17 Cabin Cleaner Interview Questions and Answers

Cabin cleaners are responsible for cleaning the interior of airplanes between flights. They work in teams to clean the planes quickly and thoroughly so that the next set of passengers can board.

Cabin cleaners typically work for an airline or an aviation company that provides cleaning services to airlines. Some cabin cleaners are employed directly by an airline.

If you’re applying for a job as a cabin cleaner, you can expect to be asked a variety of questions about your work experience, physical abilities, and availability. You may also be asked questions about your willingness to work irregular hours, including early mornings, late nights, and weekends.

To help you prepare for your interview, we’ve compiled a list of cabin cleaner interview questions and answers.

Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced environment?

Employers ask this question to make sure you’re comfortable with the pace of their workplace. They want employees who can keep up with the demands of a busy hotel or resort. In your answer, explain that you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment and give an example of how you’ve done so in the past.

Example: “I am very comfortable working in a fast-paced environment. I have experience working at a hotel where we were always under pressure to get rooms cleaned quickly. I learned how to multitask effectively and work efficiently to meet those demands. I also developed systems for myself to help me stay organized and on top of my tasks.”

What are some of the cleaning methods you’ve used in the past?

This question can help the interviewer get a better idea of your cleaning experience. When answering this question, it can be helpful to list some of the methods you’ve used in the past and how they helped you clean more efficiently.

Example: “I have used several different cleaning methods throughout my career as a cabin cleaner. One method I use is deep-cleaning where I thoroughly clean all areas of the cabin. Another method I use is spot-cleaning where I focus on specific areas that need attention. I also use dusting and vacuuming regularly when working as a cabin cleaner. These three methods are very effective for keeping cabins clean and tidy.”

How would you handle a situation where a passenger is unhappy with the quality of your work?

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your customer service skills. They want to know that you can handle conflict and complaints in a professional manner. In your answer, try to emphasize the importance of maintaining positive relationships with customers.

Example: “If I ever had an unhappy passenger, I would first apologize for their experience. Then, I would offer them a discount on their next cruise or refund if they are unsatisfied with the cleaning services. If it’s within my power, I will do everything I can to make sure they have a better experience next time. I understand that as a cabin cleaner, I am responsible for making sure passengers feel comfortable in their rooms. I take pride in my work and always strive to exceed expectations.”

What is your process for handling hazardous materials on the job?

Cabin cleaners often work with chemicals and other hazardous materials. Employers ask this question to make sure you know how to handle these substances safely. Before your interview, read through the job description to see if they list any specific safety requirements. If not, review general guidelines for handling hazardous materials. In your answer, explain that you will follow all company policies regarding safety.

Example: “I always wear protective gear when working with hazardous materials. I also make sure to store them in a safe place where others can’t access them. When disposing of hazardous waste, I use only approved methods. For example, I would never dump chemical waste down the sink or toilet.”

Provide an example of a time when you had to multitask to complete a project on time.

Cabin cleaners often have to multitask in order to complete their projects on time. Employers ask this question to see if you can handle multiple tasks at once and still meet deadlines. In your answer, explain a specific situation where you had to multitask and how you managed it successfully.

Example: “At my previous job, I was tasked with cleaning the entire ship while also preparing for an inspection. This meant that I had to clean all of the cabins while also making sure they were stocked with linens and ready for guests. To do this, I split up the day into sections. First, I cleaned all of the public areas of the ship, then I moved onto the cabins. By doing this, I was able to get everything done before the inspection.”

If you saw a co-worker not following safety protocols, how would you address the issue?

Employers ask this question to make sure you understand the importance of following safety protocols and procedures. They want to know that you will be able to help your co-workers follow these rules, especially if they are new or unsure about them. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to ensure your co-worker understands the protocol.

Example: “I would first try to speak with my co-worker one-on-one to see if I could get a better understanding of why they were not following the rules. If they still did not comply after our conversation, I would report it to my supervisor so they can address the issue.”

What would you do if you saw a passenger engaging in behavior that could damage the cleanliness of the cabin, such as eating or drinking in the seats?

The interviewer wants to know how you would handle a potentially difficult situation. Your answer should show that you can remain calm and respectful in the face of conflict, while also ensuring the safety of passengers and cabin cleanliness.

Example: “I would politely ask them to stop eating or drinking in their seats. If they refused, I would explain that it is against company policy for them to do so and that we will need to remove them from the flight if they don’t comply. In this case, I would call security to ensure the safety of all involved.”

How well do you follow directions in written and verbal forms?

Cabin cleaners often receive instructions from their supervisors about how to clean a cabin. Employers ask this question to make sure you can follow these directions and complete the cleaning tasks they assign you. In your answer, explain that you are organized enough to keep track of verbal instructions and written ones as well. Explain that you will take notes during meetings with your supervisor so you can refer back to them later.

Example: “I am very good at following both verbal and written directions. I have excellent organizational skills, which allow me to remember important details when someone gives me verbal instructions. I also like to write down important information in my notebook or planner so I can refer back to it later. This helps me stay on task and ensure I’m completing all of the tasks I need to.”

