Part-time cleaners in Singapore

A part-time cleaner in Singapore usually works by the hour on a weekly or fortnightly schedule, with a minimum number of hours per visit. Before booking, decide which rooms and tasks matter most, check the minimum session length and confirm whether the same cleaner will return each time.

How part-time cleaning works

Part-time cleaning is regular upkeep rather than a one-off deep clean. A cleaner visits on an agreed day, works through a task list and leaves. Most companies sell it by the hour, often with a minimum of a few hours per visit and sometimes a minimum number of visits per month or per package.

The arrangement suits households that want help with routine chores but not a live-in helper. It is different from employing a foreign domestic worker, which has its own rules and obligations. With a cleaning company, the company employs the cleaner and you book a service.

What to include in your task list

A clear list is the single most useful thing you can give a cleaner. It sets expectations, helps the company estimate hours and makes it easier to raise concerns later. Keep it practical and ranked by priority, because a few hours rarely covers everything.

• Sweeping, mopping and vacuuming of named rooms.
• Wiping kitchen counters, the stove top and the sink.
• Cleaning toilets, basins, showers and mirrors.
• Dusting reachable surfaces and furniture.
• Changing bed sheets, if you leave fresh linen out.
• Laundry or ironing, only if the company offers it.
• Taking out rubbish to the chute or bin centre.

Mention anything that needs special care, such as marble, timber floors or delicate items. Tell the company about pets, and say whether the cleaner should use your products and equipment or bring their own. Many companies expect you to supply basic supplies, so confirm this before the first visit.

How many hours do you need?

The right session length depends on the size of the home, how much clutter there is and what you include. Companies often suggest a minimum based on flat type, such as more hours for a five-room HDB than a three-room flat. Ask what the company would recommend for your home and task list, and adjust after the first few visits.

If the cleaner regularly runs out of time, shorten the list or add an hour rather than expecting faster work. Deep tasks such as cleaning inside the oven, scrubbing grout or washing windows are better handled as separate jobs. The deep and spring cleaning guide explains how those are usually priced.

Comparing hourly rates

Hourly rates vary with the company, the session length and the commitment. A rate that looks low may come with a higher minimum, a longer contract or extra charges for weekends and public holidays. A higher rate may include supplies or a guaranteed regular cleaner.

The published rates below come from company websites in the HomezyPro directory. Each is the lowest matching per-hour rate a company advertised, with its source and capture date. Check the source for the minimum hours, the number of visits and GST before comparing.

• Is there a minimum number of hours per visit?
• Is there a minimum number of visits or a contract period?
• Do weekend, evening or public holiday visits cost more?
• Are cleaning products and equipment included?
• Is GST included in the hourly rate?

Same cleaner, replacements and trust

Many households care most about having the same cleaner each week. Ask whether the company assigns a regular cleaner and what happens when that person is on leave or unwell. A good company tells you in advance and sends a replacement who has your task list.

Decide how the cleaner will enter your home. If you hand over a key or share a door code, ask how the company handles keys and what happens if one is lost. Put valuables away and agree which areas are out of bounds.

Ask how the company handles breakages and complaints. Some carry insurance for accidental damage; if this matters to you, ask for the details in writing. Domestic cleaning is listed among the activities excluded from NEA's cleaning business licence, so do not rely on a licence alone as a sign of quality.

Booking and the first visit

For the first visit, be home if you can. Walk the cleaner through the task list, show where supplies are and point out anything fragile. Agree how you will give feedback, whether by message to the cleaner or through the company.

After two or three visits, review what is working. Adjust the list, the hours or the schedule. If the arrangement still does not suit you, check the notice period in the agreement before switching companies.

Use the home cleaning directory to compare companies that publish part-time or regular cleaning. Each profile links to the company's own pages for services and prices.

Part-time cleaner questions

How much does a part-time cleaner cost per hour in Singapore?

Rates depend on the company, session length and commitment. The table on this page lists the lowest per-hour rates that directory companies publish, with sources. Check each source for minimum hours, visit requirements and GST before comparing.

What is the difference between a part-time cleaner and a maid?

A part-time cleaner is provided by a cleaning company that employs the cleaner and sends them for agreed sessions. Employing a live-in domestic worker is a different arrangement with its own responsibilities. This guide covers booking a cleaning company.

Do I need to provide cleaning supplies?

Often, yes. Many companies expect the household to supply products and equipment, while some bring their own or charge for it. Confirm what is included before the first visit so the cleaner can start straight away.

Can I get the same cleaner every week?

Many companies try to assign a regular cleaner, but it is not always guaranteed. Ask how the company handles leave, sickness and replacements, and whether you can request a change if the match does not work.