Keeping a home clean in Siem Reap's tropical climate is a year-round effort: red laterite dust in the dry season, humidity and mould during the rains, and ever-present insect intrusions make regular cleaning essential. Fortunately, hiring a housekeeper or cleaner is both affordable and straightforward. A full-time live-out housekeeper typically earns 120-200 USD per month, working six days a week for 4-6 hours daily — duties usually include sweeping, mopping, laundry, ironing and basic cooking. Part-time or one-off cleaning sessions run 15-30 USD for a standard villa in Sala Kamroeuk or Svay Dangkum. For deeper cleans — post-construction cleanup, move-in/move-out scrubbing, or upholstery shampooing — professional teams charge 50-150 USD depending on the property size. Garden maintenance is another popular service: a gardener visits twice a week to mow, trim hedges and water plants for 40-80 USD per month. Several companies near Pub Street and along National Road 6 also offer laundry services at 1-2 USD per kilogram with same-day turnaround. Expats recommend agreeing on tasks and schedule in writing, providing supplies yourself (local brands are cheap and effective), and paying bi-monthly for ongoing arrangements. Our directory highlights cleaners and housekeepers with proven track records in the expat community.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a housekeeper cost in Siem Reap?
A full-time live-out housekeeper earns 120-200 USD per month for six days a week, 4-6 hours daily. Part-time arrangements (3 days/week) cost 60-100 USD. Rates depend on the number of tasks and the size of your home.
Where can I find a reliable cleaner in Siem Reap?
Word of mouth in the expat community is the best source. Facebook groups like 'Expats Siem Reap' regularly post recommendations. Our directory also lists vetted cleaning providers with community ratings.
How much does a one-off deep clean cost in Siem Reap?
A professional deep clean for a standard 2-3 bedroom villa costs 50-100 USD. This includes scrubbing bathrooms, kitchen degreasing, window cleaning and floor polishing. Larger properties or post-construction cleans can reach 150 USD.
Is laundry service affordable in Siem Reap?
Yes, laundry shops near Pub Street and along the main roads charge 1-2 USD per kilogram with same-day or next-day return. Ironing is usually included. Some services also offer pick-up and delivery for a small fee.
How do I hire a gardener in Siem Reap?
Most gardeners work for multiple households. A typical arrangement is two visits per week for mowing, hedge trimming and watering at 40-80 USD per month. Ask your neighbours for recommendations — gardeners often service entire streets.
What cleaning products are available in Siem Reap?
Supermarkets and local shops stock Thai and Cambodian brands (Mr. Muscle, Vixol, Dettol) at very low prices. Imported European products are available at Lucky Mall at higher prices. Most expats find local brands perfectly effective.
Should I provide cleaning supplies to my housekeeper?
Yes, most expats provide all cleaning products, mops, brooms and cloths. This ensures you control quality and reduces misunderstandings. A full monthly supply costs about 10-15 USD for a standard villa.
How do I deal with mould in my home in Siem Reap?
Mould is common during the rainy season (May-October). Use a bleach-based cleaner on affected surfaces, run your AC in dry mode, and ensure good ventilation. A dehumidifier (available for 60-120 USD) helps in closed rooms.
Can I get pest control services in Siem Reap?
Yes, several companies offer monthly pest control (ants, mosquitoes, cockroaches, termites) for 15-40 USD per visit. Quarterly termite treatments cost 100-200 USD depending on property size. Ask about eco-friendly options.
Are there professional carpet or upholstery cleaners in Siem Reap?
A few companies offer sofa and mattress shampooing starting at 20-40 USD per piece. Carpet cleaning is less common since most homes have tile floors, but it is available for 30-60 USD per room.
How often should I schedule a deep clean in Siem Reap?
Given the dust and humidity, a deep clean every 2-3 months is advisable in addition to regular weekly cleaning. Focus on bathrooms, kitchen hoods, air-conditioning filters and areas behind furniture where mould can develop.
What is the typical work schedule for a housekeeper in Siem Reap?
Most housekeepers work 8 am to 12 pm or 1 pm, six days a week (Sunday off). Some prefer afternoon shifts. Discuss the schedule and tasks clearly before starting. National holidays (about 28 per year) are usually days off.
Do cleaning services handle move-in/move-out cleans in Siem Reap?
Yes, several professional teams specialise in move-in and move-out cleans. Expect to pay 60-120 USD for a thorough clean of a 2-3 bedroom villa. Book at least 3-5 days in advance, especially at the start or end of the month.
How do I handle payroll and contracts for a housekeeper in Siem Reap?
Formal employment contracts are uncommon for domestic workers. Most arrangements are verbal. Pay in cash (USD or riel) at the agreed interval. Many expats add a 13th-month bonus at Khmer New Year (April) as a goodwill gesture.
Is it safe to give a housekeeper keys to my home in Siem Reap?
Many long-term expats do give keys to trusted housekeepers. Start with supervised sessions and build trust over weeks before handing over keys. Ask for references from other expat households and check our directory reviews.