First world problem - my cleaner is pregnant, when should I get a new one?

[Pipsquiggle]

I know how first world problem this is and how privileged I am.

I have a cleaner, she's brilliant. Been cleaning for us for 4 years. I have recommended her to friends / neighbours and I would give up loads of things before I gave up having a cleaner.

She's pregnant, first baby, she's had a MC which was really hard on her. Her pregnancy is not straightforward, she's suffering from morning sickness, severe migraines and fatigue. She's missed 5 of the last 6 weeks due to illness. I want to support her but also would like my house cleaned. She's also self employed so probably very aware of her income levels going to 0 in the not too distant future. I think she's around 12 weeks.

Anyone been in a similar situation? Ideally I would like to be led by her but may need to force the conversation on mat leave etc.

Can you ask her what she wants? She might be able to recommend someone who would take over temporarily. Do you know if she will want to come back after the baby is old enough?

@parietal she wants to keep working to earn money (which is why I don't really want to move on to someone else yet). She still lives with her mum and her BF lives with his parents (both in their late 20s). I am not sure she's thought about post partum. She has a lot of clients around here

You're doing the right thing trying to support her while also being honest about your needs. Maybe frame the convo as “let’s plan ahead together” so she feels secure but you’re not left in limbo. If she’s open to it, she might even know someone she trusts to sub in temporarily.

Going through the very same OP. But my cleaner was previously inconsistent too. I definitely want to support her, and also want the house cleaned. She came today and didn't do a good job. Last week she cancelled on me but I saw her car outside a neighbours house she cleans for, really not sure what to do. So keeping an eye on this thread. Thank you for posting