When hiring a maid, families often expect help with cleaning, cooking, and managing household chores. One common question employers face is whether it is acceptable to ask their maid to do “top work” (cleaning high shelves, cupboards, fans, or other elevated areas) in addition to regular kitchen and household tasks. The answer depends on clarity, safety, and fairness.
1. Understanding “Top Work”
Top work generally refers to cleaning higher surfaces like:
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Cupboards and shelves
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Kitchen cabinets
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Ceiling fans, tube lights, or windows
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Storage areas above wardrobes
This work is often more tiring and sometimes unsafe if not handled properly, which is why it should be discussed openly.
2. Is It Reasonable to Expect Top Work?
Yes, but only if:
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It was discussed at the time of hiring and agreed upon by the maid.
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Proper tools like sturdy ladders or cleaning equipment are provided.
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The workload is fair, and the maid is not overloaded with too many extra tasks beyond her agreed duties.
3. Kitchen Work vs. Top Work
Kitchen duties such as dishwashing, cleaning slabs, cooking, or wiping shelves are usually part of a maid’s role. However, top work in the kitchen (like cleaning overhead cabinets or exhaust fans) should ideally be done occasionally, not daily, and with safety precautions.
4. Safety Comes First
Top work often requires climbing or stretching, which can be risky. Ensure your maid does not use unstable furniture or unsafe tools. Provide ladders, gloves, and a safe working environment.
5. Clear Communication is Key
Before assigning such tasks, clearly communicate what you expect. If the maid was not informed about top work earlier, discuss and agree on extra pay or adjust her workload fairly. Transparency avoids misunderstandings.
Conclusion
It is okay to ask your maid to do top work in the house and kitchen as long as it is safe, clearly discussed, and fairly compensated if it goes beyond her usual duties. Respecting boundaries and ensuring safety not only keeps your home clean but also maintains a positive and long-term work relationship.
At Bookmybai, we go through an extensive shortlisting process to make sure that the worker deployed at your home is a perfect choice for you. We have maids, cleaners, nanny, babysitter, cook, chef, patient caretaker, senior citizen caretaker available for you and your family whether you want a part time, full day or 24 hours live in maid. We do an elaborate background check to make sure that the person is not only reliable but also trusted.
If you have a requirement for a domestic helper for your family, you can be rest assured that we will give our 100% to make sure that your entire hiring process is hassle free.
We are not just a maid agency or a maid bureau near your house. We are your partners