Hiring a house cleaner helps maintain a tidy and organized home, but when it comes to tipping, many people are unsure of the proper etiquette. While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s a great way to show appreciation for their hard work. So, how much should you tip house cleaners? This guide breaks down the best tipping practices based on service type, frequency, and industry standards.

Standard Tipping Rate for House Cleaners

The general rule of thumb for tipping house cleaners is 10% to 20% of the total cleaning cost. Here’s a quick breakdown:

By the Service Type

• One-time deep cleaning – Tip 15% to 20%
• Standard cleaning service – Tip 10% to 15%
• Move-in/move-out cleaning – Tip 15% to 20%
• Post-construction cleaning – Tip 20% or more

By the Total Cost

• $100 cleaning job – Tip $10 to $20
• $200 cleaning job – Tip $20 to $40
• $500+ cleaning job – Tip $50 to $100+

Factors That Affect How Much You Should Tip

When to Tip on the Higher End

Consider tipping more if:

• The cleaner performs an exceptionally thorough job.
• They handle a particularly messy or difficult task.
• The service is last-minute or outside normal business hours.
• The cleaner goes above and beyond, such as organizing or deep-cleaning neglected areas.

When to Tip on the Lower End (or Not at All)

You may tip less or not at all if:

• The cleaning was subpar or rushed.
• The cleaner was unprofessional or inattentive.
• You already pay a high service fee that includes gratuity.

Best Ways to Tip House Cleaners

• Cash is preferred – It ensures the cleaner receives the full amount directly.
• Include it in the payment – If paying by card or app, confirm that the tip goes to the cleaner.
• Consider holiday bonuses – For regular cleaners, a larger tip or holiday bonus (equivalent to one cleaning session) is a great way to show appreciation.

Do You Tip House Cleaners from a Cleaning Company?

If your house cleaner works for a cleaning company, check their policy on tips. Some companies include gratuity in their rates, while others encourage tipping. When in doubt, tipping 10% to 15% is a safe bet.

Final Thoughts

Tipping house cleaners is a great way to recognize their hard work and dedication. Stick to 10% to 20% of the total cost, tipping more for exceptional service or difficult tasks. If you have a regular cleaner, consider a holiday bonus to show your appreciation!

Want more tipping advice? Check out our other gratuity guides for service professionals!