What does a housekeeper do?

The role of a housekeeper is varied and essentially depends on the personal requirements of their employer. While a housekeeper is generally responsible for basic tasks such as cleaning, responsibilities can extend beyond this, especially in larger residences such as care homes, university halls or stately homes, where they may also take on administrative tasks too. In these settings, housekeepers might supervise other staff such as cleaners and cooks.

Housekeeper skills and qualifications

A successful housekeeper candidate typically possesses the following skills and qualifications:

• Attention-to-detail in cleaning processes
• Strong interpersonal skills especially if they are responsible for looking after children
• Proficiency in deep cleaning or cleaning techniques for fabric, wood and metal furnishings
• Inspecting rooms and ensuring that they are highly presentable
  
• Knowledge of household safety protocols, including fire exit locations and hazard prevention (e.g., keeping stairs free of clutter)
• Inventory and supply management for cleaning products and household essentials
• Ability to work well as part of a team, if required in a larger household setting
• Time management skills and the ability to organise a work schedule

Housekeeper experience requirements

Previous experience in a similar role such as cleaning in a hotel or residential home may be preferred. Employers may also request positive references, demonstrating that previous clients were satisfied with their work. When describing a housekeeper’s experience requirements, it is important to consider the most critical aspects of the role. For example, if the position involves specialist cleaning methods, such as handling delicate fabrics or antique furniture, prior experience in these areas may be essential.

Housekeeper education and training requirements

Housekeepers do not typically require any formal education or training, however, they may have completed some training to refine the skills required to succeed in this type of role. This could include qualifications such as a Level 2 Award, Certificate or Diploma in Cleaning and Support Services Skills, Level 2 Diploma in Housekeeping Services, Level 2 in Hospitality and Catering Principles (Housekeeping), or A Level 2 Certificate in Hospitality Industry Skills (Housekeeping).

Housekeeper salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Housekeeper is £29,343 per year. Salary may be dependent on experience, location and company.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this is not quite the position you’re looking for, other similar job descriptions include:

• Cleaner
• Home Cleaner
• Handyperson
• Babysitter

Housekeeper job description FAQs

Do housekeepers need a DBS check?

If the role requires working with children, candidates might need to go through a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Consider adding ‘DBS check required’ to a job description if working with children or vulnerable adults is part of the job. However, since childcare is not typically part of a housekeeper’s responsibilities, employers looking for someone to provide both cleaning and care duties may want to specify the role as a ‘Carer Housekeeper’ instead.

What is the difference between a Housekeeper and a Cleaning Professional?

While both housekeepers and cleaning professionals provide cleaning services, housekeepers often take on broader household responsibilities. Their duties may extend beyond cleaning to include managing household operations and even supervising cleaning staff in larger residences. Generally, a cleaning professional focuses solely on cleaning tasks.

What tasks are housekeepers typically not responsible for?

In general, Housekeepers are not responsible for heavy lifting or physically intensive tasks as these may pose safety risks in a private household. Employers requiring heavy lifting may need to hire a labourer or a similar worker. Additionally, housekeepers are usually expected to maintain strict confidentiality and avoid disclosing personal or household information about their employer.

What responsibilities does a Care Home Housekeeper have?

A Care Home Housekeeper may have a broader range of responsibilities compared to a standard housekeeper. Their duties often include cleaning communal care home areas, maintaining hygiene and infection control standards, assisting with basic patient care tasks (depending on the role) and working alongside nurses and other healthcare professionals.