Tipping Housekeeping: A Practical Guide
If you’ve ever stayed in a hotel, cottage or B&B, you’ve probably wondered whether you should tip the cleaning crew. The short answer is yes – a little extra goes a long way. In this guide we’ll cover when to tip, how much to tip, and why it’s good for both you and the staff.
When to Tip Housekeeping
Tip at the end of your stay, not every day. Most places expect a one‑time thank you rather than a daily hand‑out. If you’re checking out early in the morning, leave the tip in an envelope on the pillow or the desk with a note that says “Thank you.” For long stays of a week or more, a mid‑stay tip is a nice gesture, especially if the team has gone above and beyond.
How Much to Tip
In the UK, £1‑£2 per night is a solid baseline for a standard room. If you’re staying in a luxury suite or a boutique hotel, £3‑£5 per night feels fair. For a short two‑night stay, a total of £5‑£10 is a good rule of thumb. When you’re on a tighter budget, a single £5 note for a week‑long stay still shows appreciation.
Don’t forget to adjust for extra services. If the staff helped with a late‑night clean, delivered extra towels, or arranged a special request, add a little extra. A simple “Thank you for the great service” note with the tip makes the gesture feel personal.
Why Tipping Matters
Housekeeping staff don’t earn high wages, and tips often make up a big part of their income. A proper tip shows respect for their hard work and can lead to better service for you and future guests. It also helps build a positive relationship with the property, which can pay off if you become a repeat visitor.
Beyond money, a tip is a way of saying you noticed the clean rooms, fresh linens, and the little details that made your stay comfortable. That kind of acknowledgement boosts morale and encourages staff to keep up the good work.
Special Situations
If you’re staying in a self‑catering cottage or holiday home, the tip etiquette can be different. Some owners provide a cleaning fee in the booking price, so an extra tip isn’t necessary unless the staff went above the usual scope. When you’re on a group trip, consider pooling tips so each member gets the same amount of recognition.
Traveling with kids? Keep the tip envelope out of reach of little hands, and make sure the note is clear so the staff knows it’s a tip and not a lost item.
Quick Tip Checklist
• Leave a tip at checkout in an envelope.
• Aim for £1‑£2 per night for standard rooms.
• Increase to £3‑£5 for luxury stays.
• Add extra for special services.
• Write a short thank‑you note.
Following these simple steps makes tipping housekeeping easy and ensures you leave a positive impression. A small gesture can turn a good stay into a great one for both you and the people who keep the rooms spotless.
