Cleaning on Resume

Should You List Cleaning on Resume

Including cleaning as a skill on your resume depends on the job you are applying for and your professional context. In some industries, particularly those that involve housekeeping, janitorial services, or hospitality, listing cleaning skills is essential. Even in non-traditional fields, demonstrating cleanliness and organization can be valuable to employers who prioritize efficiency, safety, and professionalism.

However, it's essential to understand regional differences when considering this aspect. In the United States, job seekers often list specific cleaning skills when applying for positions where those skills are directly relevant (e.g., maid services, sanitation roles, or facilities management). In contrast, international applicants may find that their resume formats differ significantly, and cleaning skills may be less emphasized in certain regions.

Why to List Cleaning on Resume

• Demonstrates Attention to Detail: Cleaning involves a keen eye for detail and the ability to spot potential issues that may impact safety or productivity. Employers value candidates who can maintain a clean, organized workspace.
• Highlights Efficiency: Cleaning efficiently and effectively can save time, resources, and money. Employers appreciate candidates who can work quickly and effectively without compromising quality.
• Promotes Professionalism: A clean work environment is important for professionalism in most industries. By listing cleaning skills on your resume, you demonstrate your commitment to maintaining a high level of professionalism.
• Enhances Personal Brand: Cleanliness and organization can be part of a candidate's personal brand, showcasing their reliability, discipline, and dedication.

Where to List Cleaning on Resume

• Skills Section: Include cleaning as a specific skill under the relevant section, such as "Technical Skills" or "Soft Skills." Here, you can list cleaning-related abilities like:
• Sanitation and disinfection practices
• Use of equipment (vacuum cleaners, mops, brooms)
• Cleaning product knowledge
• Time management for efficient cleaning
• Work Experience Section: If your previous work experiences have involved cleaning responsibilities, detail these in the work experience section. Highlight any accomplishments related to cleaning, such as improving efficiency or implementing new cleaning protocols.
• Projects or Achievements Section: If you have completed significant cleaning projects or achieved notable results related to cleanliness and organization, consider including them under this section. For example:
• Cleaned and restored a historic building using eco-friendly cleaning products
• Implemented a new cleaning schedule that reduced time spent on janitorial tasks by 30%
• Certifications and Licenses: If you hold certifications related to cleaning, such as the Certified Healthcare Environmental Services Technician (CHEST) or the Associate Housekeeper (AH) certification, list them here.

Examples of How to List Cleaning on Resume

Example 1 - Skills Section

Skills:

• Cleaning and sanitization practices
• Efficient use of equipment (vacuum cleaners, mops, brooms)
• Knowledge of eco-friendly cleaning products
• Time management for efficient cleaning tasks

Example 2 - Work Experience Section

Janitorial Assistant, XYZ Corporation (2018-2020)

• Maintained a clean and safe work environment for employees
• Implemented new sanitation procedures to reduce the spread of illnesses
• Reduced time spent on cleaning tasks by 30% through the use of efficient cleaning techniques

Example 3 - Projects or Achievements Section

Clean and Restore Historic Building (2016)

• Led a team to clean and restore a historic building using eco-friendly cleaning products
• Implemented safe practices to protect the building's integrity during the restoration process
• Received recognition from local preservation society for exceptional work

What to Avoid While Listing Cleaning on Resume

• Overemphasis: Focus on relevant experiences and skills when listing cleaning on your resume. Overemphasizing this skill may make you appear underqualified or one-dimensional in other areas.
• Vague Descriptions: Be specific about the types of cleaning tasks you have performed and the results achieved. Instead of using general terms like "cleaning" or "housekeeping," focus on the methods, equipment, and products used.
• Inexact Quantification: Where possible, provide specific numbers or percentages to quantify your accomplishments related to cleaning. This can help employers understand the impact you made in a concrete way.
• Including Unrelated Cleaning Tasks: Avoid including tasks that may be perceived as irrelevant, such as personal household cleaning responsibilities. Instead, focus on professional experiences and relevant skills when listing cleaning on your resume.

How to List Janitorial Services on Resume

Listing your experience in Janitorial Services on your resume requires a careful balance between detail and conciseness. Here are some best practices to help you present this subcategory effectively:

1. Highlight Relevant Skills

Focus on the skills that are directly applicable to the position you're applying for. This could include cleaning techniques, equipment operation, waste management, or health and safety procedures.

