How to Find an English-Speaking Cleaning Lady in Paris? In 7 points

Moving to Paris as an expat is exciting – but also overwhelming. New culture, new language, new habits… and often, a new home that needs cleaning. If you’re an expat partner living in Paris, chances are you’ve already asked yourself:

Where can I find a trustworthy English-speaking cleaning lady in Paris?

You’re not alone. Here’s your guide to navigating the different cleaning options available in the city – with a special focus on what matters to expatriates: ease of communication, flexibility, and no administrative headaches.

1. What Expats Should Know First

Let’s be clear: many French cleaning services advertise a 50% tax reduction through the CESU system (Chèque Emploi Service Universel). It’s a well-known incentive… for French taxpayers.

But for most expats who don’t pay French income tax, this reduction doesn’t apply. That’s why hiring through platforms that simplify paperwork and offer flexible contracts is usually more useful than relying on potential tax benefits.

So, what are your real options?

2. English-speaking cleaning lady, Wecasa – Daring Premium and Professional

Wecasa offers a wide range of services (cleaning, babysitting, massages, haircuts…). When booking, simply enter your Paris zip code, choose your needs (cleaning, ironing, etc.), and select your availability.

• Pros:

  • They handle all contracts, pay slips and insurance.

  • You can choose the duration and frequency.

  • Some cleaners speak English (mention it in the notes when booking).

• Cons:

  • More expensive than hiring directly.

  • No guarantee your cleaner will speak English unless you request it specifically.

💡 Tip: You can cancel anytime, which makes it a flexible solution for new arrivals still settling in.

3. Yoojo – Budget-Friendly and Flexible

Yoojo is a platform that connects individuals for all kinds of services, from cleaning to babysitting. You post your request (location, cleaning tasks, budget) and workers apply.

• Pros:

  • Less expensive than agency-based options.

  • You can see the cleaner’s reviews and ratings.

  • Admin tasks are handled by Yoojo (including payslips).

• Cons:

  • English-speaking cleaners are not guaranteed – filter profiles and check reviews.

  • More casual than agency-based services.

💡 Good to know: Some expats have found long-term cleaners through Yoojo who later became part of their daily life!

4. Shiva – High-End, absolutely Reliable, but Costly

Shiva is an established agency offering professional cleaners. While they do handle all legal and administrative paperwork, and provide a customized service, they are significantly more expensive.

• Pros:

  • High-quality, reliable staff.

  • Full support with schedules, replacements, and follow-ups.

• Cons:

  • High rates.

  • Limited number of English-speaking cleaners (ask specifically).

💡 Ideal if: you’re looking for a premium, long-term solution and don’t mind paying more.

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5. Aspara Ménage – Social and Local help

Aspara Ménage is a non-profit helping unemployed people reintegrate into the workforce. It offers trained and reliable cleaners for regular or occasional services.

• Pros:

  • Social mission + decent pricing.

  • Admin support included.

• Cons:

  • English-speaking staff not guaranteed.

  • Limited to Paris and surrounding areas.

💡 Check availability early, as they often have waiting lists.

6. English-speaking cleaning lady, Direct Hiring: Leboncoin

If you want full control and lower costs, Leboncoin.fr is a popular classified ad site in France. You can post your own ad or reply to others.

• Pros:

  • No intermediary, usually lower prices.

  • You choose someone living nearby.

• Cons:

  • You handle everything: contracts, pay slips, paid leave, insurance.

  • You must follow French labor laws.

💡 Best for French-speakers who are comfortable managing admin and legal steps.

7. What About the CESU?

You might hear about the CESU system to pay your cleaner – especially from French neighbors. While it’s a great system for French residents, most expatriates can’t benefit from the tax credit, which makes it less relevant.

CESU can still be used to declare your cleaner legally, but you need to:

• Register on www.cesu.urssaf.fr

• Pay the salary + 10% for paid holidays

• Submit monthly declarations

💡 If you go this route, CESU can simplify things, but it’s still quite technical if you’re new to the French system.

Final Tips to Find a Good Cleaner

• Always ask if the person speaks English, or check reviews before booking.

• Don’t hesitate to ask for a trial session.

• If you’re unsure, start with a platform that handles contracts and legal duties, especially if your French isn’t fluent yet.

Summary

Finding an English-speaking cleaning lady in Paris doesn’t have to be stressful – but it does require the right information.

If you want flexibility, legal safety and English-speaking staff, go with:

• Wecasa or Yoojo for convenience.

• Shiva for premium service.

• Leboncoin if you feel confident managing everything.

And remember: tax benefits don’t always apply to expats, so don’t base your decision only on that!

Absolutely French is the first French school dedicated exclusively to expatriate spouses and expatriates.

Our main mission is to promote dual careers among expatriate couples.

With our fun, friendly and innovative French courses, we can guarantee you a successful integration!

Want to learn with us? Register an expatriate spouse?

Contact us!

www.absolutelyfrench.com

E-mail: contact@absolutely-french.eu

Tel:  +33 (0) 1 83 73 98 49

Address: 15 rue du Colonel Moll, 75017, Paris