What Nigerian Moms Must Look for When Hiring a Maid: It’s Deeper Than You Think

7 Things to Look for When Hiring Domestic Help in Nigeria:

Hiring a maid in Nigeria is not just a “help” decision—it’s a safety decision. So many mothers make choices under pressure—immediately after childbirth, or while juggling work—and end up with regrets. At MomCircleNG, we’ve heard the stories, and we want to help you make better choices.

The search for the right maid can often feel overwhelming. It’s a vulnerable position for mothers, especially in a society where house help is a necessity for many. But just because a maid is needed doesn’t mean the process of hiring should be rushed or based solely on convenience. Your child’s safety and your peace of mind must come first.

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Here Are 7 Things to Look for When Hiring Domestic Help in Nigeria:

1. Attitude Over Experience

It’s tempting to choose someone because they’ve “worked with madam before.” But attitude matters more than background. Look for humility, not just a résumé. When someone has the right attitude, they are open to learning, understanding, and adapting to your family’s needs. Experience can be trained; a positive attitude cannot.

2. Watch How They Interact With Your Child

You’ll know a lot from that first interaction. Are they gentle, curious, or withdrawn? Trust your instincts as a mother. Children can sense the energy and attention around them. A maid’s relationship with your child should feel safe and nurturing.

If they seem aloof, disinterested, or impatient with the baby, that’s a big red flag. Remember, your child’s emotional and physical well-being should be a priority.

3. Pay Attention to Language

If you can’t communicate clearly, it leads to misunderstandings. This could become dangerous when instructions around your child aren’t followed properly. When hiring, ensure there’s a mutual understanding of the language or languages spoken in your home. This can prevent miscommunications about things that are very important, like baby feeding schedules or safety instructions.

4. Don’t Ignore Red Flags During the Interview

If she’s overly demanding about phones, or already asking “what if I want to travel,” pay attention. Energy doesn’t lie. Some signs that shouldn’t be overlooked include someone who is overly secretive about their personal life, or who asks for time off too early in the conversation. It’s important to consider how transparent they are, especially regarding their plans, availability, and commitments.

5. Ask Questions About Boundaries

Ask things like:

• “Are there tasks you feel uncomfortable doing ?

• “How do you feel about washing baby clothes?”

Their answers will reveal a lot about expectations. The key is ensuring your boundaries align. For example, if you have specific cleaning preferences, it’s important to ensure the help can respect that. You don’t want to hire someone who feels uncomfortable with these boundaries or doesn’t understand the importance of them.

6. Do Your Own Background Check

Even if it’s a referral, ask more questions. Where’s she from? What was her last job like? Does she have family close by? Check for references and talk to previous employers if possible. A reliable background check will help you know whether or not the candidate is a good fit for your home.

7. Always Trust Your Gut

If something feels off, it probably is. There’s no shame in walking away—even after the first day. As a mother, your gut feeling is one of the strongest tools you have when it comes to decision-making. Don’t ignore it, especially when something doesn’t feel right. Trust that it’s okay to change your mind after giving someone a chance to prove themselves.

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Additional Advice:

Check for Compatibility With Your Lifestyle:

It’s important to look for someone who fits well with the dynamics of your family. A good maid should complement your lifestyle, not disrupt it. For example, if you have an infant, you need someone who can follow your child’s sleep schedule or be sensitive to feeding times. If you are breastfeeding, consider how your maid will handle your needs as well.

Create a Trial Period

Having a clear trial period, such as one week, is a great way to see how well they fit into your home. It gives you an opportunity to observe their behavior, adaptability, and overall performance before making a long-term commitment.

Offer Clear Instructions and Expectations

When you hire someone, set clear guidelines. Create a list of your house rules, child care expectations, and other daily responsibilities. Don’t assume the maid knows exactly what you want. Being clear upfront helps prevent misunderstandings later.

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Pro Tip from Moms in Our Circle:

“It’s okay to test someone for a week before fully committing. Your home is sacred.”

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Conclusion:

Dear mama, don’t let pressure rush you into hiring someone who’ll later cause chaos. Take your time. Ask the hard questions. Don’t be afraid to have uncomfortable conversations. Set clear boundaries from the start. And know that you deserve help that brings you peace—not panic.

You’ve got this, mama!

Sending you hugs, love from Ukwuoma Princess