Example:

• Proficient in using various cleaning solutions and equipment to ensure a spotless working environment
• Expertise in handling hazardous waste materials and maintaining compliance with local regulations
• Extensive experience in operating specialized machinery such as floor buffers, vacuum cleaners, and pressure washers

2. Quantify Your Achievements

Provide specific details about the areas you've managed or improvements you've made. Using numbers can help demonstrate the impact of your work.

Example:

• Successfully reduced cleaning time by 20% through the implementation of more efficient cleaning methods
• Consistently achieved a customer satisfaction rating of 95%, as measured by post-cleaning surveys
• Reduced water and chemical waste by 30% through the development and enforcement of an effective recycling program

3. Use Action Verbs

Start each bullet point with a strong action verb to make your resume more dynamic. Some examples include managed, maintained, improved, implemented, and coordinated.

Example:

• Managed a team of cleaners, ensuring tasks were completed efficiently and effectively
• Maintained high standards of cleanliness across multiple facilities by regularly inspecting work areas
• Improved the overall appearance and functionality of common areas through regular deep cleaning and organization

4. Tailor Your Resume for Each Position

Customize your Janitorial Services section for each job application to align with the specific requirements listed in the job description. This shows potential employers that you have the necessary skills for their position.

Example:

• If applying for a position in a hospital, focus on experience using disinfectants and adhering to strict infection control guidelines
• If applying for a position in an office building, emphasize your expertise in using specialized cleaning equipment and following office protocols

Example 1: Janitorial Services on Cleaning Resume

Janitorial Services Experience

X Company, City, State, Dates of Employment

• Proficiently maintained a spotless working environment through the use of various cleaning solutions and equipment
• Consistently achieved high customer satisfaction ratings by delivering quality work and addressing concerns promptly
• Managed a team of cleaners, providing training and feedback to ensure they met company standards

Example 2: Janitorial Services in Cleaning Context

Cleaning Technician, X Company, City, State, Dates of Employment

Responsibilities:

• Implemented and adhered to strict infection control protocols, ensuring a clean and safe working environment
• Operated specialized cleaning equipment such as floor buffers, vacuum cleaners, and pressure washers effectively and safely
• Reduced water and chemical waste by 30% through the development and enforcement of an effective recycling program

How to List Specialized Cleaning (e.g., Post-Construction, Hoarding) on Resume

Best Practices for Listing Specialized Cleaning on a Cleaning Resume:

• Highlight the Specialized Nature: Mention the specific type of cleaning you specialize in, such as post-construction or hoarding cleanup, to show your expertise in these areas.

  • Example: Specialization in post-construction cleaning, including debris removal, dust control, and final polishing.

• Quantify Your Achievements: Provide numerical data to illustrate the scale of your work or the impact of your services. This could include the size of the area cleaned, the number of tasks completed, or the time taken to complete a job.

  • Example: Successfully managed and executed the cleanup of a 3,000 sq ft construction site, completing the project within the allotted timeline and ensuring client satisfaction.

• Use Action Verbs: Use action verbs to describe your roles and responsibilities in a concise yet dynamic manner. This helps demonstrate your initiative and enthusiasm for the job.

  • Example: Utilized specialized cleaning equipment and techniques to effectively clean and sanitize hoarding spaces, ensuring both safety and efficiency.

• Emphasize Soft Skills: Include soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability to show that you can work well with clients and colleagues in challenging situations.

  • Example: Developed strong interpersonal skills while coordinating with construction crews, property managers, and homeowners to ensure a smooth cleanup process.

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job application by focusing on the specific requirements of the position and highlighting relevant experiences.

  • Example: For a post-construction cleaning position, focus on your experience with debris removal, dust control, and final polishing, while also mentioning your strong communication skills.

Example 1: Specialized Cleaning (e.g., Post-Construction, Hoarding) on Cleaning Resume

In the Professional Experience section of your resume, you might present it like this:

Post-Construction Cleaning Specialist - XYZ Cleaning Services, City, State

• Specialization in post-construction cleaning, including debris removal, dust control, and final polishing.
• Successfully managed and executed the cleanup of a 3,000 sq ft construction site, completing the project within the allotted timeline and ensuring client satisfaction.
• Utilized specialized cleaning equipment and techniques to effectively clean and sanitize hoarding spaces, ensuring both safety and efficiency.
• Developed strong interpersonal skills while coordinating with construction crews, property managers, and homeowners to ensure a smooth cleanup process.

