Little Green Fairy owner Jane Naylor has been battling the invisible germs that threaten public health in the city’s offices.
While she thoroughly enjoyed her job, she felt the cleaning industry needed more recognition, Mrs Naylor said.
‘‘There is a lack of understanding [on the part of the public] about what our job requires. We need to do our jobs with excellence — especially at the moment [during the Covid-19 pandemic]."
She had been running her cleaning business for the past three years.
After she quit her job, a friend who had a cleaning company was looking for someone to help.
‘‘Honestly, you don’t know the satisfaction I get out of cleaning an oven."
She had about 50 residential and seven commercial clients.
Her company used to have an eco-friendly approach, but since the Covid-19 outbreak she had been using more chemical products.
"Usually, I use only plant-based disinfectants but now I’m using bleach to ensure I kill all germs."
She was following the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) guidelines.
"I bleach all the door handles, surfaces and everything that can be touched. I do everything with gloves, of course."
She also changed into clean gloves when moving from room to room.
"The most important thing is to keep washing your hands — all the time."
There had been about a 20% increase in people looking for her services, Mrs Naylor said.
"Our clients have always been amazing but I think, in general, people are finally understanding and appreciating the cleaner’s service.
"I feel proud to be called an essential service."
