Cleaning Interview Questions & Example Answers
1. Why do you want to work as a cleaner?
I take pride in keeping things clean and organised. I enjoy practical work and being part of a team that keeps homes, workplaces, or public areas safe and hygienic.
2. What cleaning experience do you have?
I’ve worked in schools and offices doing vacuuming, dusting, mopping, toilets, bins, and using different cleaning products and equipment safely.
3. Tell me about a time you handled a cleaning challenge. (STAR Method Example)
Situation:
At a previous job, I was asked to clean a kitchen that hadn’t been touched in weeks.
Task:
I had to deep clean all surfaces and remove tough stains before a safety inspection.
Action:
I soaked problem areas with degreaser, used appropriate PPE, and followed COSHH guidance for strong products.
Result:
The kitchen passed inspection and the supervisor praised the effort and attention to detail.
4. How do you handle repetitive work?
I stay focused, take pride in doing a thorough job, and keep track of my routine to make sure I don’t miss anything important.
5. What would you do if you found something valuable while cleaning?
I would not touch it and report it to my supervisor immediately, following the company’s lost property policy.
6. How do you ensure health and safety while cleaning?
I use warning signs, follow COSHH rules, wear PPE, and never mix chemicals. I also report any hazards straight away.
7. Tell me about a time you worked well as part of a team. (STAR Method Example)
Situation:
We had to prepare a large venue for an early morning event with limited time.
Task:
Our team needed to finish vacuuming, dusting, and arranging chairs by 7 AM.
Action:
I suggested splitting into zones and worked quickly with another cleaner to finish our area. We supported each other and stayed on schedule.
Result:
The venue was ready on time and the manager thanked us all for excellent teamwork.
8. How do you prioritise cleaning tasks when time is limited?
I start with the most visible and high-traffic areas, then toilets or kitchens, followed by less urgent spaces — all while keeping safety first.
9. How do you deal with difficult smells or messy areas?
I use appropriate products for odour and disinfecting, wear PPE, and make sure the space is safe and fully clean before I move on.
10. What would you do if you noticed equipment was broken?
I’d stop using it immediately and report it to my supervisor or maintenance team, making sure it didn’t pose a risk to others.
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