Translation guide
The English word "cleaner" can refer to a person, a substance, a device, or a shop. Japanese uses different words for each meaning. This guide helps you choose the right one.
Referring to a person whose job is cleaning, such as in an office, hotel, or house.
General term for a cleaning staff member, often used in professional contexts like offices or buildings.
The cleaner cleans the office every morning.
Casual way to say "cleaning person." Common in everyday speech.
Let's tidy up before the cleaner comes.
Specifically a female cleaner. Somewhat dated; use 清掃員 for gender neutrality.
The cleaning lady was mopping the hallway.
Referring to a substance used for cleaning, like detergent, bleach, or spray.
General word for detergent or cleaning agent. Use for laundry, dishes, or household cleaning liquids/powders.
This cleaner works well on grease.
Loanword from English, often used for specific products like glass cleaner or bathroom cleaner. Often part of a compound.
Specifically bleach or whitening cleaner. Use only when you mean bleach.
Referring to a tool or machine for cleaning, like a vacuum cleaner or pressure washer.
Referring to a shop where clothes are dry-cleaned.
The loanword クリーナー usually refers to a cleaning product or device, not a person. For a person who cleans, use 清掃員 or 掃除の人.
洗剤 is the general word for detergent (laundry, dishes, etc.). クリーナー is often used in compound words for specific cleaners (e.g., ガラスクリーナー) or devices. When in doubt, 洗剤 is safer for cleaning liquids/powders.
Buy some glass cleaner.
Please ventilate when using bleach cleaner.
I sanitized the floor with a steam cleaner.