What’s Another Name for an Office Cleaner?
They are often called an ‘office cleaner,’ and people usually ask for an alternative name for someone who cleans office areas.
In fact, we find that a simple name for an office cleaner is the best way to address them, as everyone can understand, and it describes what it says on the tin.
However, you may encounter other names for such cleaners, particularly when they are involved in tasks beyond basic cleaning at the commercial property.
Whichever name you use, it’s best to stick with it so that everybody is clear going forward.
So, whether that’s in the job description or the name that everyone mentions when talking about this critical role part at an office block, here are a few alternative names for office cleaners that you may come across:
1. A Janitor
This is actually an American phrase that refers to a cleaner, often at commercial buildings, who undertakes additional tasks such as replenishing hygiene stock and focusing on toilet and kitchen areas.
In addition, removing rubbish and litter, carrying out security duties, and organising or carrying out maintenance and repair tasks, similar to a housekeeper.
2. A Housekeeper
This is primarily referred to as a domestic property, of course, with names such as ‘Cleaning Maid’. But you can find this referred to within an office building, including tasks to generally make the property operate for everyone, not just the office cleaning.
For example, arranging post and mail, handling inquiries and visitors, coordinating tradespeople and supply deliveries, and maintaining property records or logs.
3. A Caretaker
This is more common for office blocks, which people can relate to and include the broader management of that particular building.
Other variations of these include Custodians and an Office Maintenance Manager or Officer.
These will again tend to include other jobs at the office building, such as handling day-to-day inquiries from people and visitors, and other contracts and services. If an office cleaner is also involved in these tasks, this new title may appear to have little to do with cleaning at first glance.
4. A Facilities Manager
This is often for larger properties, where the remit of duties is much broader than basic cleaning.
This forms what is known as ‘soft services’ and involves other tasks such as window cleaning, general inspections, any needed maintenance and repairs, either directly or through arranging contractors.
What’s in an Office Cleaner Name
When looking at the name of the cleaner at an office block or commercial building, it’s essential to understand precisely what duties they perform.
If these are just basic cleaning, simply referencing an office cleaner will be sufficient.
However, if there are other duties, such as broader day-to-day issues at the property and the organisation of services, then these other titles can be considered.
Whichever name or title is eventually used, this needs to be clearly communicated to everyone. Ensure there is a complete job description, including specific tasks and timeframes for everything the office cleaner will carry out.