ECJ EUROPEAN Cleaning Journal

What happens when a raccoon is called to a kindergarten to take on an important cleaning mission?

This is the starting point for a new Nordic children's book about Alex the raccoon, created through Nordic Cleaning Cooperation (NOCC), a collaboration between cleaning and service sector organisations in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. 

The cooperation focuses on strengthening the visibility and status of the cleaning profession, exchanging knowledge and experience, and promoting professional development across the Nordic countries. Its members are Dansk Rengøringsteknisk Forening (DRF) in Denmark, Puhtausala ry in Finland, Norsk Forening for Service og Renhold (NFSR) in Norway and Städbranschen Sverige in Sweden.

The story follows Alex and his work in a kindergarten. Through humour, imagination and educational elements, the book introduces children to cleaning as a natural and essential part of everyday life.

Alex is not simply the cleaner in the story. He is the hero.

The book also features an interactive cover using heat-sensitive thermochromic varnish. When the window area on the cover is warmed by a child's hand, the hidden image underneath becomes visible, creating the impression that the window has been cleaned.

Cleaners' Day link

The launch is closely connected to Cleaners' Day, which is celebrated in the Nordic countries on the first Monday of December.

Across the four countries, the book will be used as part of activities designed to increase awareness of professional claning and the people working within it.

Wider potential reach

NOCC would also like to understand whether there is interest in the book outside the Nordic region.

Organisations, associations or other relevant partners that may be interested in having the book translated into another language, and potentially purchasing copies in that language, are invited to register their interest.

Email: matthias.lindholm@stadbranschensverige.se to find out more.