Do you have experience using cleaning chemicals?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience with chemicals and how you use them. If you have no prior experience using cleaning chemicals, consider describing a time when you used other types of hazardous materials in the workplace.

Example: “I’ve worked with many different chemicals throughout my career as a cabin cleaner. I’m comfortable handling most chemicals because I understand their properties and know how to safely handle them. In my last position, I had to clean up an oil spill that occurred on one of the cruise ships. The company provided me with protective gear and taught me how to clean up the spill without exposing myself to too much oil.”

When is it appropriate to take breaks while completing a project?

Employers may ask this question to learn more about your work ethic and how you prioritize tasks. When answering, consider the company’s culture and what they expect from their employees. If you’re unsure of what is expected, it can be helpful to ask for a copy of the employee handbook or review any online resources that explain the company’s policies.

Example: “I believe breaks are important because they allow me to recharge my energy levels so I can complete projects with quality results. In my previous role as cabin cleaner at Mountain View Resort, I took two 15-minute breaks every day. One break was in the morning after completing 50% of my daily task list, and the other was in the afternoon after finishing 75%. This helped me stay focused on my work while also taking care of myself.”

We want to ensure that our cabin cleaners are happy and healthy. How do you maintain your energy and well-being while working?

Cabin cleaners often work long hours and may be exposed to harsh chemicals. Employers ask this question to make sure you have strategies for staying healthy while on the job. In your answer, share two or three ways that you stay energized and healthy at work.

Example: “I always bring snacks with me when I start my shift. This helps me avoid getting hungry and keeps my energy levels up throughout the day. Another way I maintain my health is by wearing a mask when spraying cleaning products. This reduces my exposure to harmful fumes and makes it easier for me to breathe.”

Describe your personal hygiene habits.

Employers ask this question to make sure you have good personal hygiene habits. They want to know that you take care of yourself and are clean. When answering, be honest about your daily routine. Explain what steps you take to keep yourself healthy and clean.

Example: “I am a very organized person, so I always make sure to shower every morning before work. I also brush my teeth twice a day and use mouthwash after meals. I try to eat healthy foods and exercise regularly. I find that these habits help me feel more energized throughout the day. I also wear deodorant every day and change into fresh clothes at least once a week.”

What makes you an ideal candidate for this cabin cleaner position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications for the job. They want to know what makes you a good fit for their company and how you can contribute to its success. Before your interview, make a list of reasons why you are qualified for this position. Think about your previous experience as well as any skills or traits that may be beneficial in this role.

Example: “I am an ideal candidate for this cabin cleaner position because I have extensive cleaning experience. In my last role, I was responsible for keeping the entire facility clean, including all common areas and employee break rooms. I also worked with a team of other cleaners, so I understand the importance of working collaboratively. My communication skills help me work well with others.”

Which cleaning methods do you prefer to use?

This question can help the interviewer learn more about your cleaning preferences and how you might approach a cabin cleaning job. You can answer this question by listing the methods you enjoy using, but also explain why you prefer them. This can show that you have an understanding of what each method is best for and when to use it.

Example: “I really like using steam cleaners because they are so versatile. I find that they’re great for removing stains from carpets, upholstery and other surfaces. They’re also good for sanitizing areas, which is important in a cabin setting where there may be multiple people staying at once. Another method I like is dry dusting because it’s fast and efficient. It’s also helpful for getting into tight spaces.”

What do you think is the most important part of your job as a cabin cleaner?

This question can help an interviewer understand what you value about your work and how you approach it. When answering this question, it can be helpful to focus on the most important aspects of cabin cleaning that relate to the job description.

Example: “I think the most important part of my job is making sure I am thorough in all areas of a cabin. It’s important to me that I leave each cabin spotless so guests have a great experience when they arrive. I also take pride in being able to clean quickly while still maintaining quality work.”

How often do you clean your home or work area?

Employers may ask this question to learn more about your cleaning habits and how often you might clean their facilities. They want someone who will keep the work area tidy, so they can focus on other aspects of the job. In your answer, try to be honest about how often you clean and what methods you use.

Example: “I clean my home every day or two, depending on how messy it gets. I usually do a thorough cleaning once a week, but if something spills or needs attention, I’ll clean it right away. At my last job, I cleaned our cabin twice a month. We had a lot of guests, so there was always something that needed attention.”

There is a bug on the window of an airplane. What is your reaction?

Bugs are a common problem in the cabin cleaning industry. Employers ask this question to make sure you know how to handle these types of situations safely and effectively. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to remove the bug from the window without harming yourself or others.

Example: “I would first try to capture the bug with my hand and then put it outside the airplane. If I couldn’t do that, I would use a tissue to carefully pick up the bug and place it in a plastic bag. Then, I would clean the area where the bug was using disinfectant wipes. Finally, I would check all the windows again to make sure there were no more bugs.”