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What kind of machines do you use in the custodial field?
I am an 18 year old young man looking for a career as a custodian. #career
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Joe’s Answer
Custodial work is one of those jobs that can seem simple on the surface, but the people who stand out bring extra skills, professionalism, and adaptability. And yes, the field is evolving because of technology, health standards, and sustainability trends.
Here’s a breakdown:
What Makes a Standout Custodian
1. Core Technical Skills
Thorough cleaning ability: Mastery of floor care (strip/wax, buffing, carpet cleaning), restroom sanitation, and general cleaning tasks.
Equipment use: Skilled in operating floor machines, extractors, and increasingly, robotic cleaning machines.
Chemical knowledge: Safe use of cleaning chemicals, dilution systems, and eco-friendly products.
2. Professional Habits
Reliability: Always punctual, dependable, and consistent.
Attention to detail: Not just surface cleaning — noticing small things others overlook.
Safety-conscious: Following OSHA rules, using PPE correctly, and preventing slips/falls.
Time management: Completing tasks efficiently without cutting corners.
3. Soft Skills That Shine
Customer service mindset: Custodians often interact with staff, students, patients, or visitors — being friendly and approachable stands out.
Problem solving: Handling unexpected messes, equipment breakdowns, or supply shortages calmly.
Discretion & trustworthiness: Many custodians work after hours with access to sensitive areas — integrity is key.
4. Extra Skills That Put You Ahead
Minor maintenance skills (changing light bulbs, fixing small repairs).
Basic computer literacy (many cleaning schedules and supply systems are digital now).
Bilingual skills — valuable in diverse workplaces.
Leadership potential — ability to train new custodians or supervise a crew.
How the Custodial Career is Changing
Historically, custodial work focused only on cleaning, but in the last 10–15 years, the role has been elevating due to health, safety, and tech:
Health & Safety Standards: Post-COVID, cleaning for health (disinfection, infection control) is more important than just cleaning for appearance.
Technology & Automation: Facilities are adopting robotic vacuums, floor scrubbers, and smart sensors to monitor cleanliness. Custodians who can run and maintain these tools stand out.
Green Cleaning: More workplaces demand sustainable, chemical-free, or reduced-waste methods. Knowledge of “green” certifications is a plus.
Expanded Role: In schools, hospitals, and offices, custodians are increasingly seen as part of the safety/security team, helping spot hazards or reporting issues.
How to Future-Proof Yourself
If you want custodial work to be a real career (not just a job), aim to:
Get certified (e.g., ISSA’s Cleaning Management Institute certifications, OSHA safety training).
Learn equipment maintenance & digital systems used in modern facilities.
Develop supervisory skills if you want to move into lead custodian or facilities manager roles.
In summary then: To stand out, you should be the custodian who is skilled, reliable, detail-oriented, tech-aware, and professional in conduct. The career itself is shifting slowly toward more technology, sustainability, and health focus — so those who adapt will have better opportunities and higher pay.
Good luck!
Here’s a breakdown:
What Makes a Standout Custodian
1. Core Technical Skills
Thorough cleaning ability: Mastery of floor care (strip/wax, buffing, carpet cleaning), restroom sanitation, and general cleaning tasks.
Equipment use: Skilled in operating floor machines, extractors, and increasingly, robotic cleaning machines.
Chemical knowledge: Safe use of cleaning chemicals, dilution systems, and eco-friendly products.
2. Professional Habits
Reliability: Always punctual, dependable, and consistent.
Attention to detail: Not just surface cleaning — noticing small things others overlook.
Safety-conscious: Following OSHA rules, using PPE correctly, and preventing slips/falls.
Time management: Completing tasks efficiently without cutting corners.
3. Soft Skills That Shine
Customer service mindset: Custodians often interact with staff, students, patients, or visitors — being friendly and approachable stands out.
Problem solving: Handling unexpected messes, equipment breakdowns, or supply shortages calmly.
Discretion & trustworthiness: Many custodians work after hours with access to sensitive areas — integrity is key.
4. Extra Skills That Put You Ahead
Minor maintenance skills (changing light bulbs, fixing small repairs).
Basic computer literacy (many cleaning schedules and supply systems are digital now).
Bilingual skills — valuable in diverse workplaces.
Leadership potential — ability to train new custodians or supervise a crew.
How the Custodial Career is Changing
Historically, custodial work focused only on cleaning, but in the last 10–15 years, the role has been elevating due to health, safety, and tech:
Health & Safety Standards: Post-COVID, cleaning for health (disinfection, infection control) is more important than just cleaning for appearance.
Technology & Automation: Facilities are adopting robotic vacuums, floor scrubbers, and smart sensors to monitor cleanliness. Custodians who can run and maintain these tools stand out.
Green Cleaning: More workplaces demand sustainable, chemical-free, or reduced-waste methods. Knowledge of “green” certifications is a plus.
Expanded Role: In schools, hospitals, and offices, custodians are increasingly seen as part of the safety/security team, helping spot hazards or reporting issues.
How to Future-Proof Yourself
If you want custodial work to be a real career (not just a job), aim to:
Get certified (e.g., ISSA’s Cleaning Management Institute certifications, OSHA safety training).
Learn equipment maintenance & digital systems used in modern facilities.
Develop supervisory skills if you want to move into lead custodian or facilities manager roles.
In summary then: To stand out, you should be the custodian who is skilled, reliable, detail-oriented, tech-aware, and professional in conduct. The career itself is shifting slowly toward more technology, sustainability, and health focus — so those who adapt will have better opportunities and higher pay.
Good luck!
Updated
Stacie’s Answer
When starting as a custodian you will want to to have many manual cleaning supplies such as paper towels, rags for cleaning and dusting, glass cleaners, all purpose cleaners, toilet cleaning supplies and disinfectants. You will also need brooms, mops and vacuum cleaner. When you are more established you may want to include a buffer for stripping and waxing floors. You will also need gloves to protect yourself as well as facial coverings.