So, you’ve finally decided to do it—you want a clean, well-managed home without constantly being the one scrubbing, mopping, and dusting. Whether it’s because you have a busy career, young children, or simply want more time for yourself, hiring a professional housekeeper can be a game changer. But, just like finding a trustworthy nanny, getting the right person to come into your home can feel overwhelming.

Having worked with many households and domestic staff over the years, I’ve seen how challenging the hiring process can be—especially when you’re not sure where to start or what to look for. This guide will walk you through the key steps to hiring a housekeeper in Kenya, from finding good referrals to knowing what questions to ask during interviews.

1. Ask for Referrals from Friends and Family

Word-of-mouth is still one of the most reliable ways to find a trustworthy housekeeper in Kenya. Start by asking your friends, neighbours, and family members if they know someone they would recommend. When you get a referral, go beyond just getting a name—ask about their work ethic, reliability, trustworthiness, and how long they’ve worked for that household.

If you’re in a community group or estate WhatsApp group, put the word out there. In many cases, housekeepers come highly recommended from other employers, saving you the stress of starting your search from scratch.

2. Search Online and Check Reviews

If you don’t get referrals through your personal network, consider looking online. There are now domestic staffing agencies and platforms in Kenya that connect households with trained and vetted housekeepers. Always check for reviews, testimonials, and an online presence—whether it’s a website, Facebook page, or listings on service platforms.

An online profile with clear information about experience, skills, and references can give you a good sense of professionalism.

3. Decide What You Need Done

Before you start interviewing, make a list of the tasks you expect the housekeeper to do. Will they only handle cleaning, or will they also do laundry, ironing, cooking, or shopping? Will they care for children or pets?

Think about how often you want the service—full-time live-in, daily visits, or a few times a week. Being specific about your needs will make it easier to find the right match and set clear expectations from the beginning.

4. Large Agency vs. Independent Housekeeper

You might be wondering if you should hire through a large cleaning agency, a small local company, or an individual. Each has its pros and cons.

• Agencies often have trained staff and can send replacements if your housekeeper is unavailable. However, they might cost more and send different people at different times.
• Independent housekeepers can be more affordable and flexible, and you can build a consistent working relationship with them. The trade-off is that you may need to handle background checks and replacements yourself.

5. Housekeeping vs. Cleaning

Understand the difference between a house cleaner and a housekeeper. A cleaner focuses mainly on cleaning tasks—mopping floors, dusting surfaces, scrubbing bathrooms. A housekeeper takes on a wider role, including laundry, meal prep, organizing, running errands, and sometimes even assisting with childcare. Decide which role you need before hiring.

6. Always Get an Estimate

Many professionals will visit your home to give a free quote before starting. This is your chance to discuss your needs, agree on scope of work, set a schedule, and get an idea of the cost.

Some housekeepers charge per job, while others charge by the hour. In Kenya, rates vary widely depending on the tasks, location, and whether the role is live-in or live-out.

7. Insurance and Security

Where possible, hire someone who has been vetted or recommended through a trusted agency, especially if you’ll be leaving them alone in your home. In Kenya, formal insurance for domestic workers is rare, but agencies often have guarantees or background checks.

If hiring directly, request references from previous employers and follow up with phone calls. Trustworthiness is just as important as skill.

8. Important Interview Questions

When interviewing, here are some must-ask questions:

• What tasks do you usually handle?
• Do you work alone or with others?
• How do you charge—hourly, daily, or monthly?
• Do you bring your own cleaning supplies?
• Can you provide references from past employers?
• Have you had any formal housekeeping or hospitality training?
• Are you comfortable with children or pets?

9. Compare Prices and Quality

Don’t just go for the cheapest option. A very low rate may mean inexperience or lack of professionalism. Ask for at least three different quotes to get a sense of the market rate in your area. Remember—you are inviting someone into your home, so quality and trust come first.

10. Trust Your Instincts

Finally, listen to your gut. If something feels off during the interview or trial period, don’t ignore it. The right housekeeper should give you peace of mind, not extra stress. Look for someone who treats your home with care and respects your privacy.

Bottom line: Hiring the right housekeeper in Kenya takes time, but with clear expectations, proper vetting, and good communication, you can find someone who helps your home run smoothly while giving you back your time and energy.