Most Singaporeans have busy lives — so busy that they barely have time to keep their homes clean. So it’s not unusual to see many hire full-time maids to help them maintain a tidy residence. But did you know you can also hire part-time cleaners in Singapore? 

You'll need to determine which type of helper is the best fit for your household. Let’s discuss their advantages and disadvantages and how they affect your lifestyle and finances. 

Let’s Weigh the Pros and Cons of Full-Time Helpers

Full-time helpers are often called foreign domestic workers and live with their employers. They assist with chores such as cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, and caring for children and elderly family members.

When is Full-Time Help Preferable? 

• Comprehensive Assistance - Having a live-in helper can be particularly helpful if you have a larger household and need help with other tasks apart from cleaning the home. 

• More Convenience - You can have their help almost instantly whenever you need them since they live with you. 

Cons of Hiring Full-Time Maids

• Strict Employment Requirements - You should always make sure to comply with Singapore’s steps for hiring live-in helpers. These include the work permits and insurance coverage they need.

• More Expensive - You need sufficient funds to pay for their salary, levies, insurance premiums, and other costs. 

• Lack of Privacy - The maid will live with you at home, so you must be willing to sacrifice your household’s privacy in return for the convenience their help provides.

What About the Benefits and Drawbacks of Part-Time Cleaners?

Many companies here also operate under the Household Services Scheme, wherein they provide ad-hoc household services. These include providing part-time cleaners for Singapore homeowners. They don’t live with you at home but instead come by to clean for a few hours a week, month or whenever needed.

Pros of Having a Part-Time Cleaner

• Cost-Efficient - They’re typically more affordable than full-time helpers because you only pay them per hour. You have more freedom to decide when you need them to work for you. 

• You Have More Privacy - Since they’re cleaning for you only when you need them, you can enjoy more privacy at home. 

Cons of Having a Part-Time Cleaner

• Limited Availability - Scheduling last-minute cleanups can be challenging during peak periods. You may get charged extra for it. Some companies in Singapore that provide part-time cleaners have guidelines on how soon you can book their services on short notice. 

• Restricted Scope of Work - These cleaners only focus on cleaning tasks. You would need a different service provider if you also need help with other duties like childcare. 

• Additional Fees for Complex Tasks - Depending on the cleaner’s agency, complicated tasks such as carpet or upholstery washing may require higher rates than usual. 

Tips to Help You Choose the Right House Cleaning Service

The choice between full-time and part-time cleaners depends on your household’s needs. Here are some factors to guide your decision:

• How big is your home? If it’s too small to accommodate a live-in helper, then a part-time cleaner is a better compromise. 

• Your budget plays an important role. You might not be able to afford to pay monthly salaries, agency fees, and other costs related to having a full-time maid. 

• Consider how comfortable you are with having someone else sharing your space at home. 

• Assess yourself to see if you’re capable of doing many chores and simply need help cleaning your home thoroughly. 

Make Life Convenient With Reliable House Helpers

Whether you hire full-time maids or part-time cleaners in Singapore, what matters is that you can choose the right people for the job. Both types of helpers have their unique benefits, so always evaluate your needs carefully first. 

Don’t hesitate to consult a local cleaning agency if you’re interested in hiring helpers for your home. They can advise you on the best choice for your household so you can enjoy more peace of mind.