How Much Should You Tip a House Cleaner for Christmas?

Overview

Consider Your Regular Habits.

If you tip regularly at the time of service throughout the year, you may feel inclined to give your house cleaner a smaller bonus at Christmastime. This may be appropriate if you tip sufficiently throughout the year to consider your regular generosity an adequate demonstration of your appreciation.

A Good Time for Special Recognition.

Christmas is a great time, however, to give your house cleaner special recognition for the ongoing service she does for you. Considering the personal nature of that service--spending regular time in your home, cleaning up your messes--you may feel inclined to give an extra thank you at the holidays.

Bottom Line

Etiquette guru Emily Post recommends tipping your house cleaner up to the amount of one week’s pay and/or a small gift at Christmas time. However, it is also perfect acceptable to keep your regularly habits in mind: "If you tip at the time of service, you may forego an end of the year tip, or give a more modest holiday thank you."

References

• Emily Post: Holiday Tipping Is Really Holiday Thanking