How Much Do Commercial Cleaners Get Paid

Commercial cleaning is a vital service that keeps businesses and public spaces clean and safe. But have you ever wondered how much these essential workers get paid? Here's a breakdown of what commercial cleaners can expect to earn.

1. The national average salary for commercial cleaners The national average salary for commercial cleaners, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is $28,650 per year or $13.76 per hour. However, this figure can vary widely depending on several factors, including experience, location, and industry. In some areas of the country, commercial cleaners earn significantly less than this average. At the same time, in other regions, the pay is much higher. Furthermore, while $13.76 per hour may seem like a decent wage, it's important to note that many commercial cleaners are part-time or hourly employees, and their hours can be unpredictable. This can make it difficult for them to make ends meet or to plan for the future.
2. How location affects pay. Location plays a significant role in determining how much commercial cleaners get paid. In metropolitan areas, where the cost of living is higher, cleaners can expect to earn more than their counterparts in rural areas. This is because employers in cities often have to pay higher wages to attract workers who may have more job opportunities. Additionally, some states have higher minimum wage rates than others. For example, in California, the minimum wage for employers with 26 or more employees is $14 per hour; in Alabama, it's only $7.25 per hour. These differences can impact commercial cleaners' wages, depending on where they work.
3. Experience matters. As with most jobs, experience plays a significant role in determining a commercial cleaner's pay. Entry-level cleaners may earn less than those with years of experience, as they still need to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to be efficient and effective. On the other hand, cleaners who have been in the industry for many years may command higher wages due to their expertise and ability to take on more complex tasks. Additionally, some companies offer higher pay for positions of greater responsibility, such as team leaders or supervisors. These positions may require management experience or other specialized skills and knowledge; therefore, they may come with higher salaries.
4. Industries that pay the most While commercial cleaners are necessary in all industries, some sectors pay more than others. For example, commercial cleaners who work in healthcare facilities may earn higher salaries due to the increased need for cleanliness and sanitation. In these environments, the risk of infection and illness is more elevated. Therefore, cleaners must take extra precautions to protect patients, staff, and visitors. Additionally, commercial cleaners specializing in hazardous materials, such as asbestos or lead, may earn higher wages due to the risks involved in handling these materials. These workers must be trained to follow strict safety protocols, and their expertise comes at a premium.
5. Benefits and opportunities for advancement While salary is essential, many commercial cleaners also look for benefits and opportunities for improvement when considering potential employers. Some companies offer benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, which can significantly affect a worker's quality of life. Additionally, some employers offer opportunities for advancement within the company, such as promotions to supervisory or management positions. These opportunities can provide additional income, greater job security, and the chance to develop new skills and take on new challenges. In conclusion, while the average salary for commercial cleaners may vary depending on location, experience, and industry, it's clear that these workers play an essential role in keeping our workplaces and public spaces clean and safe. They deserve fair compensation, benefits, and opportunities for advancement, and we should all recognize their vital work.

Source facts about how much commercial cleaners get paid:

1. According to a 2021 Economic Policy Institute (EPI) report, the median hourly wage for janitors and cleaners was $12.68 in 2020. However, the report notes that many workers in the industry earn even less than that, particularly those who work part-time or are self-employed. Source: Economic Policy Institute. (2021). Janitors and Cleaners.
2. A 2019 survey of over 2,000 commercial cleaners conducted by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) found that the average hourly wage was $11.63. The survey also found that many workers still needed to receive benefits such as healthcare or paid sick leave. Source: Service Employees International Union
3. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the median hourly wage for janitors and building cleaners was $13.79 as of May 2020. However, wages varied widely depending on the industry and location. Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2021). Janitors and Building Cleaners.
4. In a 2020 survey of over 1,000 commercial cleaning business owners conducted by CleanLink, 42% reported paying their employees between $10 and $12 per hour, while 28% reported paying between $12 and $14 per hour. Source: CleanLink. (2020). 2020 Commercial Cleaning Industry Overview & Market Report.
5. According to a 2019 National Employment Law Project (NELP) report, the median hourly wage for janitors and cleaners in the United States was $11.43. The report also found that many workers in the industry still needed to receive benefits such as healthcare or paid time off. Source: National Employment Law Project. (2019). Cleaning Up: How Low Wages and No Paid Leave Affect Workers and Consumers.