How Much to Tip A House cleaner?
Updated 2026-05-23 · 2026 U.S. tipping standard
Tip a house cleaner 15–20% of the visit cost, or $10–$20 per cleaner on a flat-fee job. Tip more for a first-time deep clean, post-party cleanup, move-in/move-out cleans, and during the holidays. If you use a service, leave cash labeled "For the cleaner" — many agencies do not pass tips on the invoice through quickly.
Tip calculator
U.S. norm is to tip on the pre-tax subtotal.
Advanced — tip on pre-tax amount
- Tip
- $0.00
- Bill (tipped on)
- $0.00
- Each person
- $0.00
- Each tip share
- $0.00
Enter a bill amount above to calculate.
What's normal for house cleaner?
- Standard recurring visit: 15–20% of the cost or $10–$20 per cleaner.
- First-time deep clean: 20% — these jobs are physically much harder.
- Move-in / move-out clean: 20–25%.
- Holiday bonus: one full cleaning visit's value is a generous norm.
When to tip more
- Pets or kids made the job significantly harder.
- Cleaner brought their own supplies.
- Last-minute or rush booking.
When a smaller tip is reasonable
- Surfaces were visibly skipped or done carelessly.
- Items were broken without acknowledgement.
Worked example
On a $150 house cleaner bill at the standard 20%, the calculator above shows the exact tip and total — adjust the bill or percent to match your own situation, and split it among multiple people using the stepper.
House cleaner tipping FAQ
Do I tip an independent cleaner the same as one from an agency?
Independent cleaners who set their own rate get tipped less often, but a holiday bonus is still standard. Agency cleaners should be tipped per visit.
Cash or app?
Cash for agency cleaners — the agency often holds card tips for weeks. Independent cleaners can be paid however they prefer.
Is a $20 tip per visit enough on a $150 cleaning?
That's about 13%. Bump it to $25–$30 to hit 17–20%.
Should I tip every visit?
Yes for weekly or biweekly cleans, or do a generous lump sum monthly. Don't only tip at the holidays.