housekeeper

A housekeeper is a worker responsible for cleaning and maintaining a residence or establishment. In private households, a housekeeper may be hired directly by a family or through an agency; in commercial settings, housekeeping staff work as part of a department within hotels, hospitals, or office buildings. The role focuses on keeping environments orderly, sanitary, and well-supplied, and duties can vary widely depending on the contract and setting.

Common duties include cleaning surfaces, vacuuming and dusting, laundry and ironing, making beds, washing dishes, restocking supplies, and coordinating with other staff. In hotels, housekeepers clean guest rooms, change linens, replenish amenities, and report maintenance issues. In hospitals or elder care facilities, tasks may include sanitation protocols and adherence to safety standards, with additional attention to infection control and patient privacy. Some household roles include basic cooking or child care, depending on the agreement.

Employment arrangements range from live-in to live-out, full-time to part-time, and can be privately contracted or agency-sponsored. Working hours often involve early mornings, evenings, weekends, or holidays, and duties can be physically demanding.

Training is typically on the job, though some regions offer formal courses or certifications in housekeeping, cleaning science, or hospitality management. Safety considerations include using cleaning chemicals properly, ergonomics, and respecting client privacy and confidentiality. Professional standards vary by country, but the role is generally guided by local labor laws and industry guidelines.