6 Things that will never let you underestimate cleaners in society

Ziggy Dust: The dancing street cleaner from Poland

Growing up in Africa, what I realized earlier in life is that because of poverty, parents always encouraged children to study very hard to avoid being a cleaner or a driver. 

They also pray so that their sons or daughters may marry a highly learned person in society, perhaps a doctor, because that will give them honor and also bring some money home.

In Africa, society sees those in the cleaning and driving professions as uneducated or school dropouts, and many times, I see the problems a woman in love with a driver or a cleaner faces. Surprisingly, when I arrived in Europe decades ago, I noticed that some people looked down on those who worked as cleaners as well, like in Africa.

What is actually wrong with being a cleaner? If everyone wants to be in front, who will be behind to help the blind? And if everyone wants to be a doctor, engineer, pilot, captain, etc., who will be the cleaner to clean the offices of the pilot, engineer, etc., for them to enjoy a happy, healthy life?

As a matter of fact, I think people who look down on cleaners are not clean themselves. If one considers the role of cleaners in society, they will give them every respect they deserve equally, like a scientist or a pilot. Many hate to clean because it’s a tough job. 

This is the reason many can’t clean, but then why do they look down on cleaners when they are doing the job they wouldn’t do?

I live in Belgium, a country many hate to clean; thus, foreigners have taken over the cleaning industry, yet they complain that foreigners have taken their jobs from them. 

There are work agencies that usually send cleaners to do domestic and office cleanings. Surprisingly, some people discriminated against those cleaning their houses, demanding white cleaners, and the media hit back.

If someone is cleaner, doesn't that mean that the person is stupid or lacks intelligence? Here are:

SIX FACTS THAT WILL CHANGE THE WAY MANY VIEW CLEANERS IN SOCIETY

1. Cleanliness is next to godliness because being clean is a sign of spiritual purity or goodness.

Cleanliness has always been associated with spiritual discipline across cultures and religions. A clean environment reflects a clean mind, one that values order, respect, and inner peace.

When people maintain cleanliness, they demonstrate responsibility, self‑respect, and consideration for others.

Cleaners help uphold this spiritual and moral standard for society, ensuring that homes, offices, hospitals, and public spaces remain places where people can thrive emotionally and spiritually.

2. A clean environment is essential for healthy living.

Health begins with hygiene. Cleaners play a crucial role in preventing diseases by ensuring that living and working spaces are free from dirt, germs, and harmful bacteria.

Without their work, people would be exposed to infections, respiratory problems, and environmental hazards. Cleaners protect public health in ways many people take for granted; they are frontline workers who make healthy living possible for everyone.

3. Cleaning the environment prevents an epidemic.

History has shown that epidemics often begin in places where hygiene is neglected. Dirty surroundings allow viruses, bacteria, and pests to multiply rapidly.

Cleaners help break this chain by disinfecting surfaces, removing waste, and maintaining sanitary conditions. Their work is a silent shield that prevents outbreaks in schools, hospitals, markets, and communities. Without cleaners, society would be far more vulnerable to deadly epidemics.

4. People litter on roads and public places even though there are dustbins. Imagine what our society would look like without cleaning.

Human behavior is often careless; people throw trash on streets, parks, beaches, and public transport even when bins are available. Cleaners step in to correct this negligence, restoring order and beauty to public spaces.

Without them, cities would drown in filth, foul smells, pests, and pollution. Cleaners maintain the dignity of our environment, ensuring that public spaces remain usable, safe, and pleasant for everyone.

5. Without cleaning, there will be a flood because of the blockage of the drainage system.

Blocked drains are one of the leading causes of urban flooding. When garbage accumulates in gutters and drainage channels, water cannot flow freely, leading to floods that damage homes, vehicles, and infrastructure.

Cleaners prevent this disaster by clearing drains, removing debris, and ensuring water systems function properly. Their work protects entire communities from avoidable destruction.

6. We shall be facing the threat of climate change and global warming.

Environmental cleanliness is directly connected to climate stability. Waste accumulation increases greenhouse gases, pollutes water bodies, and destroys ecosystems.

Cleaners help reduce environmental stress by managing waste responsibly and keeping natural and urban spaces clean. Their work supports recycling, reduces pollution, and contributes to a healthier planet. In the fight against climate change, cleaners are unsung environmental warriors.