Cleaner Workwear and PPE: What Commercial Cleaners Need in Australia
Written and reviewed by the Max Global Products team · Updated October 2026
Quick answer: a commercial cleaner needs disposable nitrile gloves for general cleaning, long-cuff chemical-resistant gloves for concentrates and toilets, splash goggles when mixing or decanting chemicals, enclosed slip-resistant footwear, a durable uniform or apron, and hi-vis when cleaning construction sites, car parks or warehouses.
The cleaner's kit list
| Item | What to look for | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| Disposable gloves | Nitrile, powder-free; change between areas to avoid cross-contamination. | Pro Choice heavy-duty disposable nitrile |
| Chemical gloves | Long-cuff nitrile or PVC for concentrates, bathrooms and wet work. Colour-code by area. | Pro Choice BN60 extended nitrile |
| Eye protection | Splash goggles when diluting, decanting or spraying chemicals overhead. | Scope Maxx Pro anti-fog goggles |
| Footwear | Enclosed, slip-resistant (SR) sole for wet floors. | Portwest FW82 safety clog (SR), safety runners |
| Uniform | Hard-wearing polo or tunic plus an apron for wet work. | Shirts and polos, aprons |
| Hi-vis | Class D or D/N vest for sites with vehicles or forklifts. | Syzmik ZV999 Class D/N vest |
| Supplies | Chemicals, paper, bins, mops and washroom consumables. | Janitorial and cleaning |
Chemical safety
Read the safety data sheet for every product; it lists the gloves and eye protection required. Never mix chemicals: bleach with acids or ammonia releases toxic gases. Repeated wet work and detergents cause dermatitis, so wear gloves and moisturise. See Safe Work Australia on chemicals and contact dermatitis.
Frequently asked questions
What gloves should cleaners wear?
Disposable nitrile for general cleaning, and long-cuff chemical-resistant nitrile or PVC gloves for concentrates, toilets and wet work. Many teams colour-code gloves by area.
Do cleaners need safety shoes?
Enclosed, slip-resistant shoes are essential. A safety toe is required on construction sites, warehouses and anywhere with trolleys and heavy equipment.
Do cleaners need eye protection?
Yes when diluting, decanting or spraying chemicals, especially overhead. Splash goggles seal better than glasses.
Outfitting a team
Cleaning contractor? Apply for a trade account. See the full guide by trade.
Last reviewed October 2026. This guide covers common kit; your employer's risk assessment and site rules decide what is mandatory.