In Singapore, we pride ourselves on our cleanliness. Our streets are spotless, our public spaces gleam, and our buildings shine. But behind this pristine facade lies a quiet struggle, a hidden “price war” that’s cleaning out the very people who keep our Lion City clean – our dedicated cleaners.
It’s a common misconception that cleaning is a simple, non-essential task. “Anyone can clean,” some might think, perhaps while admiring their reflection in a freshly polished floor (which didn’t polish itself). This leads to a rather perplexing tendency to low-ball prices and cut costs when it comes to engaging cleaning services, whether for a sprawling office building or a cosy home. Because, clearly, dirt and grime magically disappear on their own, right? Or perhaps they just need a stern talking-to.
But is cleaning truly non-essential? Imagine a day without cleaners. Offices would quickly become unhygienic biohazards, public restrooms would transform into scenes from a horror movie, and our homes, well, let’s just say they wouldn’t be the sanctuaries they are. Cleaning is not just about aesthetics; it’s fundamental to public health, safety, and our overall quality of life. It’s a demanding job, often involving strenuous physical labor, exposure to chemicals (because a clean space doesn’t happen with just good vibes), and working unsociable hours. All this, while some folks believe sparkling surfaces are a gift from the fairy godmother of hygiene, rather than the result of hard, honest physical strainers work.
“A clean space doesn’t happen with just good vibes” (One Heart Cleaning, 2025)
So, here’s a question for you: How much do you really think a cleaner in Singapore earns in a month?
Go on, take a guess. Prepare yourselves, because the answer might just make your sustainably-sourced, artisanal coffee taste a little less sweet. Many might be surprised by the reality. While the work is vital, the wages have historically been challenging. This is precisely why Singapore, being the forward-thinking nation it is, introduced the Progressive Wage Model (PWM) for the cleaning sector. The PWM aims to uplift the wages of our local cleaners by linking wage increments to skills upgrading and productivity improvements, ensuring they receive fair and sustainable pay. It’s almost like a superhero cape for their paychecks, ensuring they get more than just a pat on the back for battling the job no one often wants to do.
To learn more about the Progressive Wage Model for the cleaning sector and understand the minimum wage requirements for various cleaning job roles, you can visit the official Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website: https://www.mom.gov.sg/employment-practices/progressive-wage-model/cleaning-sector
This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about dignity. Our cleaners are often the unsung heroes, working diligently behind the scenes to maintain the environments we live and work in. They face physical strain, the mental fatigue of repetitive tasks, and sometimes, the emotional toll of being undervalued. The “pain” of a cleaner isn’t just aching muscles; it’s the feeling that their hard work is not adequately recognized or compensated. It’s the quiet sigh when another client tries to haggle over a few dollars, forgetting that those few dollars might mean a better meal or a slightly less stressful month for someone who literally cleans up after us.
To our valued clients, both commercial and residential: When you seek professional cleaning services, remember the human element behind the spotless results. Opting for the lowest possible bid often means compromising on fair wages, proper training, and the well-being of the cleaners themselves. A sustainable cleaning industry is one where cleaners are paid fairly, have opportunities for skill development, and are treated with respect. So, before you hit ‘send’ on that ridiculously low tender, or award the lowest price service vendor, maybe consider if you’d work for that price. Just a thought.
By choosing service providers who adhere to the PWM and prioritize the welfare of their cleaning staff, you’re not just buying a service; you’re investing in a more equitable and dignified workforce for Singapore. Let’s move beyond the price war and collectively contribute to a future where every cleaner is valued for their essential contribution to our society. After all, a clean city is a happy city, and a happy city starts with happy, well-compensated cleaners!
p/s One Heart Cleaning Pte Ltd is proud to be recognized with the Progressive Wage (PW) Mark accreditation, signifying our commitment to paying progressive wages to our lower-wage workers and enabling consumers and corporate buyers to easily identify and support such firms.
