No Cleaning Experience? What to Know Before Applying for Cleaner Jobs in Singapore

You may have more options than you think.

Cleaning jobs are available across different workplaces, and the requirements can vary from one employer to another.

Some positions may provide training, while others may look for workers with specific experience or skills.

Here is what you should know before applying.

Do You Need Previous Cleaning Experience?

Not necessarily.

The requirements depend on the employer and the type of cleaning job.

For entry-level positions, employers may focus more on whether you are reliable, physically able to perform the work and willing to learn.

Singapore's cleaning sector also has formal training requirements under the Progressive Wage Model for covered Singapore citizen and permanent resident cleaners. On-the-job training can count toward certain in-house training requirements.

This means previous cleaning experience is not the only factor employers may consider.

What Types of Cleaning Jobs Can You Look At?

There are several areas to explore.

Hospital Cleaning

You may clean hospital wards, common areas, washrooms and other healthcare facilities.

Healthcare cleaning can involve specific hygiene and cleaning procedures.

Office Cleaning

Office cleaners may clean:

• Desks and shared areas
• Floors
• Pantries
• Washrooms
• Windows
• Rubbish bins

This can be suitable for people who prefer an indoor workplace.

Hotel Housekeeping

Hotel housekeeping usually involves cleaning guest rooms and bathrooms, changing linens and replenishing supplies.

The work can be more fast-paced depending on the hotel and daily workload.

Commercial Cleaning

Commercial cleaners may work in malls, buildings and other public spaces.

The job may involve cleaning floors, washrooms and common areas, as well as collecting rubbish.

What Skills Do You Actually Need?

You don't necessarily need advanced qualifications to start looking at entry-level cleaning positions.

However, you should be prepared to:

Follow instructions

Cleaning procedures need to be followed correctly.

Work on your feet

Cleaning can involve standing and walking for extended periods.

Handle repetitive tasks

Sweeping, mopping, wiping and other cleaning activities may be repeated throughout the shift.

Work reliably

Punctuality and attendance are important in jobs that depend on scheduled cleaning.

Learn workplace procedures

Different workplaces may have different safety and hygiene requirements.

Is Cleaning Work Physically Demanding?

It can be.

Depending on the job, you may need to walk, stand, bend, push cleaning equipment and perform repetitive movements.

Healthcare and commercial cleaning can also involve cleaning larger areas or working during scheduled shifts.

Before applying, make sure the physical requirements match what you are comfortable doing.

How Much Can Cleaners Earn?

The Progressive Wage Model sets minimum basic wage requirements for covered cleaning jobs.

For 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027, Group 1 General/Indoor Cleaners have a minimum basic wage of S$2,080 per month, while Healthcare, Outdoor and Restroom Cleaners have a minimum of S$2,495 for covered full-time outsourced roles working 35–44 hours per week.

Actual job offers can be different depending on the employer, working hours, job level and employment arrangement.

What Should You Check Before Applying?

Don't look at salary alone.

Check:

• Exact job location
• Working hours
• Number of working days
• Shift requirements
• Main cleaning duties
• Training provided
• Basic salary
• Overtime or allowances
• Leave and other employment terms

These details can make two cleaning jobs with similar advertised salaries very different.

Could a Cleaning Job Be Right for You?

A cleaning job may be worth considering if you:

• Are comfortable with physical work
• Prefer practical, hands-on tasks
• Can follow workplace procedures
• Are reliable and punctual
• Are willing to learn

You don't need to decide which cleaning job is perfect immediately.

Start by comparing the requirements, schedule and daily duties of different positions.

Final Thought

No previous cleaning experience does not automatically rule you out.

There are different types of cleaning jobs in Singapore, and the requirements vary between employers and workplaces.

If you are considering a cleaner job, focus on finding a position where the working hours, duties and requirements match what you can realistically handle.