Recognising Cleaning:
Giving someone recognition for their cleaning is not a bad thing! Cleaning is something we do on a daily/weekly basis whether it be at home, office, or even a public area. Most people see cleaning as a simple job, wiping surfaces removing dust, sweeping, vacuuming etc. However, the reality is that cleaning requires a lot more effort and time and some people put cleaning off.
Cleaning isn’t just about making things looks nice; it’s about hygiene standards and mental health. From the physical labour to time and dedication, cleaning is HARD WORK, and in this blog, we will be exploring why cleaning is more than just a routine task and why cleaning should really get the recognition it deserves.
The demands of cleaning:
Cleaning isn’t all about bending down or leisurely vacuuming the floors. Cleaning can be a lot more intense than that and it can involve a combination of:
Carrying and lifting – moving large and heavy items
Scrubbing and wiping – Wiping and then scrubbing several surfaces
Repeated movements – vacuuming or mopping
For professional cleaners these methods are conducted daily for long periods of time therefore making cleaning a physically demanding job. It can easily be underestimated how long cleaning can take especially if you’re cleaning on your own.
Attention to detail behind cleaning
Cleaning isn’t just about physical health it can also require planning, organising and having attention to small details. You can’t just use the same product for everything; an effective cleaning method consists of:
Knowing what type of product to use on each surface.
The right order to clean e.g. dusting, vacuuming and then wiping.
Making sure that neglected areas get a deep clean.
Knowing the difference between cleaning, sanitising and disinfecting – Click here to read our LinkedIn post about this topic.
One thing you will notice is that people who clean professionally will work efficiently to ensure that every area is covered within a limited amount of time. Doing this means that you need to have problem solving and time management skills especially when it comes to dealing with an unexpected mess.
For professional cleaners these methods are conducted daily for long periods of time therefore making cleaning a physically demanding job. It can easily be underestimated how long cleaning can take especially if you’re cleaning on your own.
Challenges you experience when cleaning:
Many people think that cleaning is easy however several different challenges you may face can make it a tough experience
Tasks that can be time consuming – A thorough cleaning cannot be rushed – ensuring a successful outcome means making sure that it’s done correctly ESPECIALLY deep cleaning. Organising, washing and scrubbing all adds up especially if you have distractions that take up extra time i.e. monitors, working around client’s staff or if you’re at home your children.
Exposure to germs and chemicals – Cleaning also means dealing with germs and bacteria which also means putting the cleaner at risk of exposure to these. In a healthcare setting (head to the healthcare section of our website for more information) cleaners will play a crucial role in infection control making their job even more crucial.
In addition to this, many cleaning roles use products that include harsh chemicals that can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions or if not used right anaphylactic shock which could then lead to hospital treatment. This is why the importance of using the right PPE is crucial. Many people are unaware of these risks.
Stubborn stains & messes – In the world of cleaning, you will always find stains that are not so easy to remove. You have grease in the kitchen, carpet stains, mould growth, these forms of bacteria require special cleaning techniques. These cleaning issues can take a lot of patience and persistence. Sometimes it may be the case that you have call in professionals
Cleaning is a never-ending cycle – Cleaning is a constant battle – the moment you finish, items start to get dirty again. Dust starts to settle, dishes start to pile up and stains start to appear. The list could go on. This is why people try to clean daily/weekly. It’s a job that never truly ends.
Cleaning is a life skill:
Cleaning isn’t just a responsibility – it’s a valuable life skill that everyone should learn. Teaching children and young adults how to clean properly helps to prepare them for independence.
Cleaning teaches responsibility and accountability – Assigning tasks at home helps children and teenagers to understand the importance of taking care of their space.
Cleaning promotes health and hygiene – many young people do not understand that a dirty environment can lead to health issues. Teaching them cleaning habits ensures that they understand the importance of hygiene and how it can help with preventing illnesses.
By teaching children and young adults proper cleaning habits we are setting them up for a healthier, more independent and more successful future.
Whether they are preparing for university or leaving for their first home having the ability to maintain a clean and organised space will serve them well for a lifetime
The heroes of cleaning:
A professional cleaners work is carried out behind the scenes, however their contributions are vital. Without them hospitals would be unsafe, offices would be unhygienic, and public spaces would be unsanitary.
Hospital cleaning staff help prevent the spread of infections
Office and school cleaning staff keep work and learning environments safe and clean
These individuals often work long hours, the handle a lot of mess but still they are the staff that receive little to no appreciation. Recognising and respecting their hard work is crucial and allows cleaners to walk away from site happy and knowing they have fulfilled their duty.
Why cleaning needs more recognition:
Despite all the hard work that goes into cleaning, you’ll be shocked with how often it goes unnoticed. People can walk into the room; notice it’s been cleaned but not think about who cleaned it or how long it may have taken.
So, here’s why cleaning deserves more respect and recognition:
Cleaning contributes to health and hygiene – Without regular cleaning, bacteria and germs can spread rapidly which can lead to illnesses.
Improves productivity – A clean environment reduces stress and helps with mental wellbeing
It’s essential for public sectors – Schools, Offices, Hospital and catering sectors would not be able to function without a proper clean.
Next time you enter a clean space, take a moment to appreciate the hard work behind it. Whether that be cleaning done by yourself, a family member, or even a professional cleaner.
Cleaning may seem like a simple task, but it involves physical effort, mental focus, and emotional resilience. It’s not just about making things look good; it’s about keeping environments safe, comfortable, and healthy.
Final Thoughts:
For all those people who clean professionally or take cleaning on themselves, it can be exhausting and often not appreciated. Making sure the hard work which gets put into cleaning receives the recognition it deserves will make cleaners feel appreciated and that their hard work had paid off.
So next time you’re cleaning or see someone else cleaning remember – it’s not just a chore it’s hard work and it has taken someone hours to clean. Give them the recognition they deserve
