional.
To ease the pressure on our cleaners, Maid2Match has a dedicated customer support team.
They take care of clients’ concerns, letting our cleaners focus on their speciality – cleaning!
4. Perception and social stigma
Unfortunately, some people still have outdated views about house cleaners, seeing them as low-skilled workers.
But in reality, this role requires attention to detail, planning, and time management.
Cleaners also need to be highly adaptable, constantly learning clever ways to do their job efficiently.
In established companies like Maid2Match, cleaning isn’t a dead end job. You’re encouraged to hone your skills and advance to leadership roles.
Can You Expect Job Security as a House Cleaner?
It all depends on your employment arrangement.
Permanent employee cleaners have the most stability. They receive guaranteed hours each week, ensuring a steady paycheck.
They also receive benefits like superannuation and paid leave.
Casual employees, on the other hand, have unpredictable hours and variable pay.
Many cleaners also work as independent contractors, which is the most common setup.
They set their own schedules and rates but are responsible for their own cleaning supplies, insurance, and taxes.
Moreover, they might earn less if they contract through a company that takes a percentage of their income or charges a fee per job.
Those who work directly with clients have more control over their earnings, but that means handling their own marketing.
Here’s a more detailed comparison of each arrangement:
| PERMANENT EMPLOYEE CLEANER | CASUAL EMPLOYEE CLEANER | INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR |
|---|---|---|
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Is There Career Progression for Cleaners?
For many, having room to grow is key to job satisfaction. The good news: permanent employee house cleaners can move beyond entry-level work.
At Maid2Match, we offer a Pathways Program, which provides a unique opportunity in the cleaning industry for career progression.
With strong performance and steady reliability, you can take on more responsibility and earn higher pay.
You could work your way up to becoming a Trainer, Team Leader, or even a Division Manager.
However, casual workers and contractors aren’t offered the same opportunities because they lack the benefits of permanent employment.
Is Cleaning the Right Job For You?
It ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Cleaning can be a great job if you enjoy working independently and value flexibility.
Many house cleaners also find it satisfying to help other people or see the results of their hard work right away.
That said, this role can be physically demanding and involves some exposure to chemicals. You might also have to handle challenging clients at times.
At the end of the day, housekeeping jobs have their pros and cons. So be sure to weigh them carefully against your goals, health, and lifestyle!
Become a Maid2Match Cleaner Today
If you’re considering a career as a house cleaner, it helps to choose the right employer.
Maid2Match hires permanent part-time house cleaners across Australia.
We offer:
- Flexible hours (no evening or weekend work)
- Training for those without cleaning experience
- Competitive rates with added benefits (paid leave, superannuation)
Most importantly, we’re a transparent organisation that values and respects our cleaners.
Our goal is to raise the standards for the domestic cleaning industry, so every cleaner receives fair pay, stability, and recognition.
Check out our Careers page to explore cleaning jobs in Adelaide, Brisbane, Geelong, and more!
