International Women’s Day offers a chance to celebrate the remarkable impact women have made in transforming the cleaning industry. Once relegated to traditional, undervalued roles, women are now leading the charge, innovating and building empires across Canada.
Historically, the seeds of change were sown by pioneers like Lillian Gilbreth, whose time-and-motion studies revolutionized household efficiency, impacting kitchen design and cleaning tools. Today, this spirit of innovation thrives in entrepreneurs like Lisa and Alexa of Good Juju. Their commitment to natural, plastic-free alternatives, from solid shampoo to laundry strips, is dismantling single-use plastic reliance and fostering a conscious community. Good Juju empowers Canadians to make sustainable choices, directly influencing how cleaning products are packaged and used.
Similarly, Leigh Joseph of Sḵwálwen Botanicals blends Indigenous knowledge with modern formulations, creating botanical skincare that champions sustainable harvesting. Her holistic approach demonstrates that respect for the environment and traditional practices creates exceptional products, inspiring conscious consumption.
At Dispersa, innovation extends beyond product creation. Nivatha Balendra, CEO and Founder, was motivated to find an environmentally-friendly solution to oil contamination, after the Lac-Megantic train crash in which millions of gallons of oil were spilled into the rural town. She has pioneered a bacterial process to produce biodegradable biosurfactants. These non-toxic, palm-oil free agents are revolutionizing cleaning product formulations, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional surfactants. Dispersa’s technology empowers manufacturers to create safer, eco-friendly products, addressing the growing demand for sustainable cleaning solutions.
The success of MOLLY MAID across Canada is significantly fueled by the dedication and entrepreneurial spirit of its female Franchise Partners as exemplified by Candace Parent. Recipient of the Franchisee of the Year award from the Canadian Franchise Association. Parent’s achievement is not an isolated incident, but a reflection of the broader trend within Molly Maid, where women are consistently exceeding expectations and setting new standards for excellence. These women are not just running businesses; they are building thriving enterprises, creating jobs, and fostering strong community connections, proving that women are integral to the flourishing of the MOLLY MAID brand in Canada.
And, let’s not forget the influencers on CleanTok and YouTube, like, Melissa Maker. The Canadian force behind the YouTube channel “Clean My Space,” has undeniably made a significant impact on cleaning practices across Canada and beyond. Her approach, which blends practical tips with a relatable, down-to-earth style, has resonated with a wide audience and solidified her place as a prominent figure in the Canadian homekeeping landscape.
Canadian women are demonstrating that cleaning is not just a task, but a platform for innovation, sustainability, and leadership. They are redefining the industry, proving that a passion for cleanliness can lead to powerful change.
