Why consider cleaning work in Germany?

Germany offers stability, labor rights, and a high demand for house cleaning professionals. House cleaning jobs can serve as an entry point into the German employment market, especially for newcomers seeking reliable income and long-term work opportunities.

Besides a strong market, this type of work allows flexible hours, with options for part-time, full-time contracts, or working independently in homes and offices.

Even with language as a barrier, you don’t need fluent German to start. Many employers prioritize punctuality, responsibility, and previous experience.

The cleaning sector, especially domestic or corporate, is regulated, with collective agreements ensuring minimum wages, night shift premiums, and protection against labor exploitation.

How much does a cleaner earn in Germany?

Salaries vary by region, experience, and contract type. Below are common pay ranges and factors that influence earnings:

Salary table (gross values):

Job Type	Hourly Wage	Monthly Salary (~40h/week)
Domestic cleaning (freelance)	€10 to €15	Varies
Corporate contract (Reinigungskraft)	€12 to €17	€2,400 to €3,000
Specialized cleaning (facades/windows)	€17.65+	€3,000+
National average (full time)	–	€2,183

One-time cleanings may pay more per hour but lack stability. These jobs typically don’t include legal benefits or paid leave, limiting long-term financial security.

Formal contracts, on the other hand, include paid vacation, medical leave, and mandatory contributions to social security, providing workers with essential protections and peace of mind.

Night or weekend work usually qualifies for additional pay, making these shifts more attractive financially for those open to a varied schedule and extended hours.

Types of contracts and work models

There are three main formats for cleaning jobs in Germany: fixed contracts, minijobs, and freelance work. See their differences below.

• German-style fixed contract (Teilzeit or Vollzeit): registered employment with benefits, hourly pay, paid leave, insurance, and pension contributions.
• Minijob: contract capped at €538/month, with minimal taxes; ideal for extra income.
• Freelancer/self-employed: you manage your own client base, set prices and days, but must handle taxes and paperwork.

Each model has pros and cons. For newcomers, a minijob may be the most accessible and simple entry point.

Regular contracts guarantee labor protection but require complete registration in Germany (including a bank account and health insurance).

What to expect from the work routine

House cleaning tasks vary by location but include floor cleaning, bathrooms, kitchens, bed linen changes, and proper waste disposal.

Schedules are usually flexible. Employers offer morning, afternoon, or part-time shifts. Hotels tend to have more structured routines.

In freelance domestic cleaning, it’s common to visit multiple homes per week, with a set task list and commute between locations.

Cleaning companies supply materials and uniforms; in private homes, this is arranged with the client and can vary.

Benefits and legal protection

Working formally provides access to various legal rights and advantages. Get to know the main benefits of formal work in Germany:

• Paid vacation (usually 24 to 30 days/year).
• Public health insurance and pension contributions.
• Protection against dismissal without cause (after 6 months).
• Bonus pay for overtime or night shifts.

These rights aren’t guaranteed in informal jobs. So even if income is lower, formal work is more secure and reliable.

Collective labor agreements (Tarifvertrag) in the sector set minimum wages per task type. This ensures mandatory baselines even in basic roles.

How to Prepare and Apply for House cleaning Jobs in Germany

Applying for a house cleaning job in Germany requires more than just finding listings—you need preparation, clarity on goals, and a strong first impression.

Below are four key steps to help you navigate the application process and increase your chances of getting hired successfully.

Finding the Right Job Listings

Start by choosing a reliable job platform—StepStone is among the most trusted sources for cleaning and domestic roles across Germany.

Use filters to narrow your search by city, contract type, schedule, and level of experience. Target postings that clearly state requirements and pay range.

Set up alerts to receive daily or weekly updates. This keeps you ahead of competition and ensures you don’t miss fresh opportunities near your location.

Choosing the Right Job for You

Before applying, assess your availability, physical stamina, and location. These factors help determine whether part-time, full-time, or freelance suits you best.

Check whether the job offers paid vacation, health insurance, or bonuses for weekend shifts—these are signs of a fair and legal contract.

Read reviews of the company if available. This helps identify respectful employers and filter out roles with poor working conditions or unclear expectations.

Building Your Resume and Skill Profile

A simple, clear resume is key. Include your contact details, past work experience, language skills, and availability for shifts.

Highlight soft skills like punctuality, attention to detail, discretion, and responsibility. These are highly valued in house cleaning positions.

Even if you haven’t worked in Germany before, list relevant cleaning experience from your home country. Consistency and reliability speak louder than location.

Preparing for the Interview and Progressing in the Role

Expect questions about availability, reliability, and experience. Be honest, direct, and show you’re open to feedback and flexible with hours.

After being hired, most companies offer short training periods. Take notes, observe experienced staff, and show eagerness to improve every day.

To grow in the role, focus on consistency and client satisfaction. Workers who gain trust may be offered more hours or better-paying assignments over time.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Cleaners in Germany

Working in cleaning in Germany can be a dignified, safe way to achieve financial stability and enter the local job market.

The combination of constant demand, strong labor rights, and varied contract models makes this field accessible even for newcomers.

Before accepting any offer, verify if there’s a contract, if pay rates are fair, and if benefits are included.

With good organization, it’s possible to turn a basic job into a consistent path to improve your life in Germany.