GETTA Help

Cleaner vs housekeeper: what is the difference?

A cleaner usually focuses on cleaning tasks, while a housekeeper may take wider responsibility for the running of a home. Titles vary, so the written task list matters more than the label.

Typical cleaning scope

Cleaning work often centres on bathrooms, kitchens, dusting, vacuuming and floors during a defined visit. Laundry, shopping, cooking, organising and errands are not automatically included.

Broader household support

Housekeeping can include cleaning alongside laundry, linen changes, tidying, household organisation or other agreed routines. It is often more frequent or ongoing, but each provider defines the service differently.

Choose by tasks and frequency

List essential tasks and how often each is needed.
Separate cleaning from childcare, care work, pet care or property management.
Decide whether you need a fixed visit or broader ongoing responsibility.
Clarify products, equipment, keys, expenses and decision-making authority.

Write a clear brief

Use a room-and-task list, expected frequency, approximate time, access arrangements and priorities. Ask the provider to confirm what they do not offer. Review the scope and price if responsibilities grow.