How Much Should I Tip My Housekeeper for Christmas?

Your housekeeper performs personal services for you.

Tip One Week to One Month of Pay

Etiquette gurus at the Emily Post Institute recommend you tip a live-in housekeeper "one week to one month of pay as a cash tip, plus a gift from you." For a housekeeper who does not live with you, "Up to the amount of one week's pay and/or a small gift" is appropriate. Neverthless, the Institute says, "You shouldn't feel obligated to go beyond your personal budget" and any tip should be "accompanied by a short handwritten note of appreciation."

Tips Are Not Expected Or Required.

According to the Association of Residential Cleaning Services International, housekeeper tips are not expected, but they are not unusual either. Their suggestion: "Never feel like you have to tip, and never tip in hopes of receiving better service! Only tip if you feel you are receiving great service."

Bottom Line

Determine the common practice in your area, as well as your relationship with and appreciation for your housekeeper, when deciding whether to tip, and act accordingly. You can also contact the housekeeping agency, if applicable, and ask what is standard or customary for its services.

References

• Emily Post: Holiday Tipping Is Really Holiday Thanking
• Toghers: Hiring A Housekeeper