Apply for Cleaner Positions in Cape Town: Pay, Benefits, and Tips

The Cleaner Career in Cape Town

Cape Town is a city that can offer job opportunities for domestic workers and cleaners with an average wage of R40 per hour — well above the national average!

In addition to being a popular tourist destination, the city has residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, and an active economy.

What is the job like?

Working as a cleaner in Cape Town involves a variety of tasks, depending on the location and employer.

Common responsibilities include general cleaning of homes, offices, or commercial establishments, washing and ironing clothes, preparing meals, and caring for children or the elderly.

Working hours can vary, with part-time and full-time options available. Some positions offer accommodation and meals, especially in private residences.

Cape Town offers a wide range of work opportunities for women who want to work as cleaners.

Main Job Opportunities

Private residences are one of the most common sources of employment for cleaners in Cape Town. These jobs generally involve tasks such as general house cleaning, and the neighborhoods that hire the most are Sea Point, Constantia, Claremont, Grassy Park, and Retreat.

Hotels and commercial establishments offer opportunities for cleaners in roles such as room housekeeping, cleaning common areas, and laundry services.

These jobs often require prior experience and attention to detail. Neighborhoods such as City Bowl, Waterfront, and Green Point are home to many of these businesses.

Companies and offices in areas like Century City, Claremont, and Bellville hire cleaners to maintain cleanliness and organization in the workplace.

Industrial sectors and warehouses in areas like Joostenberg Vlakte and Montague Gardens offer cleaner positions with varied shifts.

Cape Town International Airport and public transport areas hire cleaners to ensure passenger cleanliness and safety. Tasks include cleaning terminals, restrooms, and outdoor spaces.

Some positions offer on-site accommodation and meals, especially in more remote areas. Specialized agencies hire cleaners for services in various locations, providing training and benefits.

Some women choose to offer cleaning services independently, negotiating directly with clients.

The average salary for cleaners in Cape Town ranges between R6,200 and R7,283 per month, depending on experience and the type of service. Some positions offer higher wages, especially in upscale areas or specialized institutions.

Who can work?

While prior experience is valued, many jobs are open to candidates without formal experience.

Key requirements include good communication and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, reliability, the ability to follow instructions, and the ability to work independently.

Some jobs may require valid identification and, in specific cases, proof of residence. And it is all about trust.

How to apply

To apply for cleaner positions in Cape Town:

• Search for jobs: Use employment websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, Adzuna, and Jooble to find updated opportunities.
• Prepare your CV: Highlight your previous experiences, skills, and references. Even without formal experience, mention any cleaning tasks you have performed before.
• Submit your application: Apply directly through job websites or contact specialized recruitment agencies.
• Prepare for interviews: Be punctual, dress appropriately, and be ready to answer questions about your experience and skills.

Tips for finding jobs

• Use keywords: When searching, use terms like “cleaner,” “housekeeper,” “general worker,” and “domestic worker.”
• Filter by location: Focus on areas near you, such as Bloubergstrand, Retreat, and Grassy Park, where demand for cleaners is higher.
• Register on job sites: Create alerts to receive notifications of new vacancies.
• Networking: Talk to people you know who might refer you or recommend you to employers.

Main Challenges of a Cleaner Career

While cleaning work offers opportunities, it also presents challenges, such as long working hours and physically demanding tasks.

In some areas, there may be safety concerns, especially when working night shifts. Some positions are temporary or short-term contracts, which can affect job security.

When working in private homes, benefits may be limited compared to company jobs, often restricted to salary only.

Opportunities in other cities?

Johannesburg also offers good job opportunities for cleaners in both homes and businesses — check how to apply.

Written by

Gabriel Gonçalves