Shifts
Offices and many sites are cleaned before or after the working day, so early mornings and evenings are common. Saying exactly which times you can work is one of the best ways to stand out.
Chemical safety
Cleaning chemicals can be hazardous. The law requires employers to control substances hazardous to health, which includes giving you information and training on using them safely (HSE: COSHH).
Checks
Some sites, such as schools and hospitals, may ask for a criminal record check, which the employer arranges (DBS in England and Wales, PVG in Scotland, AccessNI in Northern Ireland).
Applying
- You apply on the employer's own website, so they decide what to ask for - including whether they want a CV
- Say which times and areas you can work
- If the employer you apply to uses BeCareers screening, a short screening conversation lets you show what a CV can't
Questions people ask
Do I need experience to get a cleaning job?
Not always. Many cleaning jobs train new starters, including on using cleaning chemicals safely.
Will I need a criminal record check?
Some sites, such as schools and hospitals, may ask for one. The employer arranges it.
Sources
Last reviewed 20 October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.
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