Do I Need a Cleaner or a Housekeeper: What’s the Difference?

You’re looking for some help around the house but you’re not quite sure what you need. You definitely need cleaning, but you also have a few other tasks you’d like help with. Maybe someone to do the laundry, some shopping, childcare, meal prep and other bits and bobs, too. Do you just ask your cleaner to do it, or do you actually need a housekeeper?

Below, we’ll dig into the key differences between the two professions and help you figure out which one will best meet your needs.

1. Tasks

What does a cleaner do?

A cleaner’s tasks are typically limited to the core duties that keep your home looking spick and span, such as:

• Vacuuming and mopping floors

• Dusting surfaces

• Wiping down kitchen counters and appliances

• Cleaning bathrooms and toilets

• Polishing mirrors and windows

• Possibly some “light” tidying (like putting cushions back in place)

That said, the lines can blur a bit when it comes to minor tasks like loading a dishwasher or laundering towels or linens. Generally, though, if it involves scrubbing, polishing, or wiping, it’s in a cleaner’s wheelhouse.

And what about a housekeeper?

A housekeeper’s role is much more varied. While cleaning is certainly part of the job, it usually won’t make up more than about half of their responsibilities. Housekeepers are often asked to take on tasks like:

• Tidying and organizing living spaces

• Changing bed linens

• Doing laundry and folding clothes

• Running errands (grocery shopping, post office trips, etc.)

• Preparing or cooking simple meals

• Basic childcare or pet care (if required)

In a nutshell, a housekeeper is there to help with a broader spectrum of tasks that contribute to the general running of the household, not just the cleaning.

2. Level of Supervision

Cleaner

A cleaner generally has lower involvement with the family or employer. You’ll have an initial discussion about what needs to be done, how often, and any particular instructions. After that, communication usually revolves around scheduling and feedback—things like whether you want them to do a deep clean next time, or if you need something done a different way. Other than that, there’s not a whole lot of day-to-day, or week-to-week interaction.

Housekeeper

In contrast, a housekeeper often has a higher level of interaction. Because their responsibilities are more varied—sometimes involving childcare, cooking, and errands—they tend to integrate more closely into daily family life. That means stronger communication skills are usually a must, as well as the ability to handle last-minute changes or special requests (like preparing a guest room when unexpected visitors drop by).

3. Hours and Frequency

Cleaner

Cleaners often come in once or twice a week—or even once every couple of weeks—depending on your household’s needs. These visits might range from a quick two-hour clean to a more thorough half-day job for deep cleans. You’ll typically pay them for the set hours they work, and they’ll focus on their primary cleaning tasks.

Housekeeper

Because a housekeeper’s tasks are more varied, they may be needed more frequently and for longer shifts. Some families only need a housekeeper for a few hours a week, whereas others prefer daily support—particularly if childcare or meal preparation is part of the arrangement. The schedule can be quite varied, often including weekends or split shifts if the family has unique needs.

4. Skills

Cleaner

A cleaner’s skill set is primarily about knowing the best methods and tools to get a home spotless. They tend to be well-versed in:

• Different cleaning products and when to use them

• Stain removal techniques

• Deep cleaning methods (e.g., steam-cleaning carpets, descaling appliances)

• Using specialized equipment like floor polishers or power washers

Housekeeper

A housekeeper, on the other hand, has a broader array of skills. They might be specifically hired for their cooking expertise or their knack for organization. Some housekeepers also bring childcare qualifications, while others might be adept at managing household budgets or even helping with party planning. Time management and multitasking are key: they need to juggle various tasks throughout the day.

5. Which One is Right for You?

• Go for a cleaner if:

• You primarily need help maintaining a clean home and don’t require extra services like cooking, childcare, or errand-running.

• You only need help for a few hours a week.

• Your main focus is on keeping surfaces sparkling rather than delegating other household duties.

• Opt for a housekeeper if:

• You want someone who can not only keep your home clean but also handle tasks like laundry, bed-making, meal prep, or grocery runs.

• You need a more consistent and involved presence in your home, possibly with family interaction.

• You’re looking for additional help with organizing and managing the household routine.

Conclusion

Deciding whether you need a cleaner or a housekeeper ultimately comes down to the scope of work you’d like covered. If your priority is a pristine living space, a cleaner can typically handle that. Although some cleaners might consider extra tasks, and it’s worth asking, if it’s well beyond their scope you may be better off with a housekeeper. But if you’re juggling chores, errands, and possibly a busy family schedule, a housekeeper can offer more extensive support and free up your time for the things you enjoy.

Whichever option you choose, make sure to have a clear conversation upfront about tasks, scheduling, and expectations. That way, you and your new helper—be it a dedicated cleaner or a multi-talented housekeeper—can start off on the right foot (and hopefully keep those floors sparkling, too!).