From Overwhelmed to Empowered: Nomsa’s New Life as a Housekeeper

After years of hustling as a street vendor, cashier, and grocery packer, Nomsa was barely scraping by. Some days she made less than R100. Other days, nothing at all. She was tired — not of working hard, but of working without results.

All she wanted was a job with real pay and real stability.

One afternoon, she spotted a flyer near the taxi rank: “Housekeepers Wanted – Full-time & Part-time – Apply Today.”

She took a chance. Called the number. Went to the interview. And that simple step changed everything.

😞 Before becoming a housekeeper…	😊 After getting the job!
Sold snacks and second-hand clothes on the street	Works for a private client with a monthly salary
Never earned more than R2,000 in a month	Can now earn between R8,000 and R15,000, depending on the job
Struggled to pay rent or buy basics	Pays her bills and even sends money home
Felt like every month was a new battle	Finally feels calm, in control, and hopeful

What it’s really like to work as a Housekeeper

For many women, housekeeping isn’t a fallback — it’s a way forward. With the right employer, agency, or cleaning platform, it’s possible to earn a stable and surprising income, sometimes reaching R10,000 or even R15,000 per month.

It’s not just cleaning. It’s consistency. It’s trust. And it’s a chance to finally build something steady.

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
Can pay much more than casual or retail jobs	Physically demanding in some roles
Jobs available in homes, hotels, lodges, and via apps	Not all employers offer contracts
Opportunities to earn R8K+ with the right client	May require weekend or holiday work
Meals, transport, or accommodation often included	Risk of exploitation in informal settings
Real chance to save, invest, and plan for the future	Workload can vary depending on expectations

Nomsa once believed she had no options. But she was wrong. Now she earns more than ever before — with dignity and direction.

And it all began with a single flyer…
And the word that opens new doors: “Hired.”

Housekeepers: The Workers Who Keep Everything in Order

Housekeepers play an important role in many workplaces and homes across South Africa.
They help keep spaces clean, organized, and ready for use — whether it’s a hotel room, an office, or a private home.

It’s a job that requires attention to detail, physical effort, and a sense of responsibility.
And while it often happens behind the scenes, this work is key to helping businesses and families stay on track.

Companies and platforms are hiring housekeepers!

Here are two examples of how housekeepers are currently involved in well-known companies and platforms:

---

🟡 Sun International Hotels

Sun International is one of South Africa’s largest hotel groups. Their housekeepers:

• Clean and prepare guest rooms
• Maintain cleanliness in public areas
• Refill supplies like towels and toiletries
• Report any damages or maintenance needs

Thanks to their daily work, guests can enjoy a clean and comfortable stay in both urban and resort locations.

---

🟡 SweepSouth

SweepSouth is a mobile app that connects housekeepers with clients looking for cleaning services. Workers using the platform:

• Choose their own hours and areas where they want to work
• Provide services like home cleaning, ironing, laundry, and more
• Receive weekly payments through the app
• Can earn between R8,000 and R15,000 per month, depending on hours and demand

It’s a flexible option for those looking to manage their own schedules while building a client base.

---

Common responsibilities of a housekeeper

While tasks may vary depending on the employer, most housekeeping jobs include:

• Making beds and changing linens
• Sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming floors
• Cleaning bathrooms and kitchens
• Folding laundry and ironing clothes
• Keeping rooms stocked and organized
• Reporting problems or damages when needed

In some roles, housekeepers may also be responsible for handling cleaning supplies and maintaining safety and hygiene standards.

---

What to expect from the job

Like any job, housekeeping has its positives and challenges. Here’s a quick overview:

✅ Advantages	❌ Challenges
No formal education required	Physically demanding work
Jobs available in many locations	Some roles may include weekend shifts
Opportunity to earn a good income	Not all employers offer contracts
Some positions include meals or transport	Risk of irregular hours in informal jobs
Can build long-term relationships with clients	Some tasks may require heavy lifting

Housekeeping is a reliable source of income for many women in South Africa.
Whether employed by a hotel or working independently through a platform like SweepSouth, housekeepers contribute to clean, safe, and welcoming spaces — every single day.

---

Prefer Working on the Move? An Alternative for Active Earners

For those who prefer being outdoors, constantly moving, and exploring new places, becoming an independent delivery partner with Uber Eats is a flexible alternative. You choose your own hours, deliver food in your area, and earn per delivery—perfect for those who enjoy independence on the road.