Can cleaners work in lockdown? We investigate...
We explain the latest rules – if you're wondering if cleaners can still work
There's nothing better than coming home to freshly vacuumed carpet and a gleaming kitchen sink – thanks to your cleaner. However, when we moved into lockdown in January many of us were left confused about whether or not cleaners can work in our homes.
The pressures on parents at the moment are immense – both homeschooling their children and working from home. Having an extra hand to keep on top of the housework would be a relief for many.
- See: Best cordless vacuum cleaners – the top stick vacuum cleaners for all budgets
Can cleaners still work in lockdown?
Fortunately, the latest government guidelines say that cleaners can still work in lockdown, as they are among those who are unable to work remotely.
With lots of parents feeling burnt out due to the juggle between work and homeschooling – let alone living through a global pandemic – this is good news for many. We all know having a tidy, ordered space around us has a huge impact on our mental health, meaning we're able to face any challenges our day might throw at us.
The government has laid out some guidelines on its website for those visiting people's homes. 'From 6 January, a national lockdown applies in all of England. You can only leave home for work purposes where it is unreasonable for you to do your job from home,' the government site explains.
'Where it is necessary for you to work in other people’s homes – for example, for nannies, cleaners or tradespeople – you can do so. Otherwise, you should avoid meeting for work in a private home or garden, where Covid-19 secure measures may not be in place.'
- See: Kitchen cleaning tips – easy, eco-friendly, and from the world's top experts
For those who cannot work from home, the government also advises washing hands and disinfecting surfaces more frequently, and to keep the time spent indoors as short as possible.
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People are advised to travel to work alone and to use their own transport rather than getting the bus or train – if this option is available to them.
Those providing in-home services are advised to ask their employer to leave the doors within their home open to avoid repeated contact on door handles. They should also bring their own food and drink, and take breaks outside if possible.
- See: How to clean a washing machine – the definitive guide
Cleaners are advised to take precautions and to follow social distancing when working, and they must not go to work if they have any coronavirus symptoms, such as a consistent cough, high temperature or change in their sense of smell or taste.
So it's good news for cleaners, who can continue to work, and for those of us in need of an extra helping hand, as having a cleaner come to your home does not break current lockdown rules.
Millie Hurst is a freelance lifestyle writer with over six years of experience in digital journalism. Having previously worked as Solved Section Editor at Homes & Gardens and Senior SEO Editor at News UK in London and New York, Millie has written for an array of homes brands including Livingetc and Real Homes and was formerly Senior Content Editor at Ideal Home. She has written and edited countless features on home organization, decluttering and interior design and always hopes to inspire readers with new ways to enjoy their homes. She lives in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, and loves to weave nature-inspired decor and nods to time spent in Italy into her own home.
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