Holiday Etiquette: Who To Tip And How Much?
By Hadas Kuznits
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - It's the season for giving so to whom should you give a tip?
People in Center City say holiday tipping can be tricky.
"I usually decide to tip the people that do on a consistent basis work for me or do my hair," one woman said.
"I give the people that wait on me all the time a holiday gift. Normally I give them cash."
But it seems not everyone gets a tip.
"I remember that my mother would always tip the garbage man but I have never tipped the garbage man. I don't see them, is what it all boils down to."
While others get a large percentage.
"For instance the lady that cleans my home I give her an extra full pay as a holiday tip."
Perhaps there's so much confusion about holiday tipping because it's so inconsistent.
"I don't think I tip anyone special during the holidays season. I probably should tip the mailman though."
But postal workers aren't supposed to accept tips.
How Much Should You Tip:
Your Manicurist: If you see the same manicurist/pedicurist regularly, consider a tip between $10-$15. The general rule of thumb is to tip the price of one manicure.
Hairdresser/Stylist: This can vary greatly. Some etiquette experts suggest a $15 tip. Do you see the same hair stylist regularly? If they provide you with a quality cut/style each time, tip them the cost of one typical haircut.
Personal trainer: $25 up to 1 week's pay (or cost of 1 session)
Massage therapist: $50-$100 or cost of 1 session
Babysitter: If you have a regular babysitter, tip them the amount you would pay them for one evening's work. A small gift from your child is also a nice touch.
Full-time Nanny or Au Pair: One week's pay plus a small gift from your child.
Dog Walker/regular dog sitter: One week's pay. A small gift is optional.
Dog groomer: Small gift + 1/4 to 1/2 the cost of 1 session
Daycare Provider: $20-$70/each and a small gift from child
Teacher: A small gift of about $20 value, given to the teacher by your child.
Coaches, tutors, music teachers, ballet instructors, etc: A small gift from the child
Mail carrier: By law, the Postal Service cannot accept tips or gifts. If you do decide to tip anyway, a tip of about $20 is a safe bet.
Paper carrier: $15-$25 for daily delivery ($5-$15 for weekend delivery)
Cleaning Person: Does the person visit once or twice a week? Tip them one week's pay. Consider tipping more if they do work more frequently.
Trash collectors: $15-$20 each
Parking attendants: $10-$35 each or up to half a month's parking bill for the group if they regularly provide extra service
Gardener: $20-$50.
General Tips On Tipping:
Remember cash is king. Choose to give cash over a check, and do your best to make sure it's a fresh, crisp bill.
If you can't afford to give a little extra – or at all – a handwritten note to show your gratitude is something you should consider. Be sure to express your appreciation in some way to the folks who make your life easier. Suggestions include a holiday card or a handmade gift or treat like cookies or candy.
