We often take for granted how clean our homes and workplaces are, but behind that fresh and spotless environment are cleaners who work incredibly hard—often in challenging conditions. But have you ever stopped to think about what goes into being a cleaner, and why they charge more than minimum wage?

Why Cleaners Charge More Than Minimum Wage

In the UK, workers on minimum wage who are on contract jobs have certain protections. They get 28 days of paid holidays and are compensated for every hour they work. But for cleaners who are self-employed, the reality is very different. We don’t get paid holidays, and if we’re sick or need time off, we earn nothing. Every hour we work is crucial to our livelihood.

Moreover, our job doesn’t end when we leave your house or office. We spend unpaid hours traveling between customers, washing cleaning cloths, and buying all the necessary supplies. This preparation time is just as important as the cleaning itself, but we don’t get paid for it. The cost of materials—from microfibre cloths to cleaning products—is also covered by us.

Working Conditions and Hidden Costs

Cleaning isn’t just physically demanding, it can also involve working in harmful conditions. From dealing with strong chemicals to cleaning in spaces that may pose health risks, we are often exposed to hazards that can affect our long-term well-being. In many industries, people are paid more for working in risky environments—yet cleaners rarely get that same consideration.

On top of that, there’s the reality of physical strain. Cleaning is hard work that requires stamina, attention to detail, and careful handling of tools and materials. It’s more than just dusting and wiping; it’s bending, scrubbing, and carrying heavy supplies.