Cleaning challenges the elderly and those with physical disabilities face

As cleaning company owners, we have the privilege of working with a wide range of clients, each with their own unique needs and circumstances. One group that often requires a bit more attention and understanding are those with physical disabilities or the elderly. For many people in these situations, everyday tasks such as cleaning their home, putting out the rubbish, collecting post can become not only overwhelming but physically impossible.

In this blog, we want to shine a light on the difficulties that people with physical disabilities or the elderly face when it comes to maintaining a clean home, and how Cleaning Queen can help make a real difference.


The Struggles of Cleaning for Those with Physical Disabilities

When it comes to cleaning, mobility can be a significant barrier. For people with conditions such as arthritis, muscular dystrophy, or spinal cord injuries, bending down to vacuum, scrubbing surfaces, or even lifting light items can be incredibly painful or difficult to manage. Not to mention that some people may struggle with stamina; they might get tired quickly and find it exhausting to keep up with household chores.

The challenges are even more pronounced for individuals with visual impairments. Without the ability to see clearly, it's difficult to assess if surfaces are clean or to spot areas that may need attention. Those with limited hand dexterity may also find it hard to handle cleaning tools, such as a mop, vacuum, or cleaning sprays.

In addition, the fear of falling or injury is always present. Sweeping and mopping, for example, can be hazardous if one isn’t able to maintain balance or stability. For those using mobility aids like wheelchairs or walkers, navigating around furniture while carrying cleaning tools is a significant challenge.


How Elderly People Face Similar Struggles

As we age, our bodies simply aren’t as nimble as they once were. Elderly individuals may experience joint pain, reduced muscle strength, or conditions like osteoporosis, which makes bending, reaching, or heavy lifting particularly painful and dangerous. Tasks like scrubbing floors, lifting furniture, or even changing bed linens can quickly become overwhelming.

What’s more, mental health plays a role, too. Some elderly people may feel a sense of frustration or embarrassment when they can no longer keep up with regular cleaning, leading to feelings of isolation or stress. Additionally, the fear of not maintaining a clean home can add to the emotional toll of aging.


How Our Cleaning Company Can Help

At Cleaning Queen Ltd, we truly try to understand the challenges that people with physical disabilities and the elderly face. That’s why we offer tailored cleaning services designed to meet their needs with sensitivity, respect, and care. Here's how we can help:


1. Tailored Cleaning Plans

We understand that no two homes are alike, and the cleaning needs of those with disabilities or elderly clients may vary greatly. Our team will work with you to create a personalised cleaning schedule that fits your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Whether it's a weekly general clean or more deeper clean monthly we'll ensure that we address areas that are most important to you.


2. Mobility-Friendly Services

For clients using wheelchairs or other mobility aids, we work efficiently around any obstacles in the home, ensuring that all areas are cleaned to the highest standards, even if it means getting into tighter spaces. We can also help with moving light furniture to reach difficult areas, such as behind the sofa or under the bed.


3. Light Assistance with Personal Tasks

Some of our clients require a little more assistance beyond just cleaning. We’re happy to lend a hand with light tasks, such as changing bed linens or sorting laundry, putting out the rubbish/bins, opening jars, collecting post from communal areas etc. These seemingly small tasks can often become overwhelming, so we make sure to offer a full range of services to provide the best support.


4. Respectful, Friendly Service

One of the key values in our cleaning company is respect. We understand that having strangers come into your home can sometimes feel intimidating, but we strive to build trust with every client and truly care. Our cleaners are always friendly, approachable, and sensitive to the needs of elderly clients or those with disabilities. We take pride in fostering a positive and respectful relationship, making sure every client feels comfortable and valued.


5. Regular Cleaning for Peace of Mind

We offer regular cleaning services with the same cleaner each time, which can be especially beneficial for individuals with ongoing mobility challenges. Having a consistent cleaning schedule gives our clients peace of mind, knowing their homes are always tidy and hygienic, without the worry of trying to tackle cleaning tasks on their own.



Cleaning doesn’t need to be a daunting or impossible task for people with physical disabilities or the elderly. At Cleaning Queen, we’re here to take the burden off your shoulders and make your home a place of comfort and cleanliness. Whether it’s for a one-off clean or regular assistance, we’re committed to making your life easier and providing the best possible support.

If you or a loved one are struggling with cleaning tasks, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help and would be happy to discuss how we can assist you in making your home a cleaner, safer, and more comfortable space.

With the right help, we can all enjoy a clean, comfortable home – no matter the challenges we face.

