Preparing Your Home Before Your Helper Arrives: A Checklist

The days before your helper arrives are the perfect time to get organised. A little preparation now, from her sleeping space to a simple house guide, helps her settle faster and sets a warm, respectful tone from day one. Here is a practical checklist to work through before she lands.

1. Prepare her room or sleeping space

Your helper needs proper rest to do her job well, so her sleeping area matters. Whether it is a dedicated room or a thoughtfully arranged space, make sure it offers privacy, ventilation and comfort.

• A clean mattress or bed, with fresh bedsheets, a pillow and a blanket.
• Adequate ventilation or a fan, and a way to control light for sleep.
• Somewhere to store clothes and personal belongings, with a degree of privacy.
• Easy access to a bathroom.

2. Stock the daily essentials

It is thoughtful to have a few basics ready so she is not left without on her first night.

• Basic toiletries such as soap, shampoo, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and a towel.
• Suitable clothing for housework if you intend to provide any, and slippers.
• Familiar or simple food for the first few meals, and clear access to drinking water.
• A local SIM card or home Wi-Fi details so she can contact her family.

3. Write a simple house guide

Even the most experienced helper cannot guess your household’s routines. A short, friendly written guide prevents confusion and reduces stress for everyone in the first weeks. Consider noting down:

1. The daily routine, including wake times, meal times and the children’s school schedule.
2. Key duties and any tasks that must be done a certain way.
3. House rules, for example on phone use during work, visitors and quiet hours.
4. Emergency contacts and what to do if someone is unwell or there is an accident.

Keep the tone of the guide warm rather than strict. It is meant to help her succeed, not to police her.

4. Make the home safe

A quick safety check protects both your helper and your family, especially in homes with young children, elderly members or high windows.

• Ensure window grilles are secured, and review any rules about cleaning windows safely. Working at dangerous heights should always be avoided.
• Store cleaning chemicals, medicines and sharp items sensibly.
• Check that gas, electrical appliances and the kitchen are in safe working order.
• Point out fire exits and where to find the first-aid kit.

5. Sort out the administrative basics

Before or just after arrival, make sure the essentials are in order so you both start on the right foot.

• Confirm her medical and personal accident insurance are in place.
• Note that first-time helpers must attend the Settling-In Programme (SIP) within the first three working days.
• Agree on salary, the rest day arrangement and off-day plans in writing. Remember that since 1 January 2023, at least one rest day a month cannot be compensated away with pay.
• Keep a calendar reminder for the 6-monthly medical examination (6ME).

6. Plan a warm first day

First impressions shape the whole working relationship. On arrival, give her time to rest after travelling, offer a meal, and walk her gently around the home and appliances. Introduce family members by name, show her where everything is, and keep instructions simple for the first day. Patience now pays off for months to come.

How Ming Hwee helps

Ming Hwee (MOM Licence 12C6072) does more than match you with a helper. We guide you through arrival, the Settling-In Programme and those important first weeks, so both you and your helper start off comfortably. Getting ready to welcome someone new? Find your helper with us or reach out on WhatsApp and we will help you prepare.

Related guides

• Red Flags When Hiring a Helper (and How to Avoid Them)
• How to Interview a Helper: 20 Questions That Actually Matter
• Maid Agency vs Direct Hire in Singapore: Which Is Right for You?

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