Employing a foreign domestic worker or FWD has been a common practice among many Singaporeans for decades. However, with the rising costs of living in our country, a growing number of households in Singapore hire part-time maids instead. 

These helpers are far more affordable, as you typically just pay for the amount of time they work for you — which could be just for several hours each week or month. You don’t have to budget so much on their monthly salaries and other employee benefits. 

But how do you know if it’s the right time to enlist their help? Before we talk about signs that will tell you so, let’s first discuss if a part-timer’s services are truly what your household needs. 

What Services Can Part-time Maids Do?

In general, a part-time helper assists with various household chores during the hours they work for you. These are mostly centred around cleaning, such as:

• Sweeping and mopping the floor

• Vacuuming carpets and rugs

• Dusting and wiping down shelves and counters

• Washing and ironing clothes 

• Changing the bed linens

• Washing dishes 

• Decluttering and reorganising your spaces

Regular part-time maids in Singapore typically don’t offer services like cooking, childcare, or pet-sitting unless specified otherwise. 

Signs You Should Consider Hiring One

Convinced you need to hire a part-timer now? If you relate to these signs, then it’s time to make that choice:

You Can’t Make Time for Deep Cleaning

With how fast-pace life can be in Singapore, we often have little room in our schedule to give our homes a more thorough cleaning session. But with a part-time maid, you’ll have someone who can do that for you — even if it’s just a few times each month. 

Your Home’s Always a Mess

Can’t seem to keep your home as organised as you’d like? The maid can help get things back in order with each scheduled visit. 

Allergies and Health Issues Keep You From Cleaning

If you can’t clean your home as effectively because you’re sensitive to dust and other common indoor allergens, you can book a part-time cleaner to give the place a deeper clean. They can get rid of the contaminants causing trouble while you’re away. 

You Have a Big Life Event Coming Up

Cleaning up can be overwhelming to do by yourselves if you’ve had life changes like a baby or a new job. Getting a maid even just to help you for a short while can be the support you need to make it through these transitions. 

You Really Just Abhor Cleaning Chores 

Sometimes we just have to admit to ourselves that cleaning isn’t our forte. So don’t be shy about hiring someone who can do it for you!

Avoid the Hassle — Hiring from a Cleaning Service

Trying to look for a part-time maid in Singapore can be difficult if you’re only searching for direct hires. This is especially because you can’t hire someone else’s full-time maid to work for you part-time. 

You could save yourself the trouble by approaching a reputable cleaning company instead. Professional companies generally screen and train their staff to maintain high standards of cleanliness in the homes they serve. This often means using advanced cleaning methods and equipment. 

If you do need extra help, such as with caring for an elderly parent, you could search for a company listed under the Household Services Scheme. These agencies provide services besides house cleaning, like cooking and even car washing. 

The Right Help Can Make Your Home Better 

For a fraction of the price of a full-time helper, a part-time maid can make your life in Singapore much less stressful. Just make sure to take your time searching for a cleaning agency you can trust. 

Once you’re ready, go ahead and book that cleaning service your residence sorely needs! Soon, you’ll find yourself with more peace of mind every time you come home.