The Victorian era saw the tradition of giving servants small Boxing Day gifts, or ‘boxes’ of thanks to enjoy on their day off. Today, changes in attitudes and inflation mean knowing how much and when to tip at Christmas is becoming a minefield.
Liz Wyse, etiquette adviser for the aristocracy bible Debrett’s, says: ‘As a general rule of thumb if you have employed someone’s services – such as a cleaner, gardener or nanny – then a week’s wages is about right.
‘So, £60 for a cleaner who does three or four hours a week is a fair tip.’
She adds: ‘For occasional help, such as dog walking or babysitting, payment for an hour or so is enough – £10 minimum or £20 if you really value them.’
Cash in hand: Changes in attitudes and inflation mean knowing how much and when to tip at Christmas is becoming a minefield
Wyse believes that despite households feeling the squeeze this year, there is no excuse for being stingy at a time we should be generous.
She says: ‘People who you have employed tend to be less well off than you, so it cuts no mustard using hardship as an excuse to give them less money than they really deserve.’
Traditionally, households have also given gifts to postmen, milkmen and dustmen – but habits are changing, and this is no longer a requirement.
Wyse says: ‘If someone goes out of their way, such as a postman who must walk a long way to your door or deal with your dog, greet them in person and hand over an envelope containing £10. As a friendly gesture you could add ‘have a drink on me’.’
She suggests that ‘cash is king’ and although chocolates or a bottle of wine or sherry are generous options, most people nowadays prefer banknotes.