Example 2: Specialized Cleaning (e.g., Post-Construction, Hoarding) in Cleaning Context

In the Skills section of your resume, you might present it like this:

Specialized Cleaning:

• Post-construction cleaning (debris removal, dust control, final polishing)
• Hoarding cleanup and organization

Technical Skills:

• Use of specialized cleaning equipment
• Safe handling of hazardous materials

Soft Skills:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Adaptability and flexibility in challenging situations

How to List Deep Cleaning on Resume

Best Practices for Listing 'Deep Cleaning' in a Cleaning Resume

• Highlight Specific Skills: Emphasize your expertise in deep cleaning by listing specific skills such as the use of heavy-duty cleaning equipment, knowledge of specialized cleaning solutions, and ability to handle thorough sanitization tasks.

  Example: "Utilized industrial-grade scrubbers and steam cleaners for deep cleaning of large commercial spaces, ensuring comprehensive removal of dirt and grime."

• Detail Cleaning Process: Explain the process you follow when performing a deep clean. This could include pre-cleaning preparation, application of specialized solutions, scrubbing, rinsing, and drying techniques.

  Example: "Followed a four-step deep cleaning process: pre-soaking areas with eco-friendly degreasers, manually scrubbing with stiff brushes, using steam to remove stubborn dirt, and drying with microfiber cloths."

• Mention Results: Quantify your achievements by detailing the extent of the deep cleaning tasks you've completed. This could include square footage cleaned, number of items sanitized, or specific areas that were thoroughly disinfected.

  Example: "Successfully deep cleaned a 5000-square-foot warehouse, removing all traces of oil and grease buildup."

• Emphasize Attention to Detail: Highlight your keen eye for detail by describing how you pay close attention to often overlooked areas during the deep cleaning process.

  Example: "Meticulously cleaned overlooked nooks, crannies, and high-touch points to ensure a thorough sanitization."

• Use Action Verbs: Begin each bullet point with action verbs to create a sense of urgency and show your initiative in performing deep cleaning tasks.

  Example: "Initiated the deep cleaning process by thoroughly vacuuming carpets, dusting all surfaces, and mopping floors."

Example 1: Deep Cleaning on Cleaning Resume

Deep Cleaning Specialist | [Your Name] | [City, State, Zip Code] | [Email Address] | [Phone Number]

*Utilized industrial-grade equipment for deep cleaning of large commercial spaces *Followed a four-step deep cleaning process: pre-soaking areas with eco-friendly degreasers, manually scrubbing with stiff brushes, using steam to remove stubborn dirt, and drying with microfiber cloths *Meticulously cleaned overlooked nooks, crannies, and high-touch points to ensure a thorough sanitization *Successfully deep cleaned a 5000-square-foot warehouse, removing all traces of oil and grease buildup

Example 2: Deep Cleaning in Cleaning Context

Cleaning Technician - Deep Clean Specialist | [Your Name] | [City, State, Zip Code] | [Email Address] | [Phone Number]

*Initiated the deep cleaning process by thoroughly vacuuming carpets, dusting all surfaces, and mopping floors using appropriate cleaning solutions *Sanitized high-touch points with disinfectant sprays to prevent the spread of germs *Cleaned and polished fixtures, such as sinks, toilets, and mirrors, for a streak-free shine *Organized and labeled items in storage areas for increased efficiency during regular cleaning sessions.

How to List Commercial Cleaning on Resume

Best Practices for Listing 'Commercial Cleaning' under the 'Cleaning' Subcategory:

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize the unique skills required for commercial cleaning, such as using heavy-duty cleaning equipment, working in large spaces, and maintaining a high level of cleanliness and sanitation.

  • Example: Operate industrial-strength cleaning machinery, including floor scrubbers, vacuum cleaners, and high-pressure washers, to maintain the cleanliness of commercial spaces.

• Detail Specific Tasks: List specific tasks you have performed in a commercial setting, such as cleaning large windows, removing graffiti, or deep-cleaning carpets.

