How To Be A Good Janitor [VIDEO]

Behind every clean, safe, and welcoming space lies the often-overlooked dedication of janitors, whose work is essential to our daily lives.

How to Excel as a Janitor

Janitors are the unsung heroes of our workplaces, schools, and public spaces, ensuring these environments stay clean, functional, and welcoming.

Their hard work fosters healthier spaces and leaves a lasting, positive impression on everyone who visits or works there.

Yet, this vital role often comes with significant physical and emotional demands, requiring determination and adaptability.

To thrive in this profession, janitors must develop essential skills, embrace efficient methods, and prioritize safety and self-care to achieve both professional and personal fulfillment.

 

Developing Essential Skills

Structured Training Programs

Getting the right training is key to boosting your efficiency and cleaning techniques.

Look for programs that focus on improving your skills in areas like:

• Task analysis: Break down each task into smaller, manageable steps.
• Hierarchical prompts: Use clear, step-by-step instructions to simplify your workflow.

Mastering Core Cleaning Techniques

Mastering the basics of cleaning goes beyond knowing which tools to use.

Focus on:

• Proper use of cleaning tools: Familiarize yourself with the equipment to get the best results.
• Choosing the right cleaning agents: Learn which products work best on different surfaces.
• Attention to detail: A sharp eye for detail ensures you consistently deliver high-quality results.

Time Management

Effective time management is crucial for staying on top of your daily tasks.

Here’s how to prioritize:

• Allocate time wisely: Tackle more complex or urgent tasks first.
• Establish a routine: Set a consistent schedule for recurring duties, helping you stay organized.

Adaptability

In the ever-changing world of janitorial work, adaptability is key.

Be ready to:

• Adjust techniques: Tailor your approach to different spaces and surfaces.
• Solve problems on the fly: When challenges arise, use your problem-solving skills to find quick solutions.

 

Understanding the Work Environment

Adapting to Organizational Dynamics

Thriving in any workplace starts with understanding how things operate.

Familiarize yourself with your organization’s cleaning policies and standards to meet expectations consistently.

Also, prioritize building strong relationships with your teammates and supervisors—good communication can make all the difference.

Managing Physical Demands

Janitorial work can be physically intense, but the right techniques can help protect your body. Always:

• Lift with care: Bend at your knees, not your back, to prevent injuries.
• Alternate tasks: Switch hands or positions when scrubbing to avoid fatigue.
  Additionally, make rest breaks a regular part of your routine to recover and stay energized during demanding shifts.

Prioritizing Ergonomics

Investing in ergonomic tools isn’t just smart—it’s essential for long-term comfort.

Choose lightweight mops or adjustable vacuum handles that fit your height.

Organize your workspace thoughtfully to reduce repetitive motions and awkward movements that can lead to strain.

Responding to Feedback

Feedback is a chance to grow, not a setback.

Be open to suggestions from your supervisors and peers, and adjust your methods as needed to align with their expectations.

A positive attitude toward feedback shows professionalism and adaptability.

Navigating Common Challenges

Every job has its hurdles, and janitorial work is no exception.

Tackle common challenges by:

• Finding solutions: Develop strategies to manage time constraints or limited resources efficiently.
• Keeping composure: Stay calm and professional when responding to complaints or last-minute requests. Your ability to handle challenges gracefully reflects your expertise and reliability.

 

Prioritizing Safety and Health

Ergonomic Practices to Prevent Injuries

Protecting your body while working starts with using the right tools.

Opt for equipment with padded grips and adjustable handles to reduce strain on your hands and back.

Rotate repetitive tasks throughout your shift to avoid overuse injuries, and always maintain good posture—whether you’re lifting something heavy or scrubbing surfaces. Small adjustments like these can make a big difference in staying injury-free.

Safe Handling of Cleaning Chemicals

Cleaning products are essential tools, but handling them safely is just as important.

Always read the labels and follow the instructions carefully.

Equip yourself with PPE like gloves or masks when working with strong chemicals, and store all products securely to prevent accidents like spills or unintentional exposure.

Maintaining a Safe Work Environment

A clean workspace is a safe workspace. Use clear signage, like "wet floor" markers, to prevent slips and falls.

Keep tools and supplies neatly organized to avoid trip hazards, and make a habit of inspecting your equipment regularly for wear or malfunctions that could cause accidents.

Promoting Personal Health

Your health is just as important as your work.

Take short, regular breaks to recharge and prevent overexertion, especially during physically demanding tasks.

Stay hydrated, dress for the weather, and practice good hygiene by washing your hands after handling chemicals or waste.

These small habits can go a long way in maintaining your overall well-being.

Emphasizing Environmentally Friendly Practices

Taking care of the environment is part of the job, too.

Whenever possible, choose eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning products that are safer for both you and the planet.

Follow proper waste disposal guidelines to ensure you’re minimizing environmental impact while keeping spaces clean and safe.

