Hiring a professional housekeeper is becoming increasingly common among VIP families across the UK. Whether a household is based in London, Surrey, Manchester, or Edinburgh, the expectations for a high-level housekeeper remain similar: reliability, discretion, consistency, and excellent attention to detail. At Fully Staffed, we help families find experienced housekeepers who understand the standards required in private homes.
Below is a clear guide to the essential duties, responsibilities, and skills VIP families typically expect from a professional housekeeper.
1. Daily Cleaning and Maintenance
A VIP housekeeper is responsible for maintaining a clean, organised, and welcoming environment at all times. This usually includes:
- Daily cleaning of all living areas
- Dusting, polishing, and vacuuming
- Bathroom hygiene and refresh
- Keeping floors spotless
- Changing bins and recycling
High-end homes often contain delicate items that require specialist care. An experienced housekeeper will know how to work with:
- Marble
- Wood flooring
- Antique furniture
- Luxury décor
- Art pieces
2. Laundry, Wardrobe Care, and Fabric Management
One of the key skills VIP families value is professional laundry and wardrobe management.
This includes:
- Washing clothes according to fabric type
- Ironing, steaming, and pressing
- Folding or hanging items properly
- Wardrobe organisation (seasonal rotation, outfit preparation)
- Knowing how to care for luxury and designer clothing
- Handling silk, wool, cashmere, linen, and delicate fabrics
- Ensuring children’s clothing is always clean and ready
A high-level housekeeper often manages the family’s wardrobe more carefully than the owners themselves.
3. Kitchen Support and Meal Assistance
While a housekeeper is not a chef, VIP homes often require:
- Light meal preparation
- Chopping, basic cooking, or assisting the chef
- Keeping the kitchen perfectly clean after meals
- Organising the pantry and fridge
- Following hygiene and food-safety standards
Some families also appreciate help with cooking simple, healthy meals for children.
4. Household Organisation and Stock Management
VIP families expect the housekeeper to keep the home running smoothly by:
- Monitoring household supplies
- Ordering cleaning products and groceries
- Keeping track of toiletries, towels, and linens
- Maintaining storage areas
- Ensuring everything is neatly organised and in its place
A good housekeeper doesn’t wait to be told — they anticipate what the home needs.
5. Child-Related Support (Non-Nanny Duties)
Many VIP households hire both a nanny and a housekeeper, but the housekeeper still supports with:
- Cleaning children’s rooms and play areas
- Washing children’s clothes
- Sterilising bottles (if needed)
- Organising toys
- Keeping the nursery tidy
This support allows parents and nannies to focus on childcare rather than house tasks.
6. Pet Care (Depending on the Household)
Some VIP families expect their housekeeper to help with pets:
- Feeding
- Brushing
- Cleaning pet areas
- Occasional dog walking
This is not always required, but it is common in large UK households.
7. Discretion, Confidentiality, and Professionalism
VIP families value privacy above everything.
A professional housekeeper must:
- Maintain strict confidentiality
- Respect personal boundaries
- Be discreet about family routines
- Show reliability and punctuality
- Work to a high standard every day
This makes them not just staff, but a trusted part of the household.
8. Additional Duties in Larger Properties
In luxury homes, housekeepers may also handle:
- Silver polishing
- Fine china care
- Running errands
- Managing deliveries
- Overseeing contractors (plumbers, electricians)
- Assisting during events or dinners
This requires strong organisational skills and the ability to multitask.
Conclusion: What VIP Families Expect From a Professional Housekeeper
Families hiring through Fully Staffed are looking for more than basic cleaning. They expect:
- Exceptional standards
- Strong fabric and wardrobe knowledge
- Total organisation
- Discretion
- Reliability
- A proactive approach
A VIP housekeeper helps the entire household run smoothly — making daily life easier, cleaner, and more organised.
If your family is looking for a professional housekeeper in the UK, Fully Staffed is here to match you with experienced and trusted candidates.
