Part-Time Helper Singapore: The Ultimate 2026 Guide

By KakiList Editorial Team · 4 Oct 2026 · 8 min read · Part-Time Helper

Waxing supplies are ready for use — Image credit: Anna Evans / Unsplash

TL;DR — The Shiok Summary

Part-time helpers in Singapore typically cost $18–$35/hour, with most households booking 3–4 hour sessions, 1–3 times a week. Agency-sourced helpers are safer but pricier (+$5–$10/hr commission-equivalent), while freelance helpers found via Facebook groups or word-of-mouth are cheaper but riskier. Always check for valid work pass status, references, and a trial session before committing. Red flags include no-shows, cash-only demands with no receipts, and reluctance to share ID. Scroll down for the full breakdown, or just Get free quotes from verified providers on KakiList and skip the research.

What Exactly Is a Part-Time Helper?

Unlike a live-in helper who stays with your family 24/7, a part-time helper (aka PT helper, hourly cleaner, or ad-hoc domestic helper) comes by for a few hours at a time — think of her like your personal pit crew for household chores. No need to furnish a room, no MOM levy headaches, and way more flexible if you're staying in a 3-room HDB in Toa Payoh or a condo in Punggol with zero spare space.

Most Singaporeans engage a part-time helper for:

General cleaning (mopping, toilets, wiping surfaces)
Laundry and ironing
Dishwashing and kitchen tidy-up
Light meal prep (less common, usually costs extra)
Post-renovation or spring cleaning before CNY

brown fabric sofa set — Image credit: Lotus Design N Print / Unsplash

How Much Does a Part-Time Helper Cost in Singapore (2026 Rates)

Here's the real talk on pricing — no bluffing, just what Singaporeans are actually paying right now:

Service Type	Rate Range (SGD)	Notes
Freelance (Facebook/word-of-mouth)	$18–$25/hr	Cheapest, but no agency backup if things go south
Agency-sourced part-time helper	$25–$35/hr	Vetted, insured, usually min. 3-hour booking
One-off deep clean / spring cleaning	$150–$400 per session	Depends on flat size — 4-room HDB vs 5-room condo
Post-reno cleaning	$250–$600	Usually needs 2 helpers + specialised tools

Pro tip: most helpers charge a minimum booking of 3 hours even if your flat is small — so it's more cost-efficient to bundle tasks (laundry + mopping + dishes) into one session rather than booking twice a week for 1 hour each.

What to Look For When Hiring

1. Verified Work Status

This is non-negotiable, jialat if you skip it. Make sure your helper has a valid Work Permit, is a Singaporean/PR doing legit freelance work, or is sourced through a licensed agency. Don't just take their word for it — ask to see documentation.