 

Enhancing Social and Psychological Well-being

Building Self-Regulation Skills

Staying organized and consistent can make your workday feel more manageable.

Create simple routines that help you stay on track and set realistic goals to boost focus and performance.

When stress creeps in, try techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness to help you stay calm and grounded.

Fostering Positive Relationships

Good relationships at work can make a big difference in how you feel about your job.

Communicate openly and respectfully with your colleagues and supervisors, and don’t shy away from seeking constructive feedback—it’s a great way to grow both personally and professionally.

If your workplace offers team-building activities, join in; they’re a great opportunity to connect with others.

Accessing Support Systems

Sometimes, we all need a little extra help.

Take advantage of employee assistance programs (EAPs) if you’re dealing with personal or mental health challenges.

Joining professional networks or support groups for janitorial staff can also provide a sense of community, allowing you to share experiences, tips, and encouragement with others in your field.

Improving Job Satisfaction

Celebrate your successes, even the small ones—they’re all important. Remind yourself of the positive impact you’re making by creating clean, safe spaces for others.

When you’re ready, look into opportunities for growth, like additional training or certifications, to keep your work engaging and rewarding.

Maintaining a Balanced Outlook

Work-life balance is essential to staying motivated and avoiding burnout.

Make time for personal activities, hobbies, or just relaxing with loved ones.

Recharging your energy helps you stay positive and focused. Above all, remember the value of your work—you play an important role in maintaining environments that others rely on every day.

 

Implementing Efficient Work Practices

Regular Performance Monitoring

Staying on top of your work starts with regular check-ins. Take time to review your tasks and assess how well they’re being completed.

A simple checklist can help ensure nothing gets overlooked.

Don’t forget to incorporate feedback from your supervisor—it’s a valuable tool for fine-tuning your approach and improving outcomes.

Optimizing Task Management

Smart planning can save both time and energy.

Try grouping similar tasks, like dusting all surfaces before moving on to vacuuming.

Using time-saving tools, like multipurpose cleaning agents, can streamline your work further.

Always prioritize high-traffic areas and critical spaces to ensure they’re cleaned thoroughly and efficiently.

Effective Staffing and Collaboration

Teamwork plays a huge role in getting things done efficiently.

Work with your teammates to evenly distribute tasks, and keep lines of communication open when it comes to schedules and assignments.

Offering a helping hand when someone needs it not only improves workflow but fosters a positive work environment.

Streamlining Cleaning Processes

Efficiency is all about organization.

Use color-coded tools, like separate mops for bathrooms and kitchens, to prevent cross-contamination.

Plan your route through each space to avoid unnecessary backtracking. Keeping your supplies well-stocked and neatly organized will also save you time and reduce frustration.

Leveraging Technology

Make the most of technology to simplify your work.

Scheduling apps or task management software can help you stay on track, while advanced cleaning tools like automated scrubbers can handle large areas more quickly and effectively.

Track your supply usage to avoid running out of essentials and optimize your ordering process.

By focusing on efficiency and collaboration, you can uphold high cleaning standards while reducing stress and lightening your workload.

 

References

1. Test, D. W., Grossi, T., & Keul, P. (1988). A Functional Analysis of the Acquisition and Maintenance of Janitorial Skills in a Competitive Work Setting. Journal of the Association for Persons with Severe Handicaps, 13(1), 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1177/154079698801300101
2. Lee, W., Lin, J.-H., Howard, N., & Bao, S. (2022). Field Assessment of Physiological Responses, Trunk Posture, and Work Pace among Commercial Building Janitors. Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting/Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society ... Annual Meeting, 66(1), 1657–1658. https://doi.org/10.1177/1071181322661263
3. Eka Yanuarti, Agita Misriani, Reka Amelia Lestari, & Fadila Fadila. (2023). Social Protection Of Rejang Lebong City Cleaning Officers in Improving Religious Attitude and Self Regulation. FOKUS Jurnal Kajian Keislaman Dan Kemasyarakatan, 8(1), 13–13. https://doi.org/10.29240/jf.v8i1.6568
4. Erratum. (1994). Facilities, 12(10), 22–26. https://doi.org/10.1108/02632779410067835

 

Takeaway

Excelling as a janitor means balancing technical expertise, physical stamina, and emotional strength.

By embracing structured training, ergonomic techniques, and a strong focus on safety, janitors can deliver high-quality results while prioritizing their well-being.

Positive relationships and effective self-management create a supportive and fulfilling work environment.

With teamwork and efficiency, they can tackle daily tasks with ease, keeping spaces clean and safe.

By following these practices, janitors not only enhance their performance but also take well-deserved pride in their essential contributions.

Vanguard Cleaning Systems^® of the Ozarks' franchise-owned custodial service provider business cleans more than 8M sq. ft. weekly, maintaining an industry topping 95+% of its customer base, year-over-year, and boasting more than 60 5-star Google reviews.

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