NimbCrewQuick answer
Train new cleaners with a simple, repeatable SOP: day-one context, shadowed runs, a clear quality checklist, and two checkpoint reviews before they go solo.
If you want one system for scheduling, checklists, and invoicing, start free and review pricing.
Prep before day one
Set new hires up to win before the first shift:
- confirm service standards (scope, exclusions, quality bar)
- prepare route notes and access details for the first jobs
- print or share the quality checklist and room-by-room scope
- assign a lead cleaner for shadowing
For a full operational baseline, review the residential cleaning software guide.
Step-by-step training SOP
1) Start with a 15-minute context briefing
Cover the basics in plain language:
- who the client is and what matters to them
- arrival window and access expectations
- scope boundaries and exclusions
- how you handle issues or damage reports
2) Walk the cleaner through the quality checklist
Use a checklist with room-level outcomes. Don’t explain just tasks; explain the expected result (for example, "no streaks" vs "wipe mirror").
3) Shadow the first job in real time
Have the new cleaner shadow a lead for the first job. Let them perform a few sections while the lead models pace, order of operations, and quality checks.
4) Run a guided second job
On job two, swap roles: the new cleaner leads while the trainer shadows and corrects in the moment.
5) Review a short quality checkpoint
After each training job, review:
- what went well
- what needs repeat practice
- one improvement focus for the next job
6) Confirm solo readiness with a final checklist
Use a final walk-through with the checklist to confirm consistency before solo assignments.
Training checkpoints by shift
Simple checkpoint plan for the first three shifts
| Shift | Focus area | Trainer role |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shadowing + standards walkthrough | Lead models + explains pacing |
| 2 | Guided execution + corrections | Lead shadows and corrects in place |
| 3 | Independent run + final QA checklist | Lead reviews results and signs off |
Related reads:
Common training mistakes
- Throwing new cleaners into solo jobs too early.
- Skipping written scope or room-by-room standards.
- Using inconsistent feedback from different trainers.
- Reviewing issues days later instead of right after the job.
- Assuming speed matters before quality is consistent.
Ready-to-use training checklist
Day-one prep
- share client standards, scope, and exclusions
- assign a lead cleaner and confirm route timing
- review safety, access, and supply locations
Shadow shift
- walk through the quality checklist before starting
- explain pacing and order of operations
- pause after each room for outcome review
Solo readiness
- run the final checklist with the lead cleaner
- document the improvement focus for shift three
- confirm expectations for solo work
If you want training checklists tied to schedules and invoices
Training moves faster when checklists, notes, and job history live in one workflow.
Try NimbCrew free, then review pricing when you need more users.
Common questions
How long should it take to train a new cleaner?
Most small teams can get a cleaner to solo-ready quality in three shifts when shadowing and checklists are consistent.
What should a cleaning quality checklist include?
Include room-by-room outcomes, scope exclusions, and a final walkthrough step that confirms the client-facing details are correct.
Should training focus on speed or quality first?
Quality comes first. Speed improves naturally once the cleaner follows a stable order of operations and knows the standards.