Tips On Tipping
We had our carpets cleaned the other day, and as I was talking on the phone to my husband while the cleaner was here, he informed to make sure I tipped him. I would have never thought to tip my carpet cleaner. By all means, I had no problem in doing so. I totally appreciated the service he was providing, the thought simply would not have entered my mind. My husband waited tables for a couple of years when he was fresh out of high school, and has always been a big tipper. I decided to save my own skin when I don’t have my husband around to help me out, and figure out who I should be tipping. I did some searching on the internet and got a variety of answers. Here’s a few of the suggestions I found.
Food Service
- Delivery person: 10% with a $2 minimum
- Maitre d’: $5-$25 for special service
- Waiter: 15%-20% depending on how good your service is.
Hotel Staff
- Bellman/Porter: $1-$2 per bag with a $5 minimum
- Concierge: $5-$20 depending on service – nothing for directions
- Housekeeper: $2-$5 a night – I suggest paying daily in case your housekeeper changes.
- Parking Valet: $2-$5
- Room Service: $5 minimum
Personal Service
- Barber/Hairstylist: 15%-20%
- Manicurist: 15%
- Spa Service: 15%-20%
- Masseuse: 10%-15%
- Shoe-Shiner: $2-$3
Nowhere in my search did I find anything about tipping your carpet cleaner, but it’s a nice gesture if you want them to come back! Our’s is our neighbor as well, so that always helps a friendship! Here’s a few more tips regarding tipping ediquette.
- If you use a coupon or gift certificate, calculate your tip based on the bill before the discount.
- Tip above the norm if your service was great, you made a mess (with kids, that’s often possible), or you are a regular client.
- If you take up a restaurant table for a long time, tip extra.
- When in doubt, tip.
- Tip descretely
My rule of thumb is that if I’m receiving a service, and it’s good service, consider a tip. It can’t hurt!
