The Benefits of Choosing a Living Wage Cleaning Company

When it comes to choosing a commercial cleaning company, price and reliability often top the list. But there is another factor that says a lot about quality and values: choosing a Living Wage cleaning company.

In the UK, the cleaning industry is known for long hours, low pay, and high staff turnover. But some companies are working to change that by becoming accredited Living Wage Employers, ensuring their team earns a fair wage that reflects the real cost of living.

This isn’t just good news for cleaners; it’s good for your business too. Fair pay leads to better staff retention, more motivated cleaners, and a consistently higher standard of service.

In this blog, we’ll break down what it really means to be a Living Wage cleaning company, why it matters, and how choosing one could benefit your business: ethically, practically, and professionally.

What Does It Mean to Be a Living Wage Employer in the UK?

Being a Living Wage Employer means choosing to pay your team a fair rate that reflects the real cost of living, not just the legal minimum. It’s a voluntary commitment, with the rate set independently to keep pace with what people genuinely need to live on.

Living Wage vs Minimum Wage: What’s the Difference? 

The National Minimum Wage is the lowest rate employers can legally pay, with different amounts for different ages and apprentices. The National Living Wage is slightly higher and applies to workers aged 21 and over.

The real Living Wage, however, is different. The Living Wage Foundation works it out based on the actual cost of living in the UK, and it’s only paid by employers who choose to go that extra mile for their staff.

National Living WageReal Living Wage

– Legal requirement – must be paid to eligible workers aged 21 and over
– Set by the UK Government
– Part of the National Minimum Wage structure
– It’s the highest rate within the National Minimum Wage tiers
– Same rate across the UK
– Voluntary – employers choose to pay it; it is not required by law
– Calculated by the Living Wage Foundation
– Based on the real cost of living in the UK and London
– Usually higher than the National Living Wage
– Separate higher rate for London due to higher living costs

The Current Real Living Wage in the UK

As of 2025, the Real Living Wage, the voluntary rate calculated by the Living Wage Foundation to reflect the real cost of living, is £12.60 per hour across the UK. In London, where living costs are higher, the London Living Wage is £13.85 per hour.

These rates go beyond the government’s National Living Wage, which is currently £12.21 per hour for workers aged 21 and over.

How to Tell If a Cleaning Company Is a Living Wage Employer

You can check if a company is accredited by visiting the Living Wage Foundation’s official database, where you’ll find a searchable map and list of accredited employers.

The Importance of Fair Pay in the Cleaning Industry

The cleaning industry plays a vital role in keeping workplaces safe and hygienic. Yet, it remains one of the sectors most affected by low pay and insecure working conditions. Choosing a cleaning company that pays the Real Living Wage sends a clear message: your business values the people behind the service.

Fair pay is not only a moral choice. It also directly impacts the quality of work, staff retention, and the level of professionalism your business receives in return.

Why the Cleaning Sector Often Falls Behind

Cleaning is physically demanding work, often done during early mornings, evenings, or overnight. Unfortunately, it is also a sector where low pay has been the norm for far too long. Many cleaners are paid only the legal minimum, and in some outsourced roles, even less.

With limited job security, unpredictable hours, and heavy workloads, high staff turnover is common. When cleaning providers cut costs on wages, the result is often rushed jobs, poor service, and disengaged staff. Businesses that opt for the cheapest option may end up paying more later due to low-quality work and a lack of consistency.

The Human Impact of Paying a Living Wage

The Real Living Wage ensures that cleaners earn enough to cover basic living costs like rent, food, transport, and utilities without needing benefits or taking on extra jobs. It provides financial stability and a better work-life balance.

For many cleaners, working for a Living Wage employer can be life-changing. It can mean heating their home properly, affording nutritious meals, or spending more time with loved ones.

Benefits of Hiring a Living Wage Cleaning Company

Hiring a cleaning company that pays the Real Living Wage brings meaningful advantages to your business. Here’s how:

  1. Motivated, Reliable Staff

Cleaners who are paid fairly feel more valued. This often leads to higher motivation, better attendance, and more reliable service.

What does this mean for you?

  • Lower staff turnover
  • Familiar, consistent team members
  • Staff who take pride in delivering high-quality work

2. Better Quality Cleaning

A well-paid and respected cleaning team is more likely to go the extra mile. Cleaners who feel secure in their job and appreciated by their employer are more committed and attentive, leading to a noticeable difference in service.

3. Stronger Business Reputation

Doing the right thing gets noticed. In fact, 93% of Living Wage employers say it improves their reputation and helps them stand out from competitors. This shows clients and stakeholders that your business cares about people, not just profit.

4. Support for the Local Economy

Living Wage employers contribute to stronger, more stable communities. Cleaners who earn a decent income are more likely to:

  • Spend with local businesses
  • Make long-term financial decisions
  • Feel confident starting families or planning for the future

What It Says About Your Business

Hiring a commercial cleaning company that is a Living Wage Employer reflects positively on your brand. It shows that your business prioritises fairness, respect, and responsibility. You are not just outsourcing a task, you are aligning with companies that treat people properly.

In today’s competitive and socially aware environment, these decisions carry weight. Clients, employees, and partners pay attention to how businesses operate behind the scenes.

Aligning with Ethical and Responsible Practices

More than ever, companies are expected to demonstrate that they operate ethically and treat their employees fairly. Choosing contractors who look after their workers proves your business is serious about doing the right thing.

A Small Decision, a Lasting Difference

When choosing a commercial cleaning company, it’s tempting to focus solely on price. But opting for a Living Wage Employer is about more than just cost. It’s a choice that reflects your values and shows that your business cares about people.

By supporting fair pay, you help build a more motivated workforce and contribute to a stronger local community. It’s a small shift that carries real weight.

Next time you’re hiring a cleaning service, ask: Do you pay the Living Wage?

Because when cleaners are treated with respect and paid fairly, it shows in their work, in their commitment, and in the spaces they help maintain.

Choose a team that values people as much as performance. Get in touch today to learn more about our cleaning services or request a free quote.

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