Domestic Staffing Descriptions – Maid ~ Call: 646-290-8891
Maid
Maids traditionally have a fixed position in the hierarchy of the large households, and although there is overlap between definitions (dependent on the size of the household) the positions themselves would typically be rigidly adhered to. The usual types of maid are:
- Lady’s maid (personal attendant to the employer)
Maid
- Chamber maid (specifically cleans and cares for bedrooms)
- Kitchen maid (reports to the chef/cook)
- Parlor maid (answerable to the housekeeper or butler)
- Nursery maid (specifically for looking after children; reports to governess/nanny)
- Upstairs maid
- More common in larger homes, these positions are usually responsible for assisting, cleaning, and maintaining in one particular area of the household.
Like housekeepers, duties may also include:
- Careful cleaning maintenance of antiques and other fine craft work.
- Proper maintenance of rugs and carpeting.
- Turn down beds in the evening.
- Maintain household cleaning product inventory.
- Report need for major contractor cleaning such as blinds, windows or carpeting.
- Make beds and straighten bedrooms.
- Schedule of linen changes.
- Inventory of linens and proper care.
- Care for furniture fabrics, drapes and such.
- Light tailoring. (if no Laundress)
- Care for china and other precious service utensils and dining ware.
- Runs errands as necessary.
- Keeps outdoor social areas clean.
- Assist with meal serving and preparation for social functions.
