Why Training Matters In The Cleaning Industry

Would you be comfortable if your cleaner used the wrong solution on your countertops or brand new kitchen floor? Are you confident that your cleaner knows what materials they're working with and understands which products are safe to use? I'm often asked what sets me apart from a cash in hand cleaner. One major difference is knowledge. As a self-employed cleaner and housekeeper, I take full responsibility for my own training, research and development. I consistently invest in courses and training programs to ensure I have the expertise and skills needed to provide top tier professional cleaning.

As cleaners, it's crucial that we truly understand our craft, including the science behind it. It's vital for me to be able to identify the materials and surfaces in my client's homes, know which chemicals are safe to use on them (and at the correct dilution) and fully understand the chemical composition and pH of the products I'm using. This knowledge is essential not only for my own health and safety but also for that of my clients. Simply guessing or taking risks is never an option. I must also be aware of the correct dwell times, as even a small mistake can permanently damage a surface without any chance of restoration. Additionally, I often have to consider the safety of pets or family members with allergies when choosing products. I firmly believe that ongoing training for all cleaners is essential to stay up to date with industry standards, best practices and procedures.

I am fully trained to identify the various materials and finishes I will be cleaning across different areas, so I can determine which cleaning products are safe to use on each surface. This expertise comes from extensive training in all aspects of cleaning, along with up to date COSHH courses. COSHH stands for the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health, and it relates to the chemicals (whether eco-friendly or not) that I use in my cleaning process. This includes not just the chemicals themselves, but also any fumes, dust, vapours, mists or gases they may produce.

Training is a twofold process. It ensures I understand the health and safety aspects of the products I use, but also that I am knowledgeable about the chemical makeup of these products and the different types of surfaces in your home. This reduces the likelihood of making mistakes. I am also a proud member of several trade associations within the cleaning industry, which gives me access to excellent training, product recommendations and updates on industry standards and health and safety regulations. This ensures that I am always up to date and well informed, allowing me to provide the most professional service possible when cleaning your home or business.

This knowledge allows me to offer valuable advice to my clients on proper maintenance. For example, flooring can vary greatly, ranging from hard to soft surfaces, and within that range, there are countless materials, each requiring its own specific cleaning methods and products (such as hardwood, laminate, tile, LVT, natural stone, carpet and more).

Take the Amtico floor in the photograph as an example. It requires an annual maintenance clean to strip it and replace the top surface layer. This process helps prevent damage and extends its lifespan. Believe it or not, vacuuming is actually not recommended for this type of floor and instead, a specialist cleaning solution should be used rather than a standard floor cleaner. These are all details you might not know if you didn't recognise this type of flooring.

Would your cleaner be able to tell the difference? They should, because knowing this is crucial in making the right choice of cleaning tools and products for your floors, whether it's a vacuum, mop or the appropriate cleaning solution. Using the wrong product or method could lead to costly damage. This principle applies not only to floors but to every aspect of cleaning, whether in a home or commercial property.

The phrase "just a cleaner" should no longer be heard in the industry.