Maid/Housekeeper/Cleaning Lady...how much to pay

devorahrivka

Thu, Mar 12 2009, 3:24 pm

What is the average cost of a maid?

I live in GA outside of Atlanta (2 hours outside) and have a 4 bedroom 2 bathroom 3000 square foot home.

We will be adopting a baby as soon as it is born in April and have a 10 year old and 7 year old both girls who I homeschool. I also have 3 dogs.

I need help! The week gets away from me and Thursdays are always a rush to clean and cook and get ready for shabbat...with a new baby it will be even worse.

I have had a hard time with cleaning help in the past. They only stay an hour MAX, charge an arm and a leg, and the house never seems clean. I want someone to come for the whole day, at least 2 times a week. I want them to do laundry, change the bedding, pick up around the house if I miss something, and do a REAL cleaning. The only thing I don't want them to do it cook (the odds of a maid who understand or has even heard the word "kosher" in this area is slim). I'd even provide lunch for them if they wanted...

So now that you have the info...I thought I'd go to the staffing agency in town and request such a person but I need to know what to offer in terms of pay. With the economy as it is, and so many people out of work, and this being a small town with little employment available (the big draw to this area is the "resort" amenities but many of these places have let go of the bulk of their workers) I thought $10 hour would be a good place to start but I know I am requesting a lot, so maybe more? Input is greatly appreciated Smile

Raisin

Thu, Mar 12 2009, 5:21 pm

advertise on something like craigslist. I needed a babysitter and I advertised on a parenting board for a girl to help with cleaning and babysitting. $10 an hours sounds ok, but I don't live where you do and I don't know the cost of living. they may be happier to take less if they are coming for a good few hours. agencies may be more expensive.

I recommend having someone come for at least 3 hours, mondays, tuesdays, and wednesdays. that way the mess doesn't pile up.