Frequently asked questions
How do you become a cleaner? Where can you work? What are the working hours? Can I grow? Before you possibly decide to apply for a vacancy in cleaning, you may still have several questions. Answers to these and many other questions can be found below.
Requirements and training
Are there any requirements to work as a cleaner?
You do not need any specific training or degree if you want to apply for a job as a cleaner. A good work ethic, reliability and willingness to learn are important.
Should I speak Dutch?
No, it is not necessary. Most cleaning companies employ people of various nationalities and not everyone speaks Dutch. If it is necessary for you to speak Dutch, it is indicated in the job description.
Is experience needed to work as a cleaner?
Usually not. Many cleaning companies offer training and mentoring for new employees, so previous (cleaning) experience is not an absolute requirement.
Salary, collective labour agreement and pension
What is the salary level for cleaners?
The salary level can vary depending on the cleaning company, location and experience of the cleaner. An employer classifies each employee into a job and pay group. Read here more on employment conditions and collective agreement.
Do you receive insurance or pension schemes?
Most cleaning companies offer benefits such as insurance or pension schemes to their employees. This can vary depending on the specific company and your contractual arrangements.
As a cleaner, do you have a collective agreement?
The CLA for the Cleaning and Window Cleaning Industry applies to most cleaners working in the Netherlands. It regulates various conditions of employment, such as salary, working hours and pension.
Working as a cleaner
What work do you do as a cleaner?
Cleaners are responsible for cleaning and maintaining various areas, such as offices, homes or public places. This includes vacuuming, mopping, dusting, sanitary cleaning and rubbish removal.
What do cleaning companies care about?
All cleaning companies value honesty, reliability and respect for both customers and employees. However, each company has its own unique corporate culture, feel free to ask about it during the job interview.
In which locations can I work?
As a cleaner at a cleaning company, you can work at various locations, such as offices, schools, hospitals, hotels and more. So varied locations where each environment has its own dynamics!
Working hours
What are the working hours?
Working hours at a cleaning company can vary, but they are often flexible and adapted to the clients' needs. This may mean working in the morning, afternoon or evening, depending on appointments and your own availability.
Can I work flexible hours as a cleaner?
Yes, in many cases you can work flexible hours as a cleaner at a cleaning company. This can be useful if you have other commitments, such as study or family care. Feel free to ask about it during your job interview.
Are there opportunities to work overtime?
There may be opportunities to work overtime at a cleaning company, especially if there are busy periods or special events where extra cleaning is needed. For overtime, you will receive an allowance.
Training and advancement
Are there opportunities for advancement?
Yes, there are opportunities to grow in the cleaning business. This could be to a managerial position, for example, where you will be responsible for a team of cleaners.
Will I get training and guidance when I start?
Many cleaning companies offer training and guidance for new employees to ensure they are familiar with proper cleaning techniques, safety regulations and the specific tasks they need to perform.
What is a function and wage group?
An employer classifies each employee into a job and pay group. This allows the employee to know what position he or she is working in and what compensation is in return. This depends on training and experience.
"A varied workplace and enough exercise throughout the day
Interview - Working on the train
"A varied workplace and enough exercise during the day. I think those are the biggest advantages of train cleaning. After working in office cleaning for several years, I switched to my current employer 2 years ago. My work consists of emptying bins, cleaning sanitary facilities and making sure the trains look fresh and clean inside. Together with my colleagues, we go through the whole train so that passengers have a clean seat again. It's nice to see the results of your work immediately."
Ahmed - 53 years
Enthusiastic?
Are you ready for a varied job with good terms of employment? Where you can grow and follow internal training courses? Working with great colleagues at varied locations? Going home every day feeling satisfied because you make the Netherlands a little nicer and cleaner? Take a look at the cleaning vacancies and apply immediately!
