In the expansive ecosystem of the sharing economy, Airbnb has emerged as one of the most significant players. Serving as a platform for homeowners to rent out their properties to transient guests, the business model of Airbnb has revolutionized the hospitality industry. Yet, the success of this platform rests on the foundation of a clean, comfortable, and hospitable environment which, in turn, is undergirded by the often overlooked but vital Airbnb cleaners industry. As we delve into the intricacies of this industry, we reveal key findings and integral insights that lend a fresh perspective on the functioning, challenges, and future of the Airbnb cleaners industry.

The Airbnb cleaners industry is an offshoot of the larger domestic and commercial cleaning industry. Although similar, the former constitutes a niche market segment that caters specifically to the needs of Airbnb hosts who seek swift, thorough, and professional cleanliness services between bookings. A Cambridge study, "Cleaning up the Sharing Economy," quantifies the economic impact of this industry, noting that it has generated approximately $4.1 billion in the United States alone as of 2019.

One of the critical aspects impacting the industry is the rise of technology. Many cleaning service providers now use digital scheduling tools to manage multiple properties more efficiently. These tools allow cleaners to keep track of bookings, schedule cleanings, and ensure timely service delivery. However, the use of such technology is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it facilitates efficiency and scalability; on the other, it exposes the industry to technological challenges and cyber threats. Therefore, securing these systems and ensuring data privacy is pivotal.

The geographic distribution of the Airbnb cleaners industry is in direct correlation with the Airbnb market itself. Major cities and tourist hotspots are the primary beneficiaries, with the industry being highly concentrated in these areas. Hence, competition among Airbnb cleaning services is fierce in these regions. However, the geographical variance also presents an opportunity for service providers to focus on untapped markets, particularly in the suburban areas or emerging tourist destinations.

When we consider the temporal aspect of the industry, we find a clear pattern of business cycles closely following the tourism seasonality. Summer and winter holidays see a surge in demand for cleaning services, resulting in increased business. However, this seasonal nature of demand often leads to inconsistent revenue streams, posing a significant financial management challenge for the cleaning services providers.

In terms of operational processes, the industry relies heavily on labor. Despite advances in technology, cleaning remains a manual task. This makes the industry labor-intensive, and it is often faced with issues such as high employee turnover, labor law compliance, and wage disputes. In the context of the Airbnb cleaners industry, these challenges are amplified because of the irregular work schedules and the need for flexibility.

As for the "why" of the situation; the Airbnb cleaners industry is integral to the success of Airbnb and other home-sharing platforms. A study published in The Journal of Consumer Research found that cleanliness is one of the most significant factors impacting guest satisfaction and subsequent ratings on Airbnb listings. Positive ratings are crucial for hosts as they directly influence booking rates and ultimately, their revenue. Thus, efficient, reliable, and high-quality cleaning services become a strategic necessity for hosts.

Looking towards the future, the Airbnb cleaning industry is poised for substantial growth as the sharing economy continues to flourish. In parallel, the industry will need to transform and adapt. Green cleaning, which involves using environmentally friendly products and practices, is likely to become a norm rather than an exception. Similarly, the integration of technology will become more prominent, not just in operational processes but also in customer communication and feedback management. Furthermore, the industry will need to address its labor challenges by offering competitive wages, steady work schedules, and a healthy work environment.

In conclusion, the Airbnb cleaning industry, while largely overlooked, plays a vital role in the success of the home-sharing economy. Its challenges are many, yet so are its opportunities. As home-sharing continues to expand, the Airbnb cleaners industry will inevitably evolve and adapt, shaping and being shaped by the dynamics of the sharing economy.