If you’re a person who’s not sure what to tip your house cleaner, you’re not alone.
There are many different thoughts on the matter and it is hard to know how much to leave as a tip.
This article will help break down some of those thoughts and give some suggestions for tipping.
We’ll also explore whether or not cash is better than other types of tips such as physical gifts or bonuses at holiday time.
Table of Contents
Should You Tip Your House Cleaner?
If you are happy with the service that your house cleaner is providing, then the answer to this question is yes.
Tipping for services not only makes you feel better by rewarding good work, but it also helps motivate your cleaner to do more of a good job.
Cash Tips vs. Non-cash Gifts
There’s no denying it – cash tips are always welcome.
However, if you have worked with the same person for some time and they have earned your friendship, a small gift might be appropriate at holiday time or as a bonus after several months on the job.
Do I Tip Weekly or Monthly?
Some people will continue to tip their cleaner weekly, but others prefer to wait until the end of each month and tip then.
If you’re unsure which is best for you, ask your cleaner what they prefer.
Also consider if the same person is coming each week or if they are new, then you may want to tip weekly.
How Much Should I Tip My House Cleaner?
Estimates suggest that the typical weekly tip is around $20.
While you are free to give whatever amount you’d like, this estimate should help you find an affordable but meaningful amount to tip your cleaner or cleaning lady.
As usual, the best way to determine what type of tip to give and how much should be according to your own budget and experiences.
If you do choose to use this as a guideline, then start with a small tip and increase it if the service is outstanding.
How much should you tip multiple house cleaners?
If you have multiple house cleaners, then you should tip each of them according to the services that they provided.
For example:
House Cleaner 1: $15 for a single visit and $30 for a biweekly service.
House Cleaner 2: $20 for a single visit and $40 for a biweekly service.
In this case, you would tip House Cleaner 1 $15 and House Cleaner 2 $20 at the end of their regular sessions or as part of your monthly tips.
When to Tip More?
There are many reasons why you may wish to tip more than the average amount.
This could include:
- The cleaner was particularly thorough.
- Your house was particularly messy before they arrived.
- You were especially specific about what needed cleaning and the results were better than expected.
Regardless of your reason, if your cleaner deserves an above-average tip, then give it to them!
Can I Tip in Gift Cards?
Yes, you can tip in gift cards.
Gift cards are always appreciated for their convenience. However, keep in mind that your house cleaner will often prefer cash tips because they can use the money to purchase items that you don’t provide such as trash bags, laundry detergent, and other cleaning supplies.
How Much Do You Tip House Cleaners for a Deep Clean?
Deep cleanings involve a lot more than a weekly visit. Couches will be moved as well as appliances. Ovens and sinks will be cleaned and windows will receive a more thorough treatment.
So when you consider the work involved to “deep clean” and the bigger tip is expected and appreciated.
A minimum of $30 is recommended per cleaner, but if they are working hard you may want to consider tipping more depending on what you think they deserve.
When in doubt err on the side of generosity. You can always offer less, but never give more than you feel comfortable with!
How Much Do You Tip A Cleaning Lady At Christmas?
The holidays are an exception to the one-week rule.
Your cleaning lady deserves a tip after every visit, but the holidays are an especially good time to show your appreciation for their hard work and dedication during such a busy (and expensive) time of year.
Some employers offer Christmas bonuses or tips to house cleaners before the year ends.
An average Christmas tip is typical $50.
You may also include a small gift or gift card as well.
Final Thoughts
Paying your house cleaner a tip is one of the most basic and simplest ways to show appreciation. However, it can be difficult to know if you’re tipping too much or not enough.
The following tips should help:
- Always ask what they prefer before choosing between weekly or monthly tips
- If possible, try to give them cash so that they have more freedom in purchasing items for their job
- When in doubt err on the side of generosity!
Giving an above-average tip will always be appreciated and remembered by your cleaner who might just remember you when cleaning time rolls around next year.
Whatever amount you choose, make sure that it’s something meaningful and affordable according to your own budget and experiences with this person/service overall.
