Host tips for cleaning service?

[Yvonne953]

Hello!

I am a fairly new host who has earned 100% 5 star ratings, along with superhost and "guest favorite" status.

I attribute much of this success to my cleaning service, whose work is consistently good and generates many comments from guests in their reviews. The service is expensive (the house is big) and is not fully subsidized by guest fees.

With the holidays approaching, I am considering offering a monetary tip to the cleaning service, as a gesture of appreciation for a job well done. 

I wonder if other hosts tip service providers, either routinely or on occasion. If so, what is your criteria, and on what factors do you base you decision about the tip amount?

Thank you.

[Alicia753]

Hi @Yvonne953,

Congratulations on your success as a host! Achieving 100% 5-star ratings, Superhost status, and being recognized as a "guest favorite" reflects your dedication and high standards. Your cleaning service clearly plays a significant role in maintaining those standards, and showing your appreciation through a tip is a thoughtful idea.

Tipping service providers like cleaning teams is a common practice among hosts, especially during the holiday season or after exceptional performance. Many hosts choose to tip during the holidays as a gesture of gratitude for consistent, high-quality work throughout the year. Others may offer a tip after the cleaning team handles an especially challenging task or accommodates a last-minute request.

The amount of the tip often depends on factors such as the size of the property, the scope of the work, and the number of people involved. A flat amount between $50 and $200 is typical, though some hosts calculate tips as a percentage of the cleaning fee, such as 10–20%. Personalized gifts or gift cards can also be meaningful alternatives to monetary tips, adding a personal touch to your gratitude.

Ultimately, your decision should align with your budget and the value you place on their contributions. Even a small token of appreciation can reinforce the partnership and encourage continued excellence in their work.

I hope this helps.

All the best,

Upfish Management

[Paula]

Hello @Yvonne953,

What a thoughtful gesture to involve your cleaning crew in such a meaningful way!

I'm reaching out to some fellow hosts to see if they’ve done something similar and how they managed it: @Steven1482 @Tim3904 @Nalin67 @Hilee0 @Damien591 @Amy3326 

Regards,

[Kim866]

A good cleaning service is absolutely invaluable!!!!!!   We pay ours extra for more difficult or time consuming jobs.  We also always give a Christmas gift of cash.  

We could not continue to be successful without the aid of a competent cleaner--they are essentially your partner in business and should be treated accordingly!