The history of cleaning and hygiene dates back to prehistoric times. Since water has always been essential for life, early humans settled near water sources and already understood some of its cleansing properties, or at the very least used it to wash mud from their hands. In biblical times, Moses conveyed detailed laws regarding personal hygiene and the connection between cleanliness, health and religious purity.

After the fall of Rome in the year 467 CE and the decline of bathing traditions, filth spread across large parts of Europe and harmed public health. Poor hygiene and inadequate living conditions greatly contributed to the spread of major epidemics during the Middle Ages. It was only in the seventeenth century that cleanliness and bathing returned to popularity across Europe.

Cleaning Standards for Victorian Public Hospitals "Earlier this year, hospitals received grants of $8000-$30,000 in start-up funds, based on size, to help implement the new cleaning standards". "Healthier hospitals is one of the Bracks Government’s main objectives, with $33 million over four years allocated for improved infection control and cleaning standards".

In Australia, the Ministry of Health conducted research that demonstrated a direct link between the level of cleanliness in hospitals and the speed and quality of patient recovery. As a result, the government decided to invest significant financial resources in raising cleaning standards in hospitals, recognizing it as the most cost effective and efficient method of preventing harm.

Victorian public hospitals will be rated according to cleanliness after random audits later this year, Health Minister John Thwaites said today.

Victorian public hospitals will be rated according to cleanliness after random audits later this year, Health Minister John Thwaites said today.

Launching the Cleaning Standards for Victorian Public Hospitals booklet at the Western Hospital, Mr Thwaites also announced an additional $3 million to allow hospitals to employ more cleaners.

"This extra $3 million brings the total commitment next year for infection and cleaning control to $8.15 million, which will help hospitals meet new cleaning standards,” Mr Thwaites said.

One of the greatest tragedies of the cleaning profession is that the immense benefit it brings to the comfort, well being and health of the people it serves is so significant and obvious, yet the compensation and recognition for this work remain inadequate.