Ergonomic essentials for cleaners
Work smarter, not harder: your guide to pain-free work
In professional cleaning, the right tools and techniques can make all the difference. But even with advanced equipment, knowing how to use it properly is essential to avoid strain and stay energized on the job.
Created by i-team Global in collaboration with ergonomic experts Andrea Hauck and Peter Strauch, this guide introduces easy-to-follow techniques to protect your body and enhance comfort as you clean. With expert tips and detailed images on every page, you’ll learn simple adjustments - like keeping your wrists straight while guiding a handle - to prevent physical pain and make each task feel manageable.

Keep it Close - No Twists - Use Tools
This guide offers tips to protect your body while cleaning. It covers safe ways to lift, reach, and position yourself, all with the help of ergonomic tools and machines.
Transport
For short distances, carry items close to your body. This reduces strain on your back muscles. For longer distances, use a trolley to move items with ease.
Lifting
Lift lightweight tools and objects close to your body. Stand close to the item, support yourself, and use a stable surface, like your knee or a table. For heavy items, bend your knees to protect your back.

Reaching far spots
If reaching far, support yourself (e.g., on a table) to prevent back strain. A telescopic tool can help you extend your reach comfortably.
Best working position
Stand directly in front of your work to avoid twisting. Look straight at what you’re doing to keep your back and joints aligned. Any movement should come from your legs, not your spine.
Use the power of tools and machines
Cleaning requires a firm grip throughout the day, which can be tiring. Machines are here to help! Use them to reduce strain, especially on your wrists. Always control machines with both hands, keeping your wrists straight to avoid twisting while applying force. Let the equipment do the heavy work so you can protect your joints and muscles.
Discover how small changes can make a big difference.
This booklet empowers you to clean smarter, stay stronger, and take pride in your work.
Download the full ergonomics guideFrequently asked questions about ergonomic cleaning
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Stand directly behind the i-mop, keeping it centered in front of you. This gives you a clear view of the cleaning path. Move your whole body with the machine, turning together as one unit. This technique reduces strain and improves cleaning performance.
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Always grasp the handles with both hands. This gives you better control of the i-mop and keeps your wrists straight, which reduces strain. The handles are positioned at hip height to support an upright posture, which is better for the back muscles.
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When cleaning a table, you often need to bend far forward, putting strain on your back as it supports your upper body. To ease pressure on your back, lean on the table while cleaning. You can use the tool to remove any handprints left by your supporting arm.
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Set the telescopic tube to a comfortable height by measuring from the back of your foot. The hoover nozzle should be positioned two large steps away from your heel. Keep the arm that moves the tube at hip height. In open spaces, turn your feet and body together to ensure your back remains straight. When you need to bend down, support yourself to let arm carry the weight.
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Set the wand to your height so that the button is at chin level for comfortable use. Hold the nob loosely with one hand while using your lower hand to move the wand, reducing shoulder strain.
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Put on the i-suit like a hiking backpack and adjust the straps to fit your body comfortably and securely. Tighten all three straps for easy movement. Kneel to attach the telescopic pole at the lower end so you don’t have to hold it freely. Hold the pole with your upper palm facing up to prevent wrist strain, and keep your elbows close to your body for shoulder comfort. Use steady forward and backward steps to guide the pole’s vertical movement with your feet. Shift it smoothly from side to side to move easily between windows.
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Using the i-glasses reduces neck strain. It has prism lenses that bend light, allowing you to see your work clearly without tilting your head. Your neck stays relaxed, and you can keep an eye on your surroundings without moving your head up and down constantly.
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Set the telescopic tube to a comfortable length so the nozzle is about two large steps from your rear foot. This position minimizes back strain as you vacuum. Hold the hose in your working hand and keep that arm steady at your hip. Use your other hand to guide the tube behind your back. Tis upright position allows you to move forward using your whole body, keeping strain off your arms. If a spot needs multiple passes, move your body back and forth with gentle, rocking steps.