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We get asked a lot by parents hiring their first nanny if it’s fair to expect that their nanny do housework, cook, and clean. It seems as if most parents believe that, especially during downtime like naps, the nanny take care of some various other tasks throughout the house.

On the other side, many nannies express that they do not normally actively clean or complete chores around the house. The one exception most clarified on was that they do typically complete cleaning, cooking or chores as they relate directly to the child they are caring for.

So what is the most common deal between parents and nanny?

A nanny is most commonly going to care for everything related to your child. This will commonly include cooking their meals and cleaning up after the child’s messes. But it is NOT common for a nanny to take care of other assorted chores and housework. You should not necessarily expect a meal cooked for you, or for your house to be sparkly clean when you come home.

Is it rude to ask my nanny to do chores around the house?

Rude, no. Most nannies have been asked this before. But don’t be surprised if your nanny has a higher hourly rate to take care of these extra tasks. For example, the nanny might have a flat rate of $15 dollars an hour for child-related care, but if you want extra chores done or have special tasks you need complete, that number will probably jump anywhere between $5-$15 dollars an hour depending on the tasks.

How can I find a nanny who is willing to cook and clean?

Your best bet is going to be interviewing several childcare professionals and being upfront about your desires. Our suggestion is to make it less of a list of demands, and instead ask your prospective nannies first if they’re willing to take on extra tasks, list those extra tasks, and then ask for an hourly rate they would accept for such tasks.

Again, to reiterate, it is vitally important to set these expectations early and clearly. Make it painfully obvious that your expectations are to have extra cleaning and cooking done, and that you’re willing to pay extra for these services.

Here are some more things to keep in mind:

  • Your nanny is going to be busy with your kids during the day. As you know yourself, it’s hard to complete both chores as well as keep a watchful eye on children.
  • Consider hiring a house cleaner on top of your nanny. For example, if you hire a house cleaner to come in a few hours a week, it might end up being cheaper than paying a nanny a higher hourly wage.
  • Get expectations clearly outlined in your contract. You need to be able to agree to the terms, and it is vitally important to get these expectations outlined in writing.

If you’re looking for a nanny for the first time, it can be a daunting task. Check out our nanny search tool to find a childcare professional in your area here.