  • Example: Cleaned and maintained high-rise building windows using specialized equipment to ensure clarity and safety.

• Emphasize Sanitation and Hygiene: Employers value cleanliness, but they also prioritize a strong focus on sanitation and hygiene, especially in commercial settings. Highlight your experience with this aspect of the job.

  • Example: Implemented sanitation procedures to prevent the spread of illnesses within commercial spaces, including regular disinfection of high-touch areas.

• Use Quantifiable Achievements: Where possible, use numbers or percentages to demonstrate your effectiveness in a commercial cleaning role.

  • Example: Reduced sick days by 25% due to improved sanitation practices and thorough cleaning procedures.

• Tailor Your Resume: Make sure that the focus on 'Commercial Cleaning' is tailored to the specific job you are applying for. Adjust your resume to highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the position.

Example 1: Commercial Cleaning on Cleaning Resume

In a cleaning resume, dedicate a section specifically to commercial cleaning, like this:

Commercial Cleaning Experience

• Worked as a commercial cleaner at XYZ Cleaning Services for two years.
• Maintained large commercial spaces, including office buildings and retail stores.
• Operated heavy-duty cleaning machinery to ensure the highest level of cleanliness.
• Implemented sanitation procedures to prevent the spread of illnesses within these spaces.

Example 2: Commercial Cleaning in Cleaning Context

In a more general cleaning resume, you can include your commercial experience under a broader 'Cleaning' section, like this:

Cleaning Experience

• Worked as a cleaner at XYZ Services for three years, gaining experience in residential and commercial settings.
  • In the commercial setting, I maintained large spaces and used heavy-duty cleaning machinery to ensure the highest level of cleanliness.
  • I also implemented sanitation procedures to prevent the spread of illnesses within these spaces.

How to List Residential Cleaning on Resume

Best Practices for Listing Residential Cleaning Subcategory

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Mention specific cleaning techniques or equipment relevant to residential cleaning, such as using eco-friendly products, understanding the proper use of vacuum cleaners, and proficiency in dusting delicate items.

  • Example: "Mastered a range of cleaning techniques for various surfaces, including wood, tile, and upholstery, while prioritizing the use of eco-friendly cleaning solutions."

• Quantify Achievements: When possible, include numbers or percentages to demonstrate the impact of your work. For instance, specify how many square feet you have cleaned per day or how much waste was diverted from landfill through recycling and composting efforts.

  • Example: "Achieved a daily cleaning rate of 2,500 sq ft while maintaining an average of 80% waste reduction through recycling and composting initiatives."

• Detail Specializations: If you have experience in specific areas within residential cleaning, such as deep cleaning or organizational services, be sure to highlight these specialties.

  • Example: "Provided specialized deep-cleaning services for homes with pets, including removal of pet hair and odors from carpets and upholstery."

• Emphasize Customer Service: Residential cleaning involves interacting with clients on a regular basis. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.

  • Example: "Developed strong relationships with clients through exceptional communication skills, ensuring that each home is cleaned to their unique specifications."

• Use Action Verbs: Begin each bullet point with an action verb to make your resume engaging and easy to read. Use verbs like 'managed', 'maintained', 'cleaned', 'organized', 'improved'.

  • Example: "Managed a team of cleaners, ensuring that all cleaning tasks were completed efficiently and to the highest standard."

Example 1: Residential Cleaning on Cleaning Resume

• Responsible for providing residential cleaning services to a variety of clients, including deep-cleaning, dusting, vacuuming, and organizing.
• Consistently achieved a daily cleaning rate of 2,500 sq ft while maintaining an average of 80% waste reduction through recycling and composting initiatives.
• Developed strong relationships with clients by effectively communicating their unique cleaning requirements and ensuring each home was cleaned to their satisfaction.
• Provided specialized deep-cleaning services for homes with pets, including removal of pet hair and odors from carpets and upholstery.

Example 2: Residential Cleaning in Cleaning Context

• Managed a team of cleaners responsible for providing residential cleaning services to a client base of over 50 households.
• Implemented eco-friendly cleaning practices, reducing the environmental impact of our cleaning operations by 30%.
• Improved operational efficiency by optimizing scheduling and task assignments, resulting in increased client satisfaction and reduced labor costs.
• Handled client inquiries and complaints professionally, maintaining a 98% customer retention rate over a period of two years.