New year cleans in September!
by Danielle Navarro 3 September 2025
New year cleans in September!
Should I prep for my cleaner
by Danielle Navarro 4 August 2025
Whether you're welcoming a cleaner for the first time or having a regular clean, knowing how to prepare your home for a cleaning service can save time, reduce stress, and improve results. As an established cleaning company serving homes across East Anglia, we’ve compiled our top recommendations to help you get the most from every visit. We understand that not everyone is able to prep and you definitely don't have to, it's your own preference but it does save time, therefore money and your cleaner can complete more cleaning rather than tidying. Why Preparation Matters Hiring a professional cleaning service doesn’t mean you need to scrub before they arrive—but a few simple steps can help cleaners focus on the cleaning. Our customers often ask: Do I need to tidy up before a cleaner arrives? Should I leave out my own cleaning products? Will they clean around clutter or organise things? This blog answers those questions and more. 1. Tidy Up, Don’t Deep Clean You don’t need to clean before the cleaners—that’s our job! But light tidying is highly recommended. What to do: Pick up toys, clothes, paperwork, or other clutter from floors and countertops. Wash up any dishes and put away. Remove personal items from bathroom counters. Why? Tidying frees up surfaces and floors so cleaners c an vacuum, dust and polish eff iciently without needing to move lots of items. 2. Clear Kitchen & Bathroom Surfaces Kitchens and bathrooms are two of the most time-intensive areas to clean—especially in UK homes where limescale and grime build up quickly. What helps: Remove dirty dishes and food items from counters. Take toothbrushes, razors, or cosmetics off the sink area. Keep on top of stray hairs. Pro tip: use a squeegee after showering to remove the water and reduce limescale building up. 3. Secure Pets & Provide Access At Cleaning Queen we love pets—but they can be distracting. On the day of cleaning: Let us know if pets will be home (especially if they’re reactive or nervous). Keep pets in a separate room or garden if possible. Ensure keys, alarm codes, or access instructions are communicated in advance if you won’t be in. Some clients also leave out pet-safe floor sprays—we're happy to use these when requested. 4. Make Special Requests in Advance Want us to focus on skirting boards, deep bathroom scrubbing, or skip a certain room? Just let us know. Best practice: Message or email requests or you can let your cleaner know on the day if you wish as long as it fits within the timescale booked. Label any areas that should be avoided (e.g. work-from-home offices) 5. Leave Out Products (If Required) While Cleaning Queen bring their own products, clients w ith allergies, eco concerns, or pets may prefer to supply their own. We use our clients vacuum and mop so please either advise us where these are kept or leave them out for your cleaner. Options: Leave out preferred products (e.g. Method, Ecover, Zoflora) and tools (like your own mop or vacuum). Speak to your cleaner or leave a note if certain products should or shouldn't be used in certain rooms. If you’d like us to use your own products just let us know—we’re happy to do this. 6. Prep Payment & Instructions (If You're Out) If you won’t be home during the clean: Provide us with detailed instructions on access and any specific requests in advance Leave payment (if paying by cash) in a clearly labelled envelope. Ensure doors, gates or alarm systems can be operated easily. 7. Don’t Worry About Perfection! Your cleaner isn’t judging your home. We’re here to make life easier, not harder. Life gets messy—especially with children, pets, or a busy schedule. That’s exactly why you asked us to help. We recommend: Keeping open communication. Letting us know what’s most important to you. Booking regular cleans (weekly or fortnightly) for consistently clean results. Preparing for your cleaner’s visit doesn’t need to take long—but a small effort can make a big difference. With a clear space to work and clear instructions, your cleaner can deliver the sparkling results you’re paying for. 
by Danielle Navarro 29 June 2025
The Dark Side of Viral Cleaning Hacks: What TikTok Won’t Tell You! In the age of social media, cleaning has gone from a chore to a trend. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are full of cleaning hacks, DIY solutions, and “CleanTok” time-lapses that promise miraculous results with minimal effort. But while some of these tips are genuinely helpful, others are risky, misleading, or even dangerous. As a professional domestic cleaning company, we’ve seen first hand the consequences of viral cleaning advice gone wrong. Here’s what you—and your home—need to be cautious about. 1. Mixing Chemicals = Hidden Danger One of the most common (and dangerous) mistakes seen in viral videos is mixing household cleaners without understanding the chemical reactions involved. Examples: Bleach + vinegar = chlorine gas (toxic when inhaled) Bleach + toilet cleaner = fumes that can burn the lungs Baking soda + vinegar = dramatic fizz, but neutralizes both and does little actual cleaning Just because it foams or smells fresh doesn’t mean it’s effective—or safe! 2. TikTok = Entertainment, Not Expertise Many creators aren’t cleaning professionals. Their content is often designed for views and likes, not safe or effective results. Unvetted advice : Some “hacks” are based on myths or half-truths. One-size-fits-all tips : Using lemon on stone surfaces, for instance, can etch and damage natural materials like marble or granite. Overuse of products : Soaking fabric in disinfectants may lead to skin irritation or fabric damage. Your home deserves more than internet guesswork! 3. Damage to Surfaces & Appliances What looks satisfying in a 15-second video can cost you in repairs. Common Issues: Magic erasers scratch glossy or delicate surfaces if used too harshly. Toilet cleaning bombs (often with blue food dye) stain ceramic and plastic. Foil in the dishwasher trick (to make cutlery “shinier”) can void your warranty or harm filters. What seems like a “cheap trick” can become an expensive mistake! 4. Wasteful or Overcomplicated Routines Some viral hacks involve multiple steps or excessive use of products you don’t need: Using six products where one will do Cleaning routines that take 3–4 hours daily —unrealistic for most Highly fragranced items that trigger allergies or asthma in small homes with poor ventilation Minimalism often wins. Less product, more technique! Safer Alternatives: What We Recommend Instead of jumping on the latest trend, try: Microfibre cloths + warm soapy water for most surfaces Using eco-certified, fragrance-free products for kitchens and bathrooms Following manufacturer guidelines for ovens, floors, and furniture Consulting a professional (like us!) for deep cleans, limescale build up and maintenance cleans Final Thought TikTok hacks might look impressive—but they’re no substitute for real knowledge, experience, and care. At Cleaning Queen, we love innovation—but only when it’s safe, proven, and actually effective. Let’s leave the entertainment to influencers and the elbow grease to the experts!
Show More