Domestic Worker Duties in Mumbai: What They Really Do and How to Hire Right

When you hire a domestic worker, a person hired to perform household tasks like cleaning, cooking, and childcare. Also known as househelp, it’s not just about having someone tidy up—it’s about building a reliable daily support system for your home. In Mumbai, these roles aren’t one-size-fits-all. A domestic worker might handle laundry one day, cook three meals the next, and watch your kids after school. Their duties depend on your needs, their experience, and what you agree on upfront.

Most domestic workers in Mumbai handle a mix of cleaning, tasks like sweeping, mopping, dusting, and washing dishes, cooking, preparing meals based on your family’s diet, from simple rotis to complex curries, and sometimes childcare, helping kids get ready for school, packing lunches, or supervising homework. Some also run errands—buying groceries, picking up dry cleaning, or paying utility bills. It’s not just physical work; it’s about trust. You’re letting someone into your home, your routine, even your family’s private space.

What you pay reflects what you ask for. A helper who only cleans might earn ₹11,500 a month. One who cooks daily and watches kids might make ₹18,000–₹22,000. The law doesn’t force you to pay more than minimum wage, but fair pay means fewer turnovers, better care, and less stress for you. Don’t assume they’ll do everything without clear instructions. Write down the tasks, set hours, and agree on days off. This isn’t just polite—it’s practical. People who feel respected stick around longer.

Many families in Mumbai don’t realize how much variety exists in these roles. Some helpers specialize—like those who only cook North Indian food, or those trained to handle elderly care. Others work part-time, coming in three days a week. There’s no single job description. The key is matching your household’s rhythm with the right person. You don’t need someone who does everything. You need someone who does what matters most to you.

Below, you’ll find real insights from families who’ve hired help in Mumbai. From salary expectations to daily task lists, you’ll see what works—and what doesn’t. No fluff. Just clear, practical details to help you hire smarter, pay fairly, and make your home run smoother.

What Does Domestic Help Include? A Clear Guide for Mumbai Households
What Does Domestic Help Include? A Clear Guide for Mumbai Households

Domestic help in Mumbai includes cleaning, laundry, cooking, childcare, and errands. Learn exactly what’s included, what’s not, and how to set clear expectations when hiring help.