Short answer: create a tip page in an app such as TipIns, print the QR code and put it on a "your home was cleaned by" card left on the kitchen counter. Customers scan it with their phone camera and tip by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. They do not need an app or an account.
You work in empty houses. The thank-you used to be a note on the counter, and now the client pays an agency by card and you never see them. Agency customers often cannot tip you even when they try.
How a QR code tip jar works
You create a tip page once and get a personal QR code and link. A customer points their phone camera at the code, a secure payment page opens in their browser, and they pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay or a card. The tip shows in your balance straight away and is paid out to your bank account.
Where house cleaners put the code
- On a "your home was cleaned by" card left on the kitchen counter.
- On the checklist you leave at the end of a job.
- In your "all finished" text message.
- On your invoice, if you work for yourself.
Size the code for the distance: a phone reads one from about ten times its width. The measurements are in how to make a tip jar QR code sign.
What to write on the sign
Your home was cleaned today by [name]. If you are happy, a tip is always appreciated. Scan here.
Put your own name where the brackets are. You can export a print-ready design from the app in business card, A5, A4 or A3 size.
How to mention it
In the finishing text: "All done. I left a card on the counter with my details."
Your own code or a shared one
A personal code if you work alone. A two or three person crew can use a group and split equally.
What customers usually tip a house cleaner
For a one-off or deep clean in the US, 15 to 20% is customary. For a regular cleaner, the custom is a holiday tip equal to one visit, with no tip expected each time.
| Situation | Usual tip |
|---|---|
| $160 one-off deep clean | $25 to $30 |
| Regular cleaner, each visit | Optional |
| Regular cleaner, December | The cost of one clean |
| Team sent by a company | $10 to $20 per cleaner |
Customers looking for the etiquette can read how to tip a house cleaner without cash.
What it costs
TipIns is free to download and has no monthly fee. Each tip carries a 10% platform fee plus a small card processing fee, and by default the person tipping covers both, so you receive the amount they chose. Weekly payouts to your bank are free. The details are in the FAQ.
Common questions
Where should a house cleaner put a tip QR code?
On a "your home was cleaned by" card left on the kitchen counter. On the checklist you leave at the end of a job.
What should a house cleaner's tip sign say?
Try: "Your home was cleaned today by [name]. If you are happy, a tip is always appreciated. Scan here." Give a reason, show a large code and include your name.
Should I use a personal code or a team code?
A personal code if you work alone. A two or three person crew can use a group and split equally.