Confinement Nanny Singapore: Cost, Duties & How to Choose (2025)

A confinement nanny (also called confinement lady) helps you through the traditional 28-day confinement period after childbirth. Think of them as a live-in expert who takes care of both you and your baby so you can focus on recovering. Here's what they typically do: • Baby care: feeding, burping, bathing, changing diapers, umbilical cord care, checking for jaundice • Mum care: preparing confinement meals (usually 5–6 meals a day), herbal tonics, red date tea • Light housework: washing baby clothes, sterilising bottles, keeping the nursery tidy • Night care: handling night feeds so you can get proper rest — this alone is worth the cost • Advice: breastfeeding support, newborn care tips, post-natal recovery guidance

For a 28-day period, expect to pay between $2,500 and $5,500. What you pay depends on: • Experience — nannies with good referrals and years of experience charge $3,500–$5,500 • Agency fees — booking through an agency adds $200–$500 (but gives you replacement guarantees) • Live-in vs live-out — live-in nannies are about $500–$1,000 more • Time of year — Chinese New Year and school holidays can add a $500–$1,000 premium • Extra duties — twins, special needs, or additional housework mean higher fees

You've got two main options: **1. Through an agency** — This is the safer choice, especially for first-time parents. Agencies screen their nannies, provide training, and offer replacements if your nanny falls ill. Book 2–3 months in advance. **2. Direct hire** — Ask friends or check online communities (SG Motherhood Forum, Facebook groups). It's cheaper, but there's no replacement guarantee if something happens. Whichever route you choose, always get a contract that spells out duties, schedule, fees, and what happens if your nanny needs time off.

Beyond the nanny fee itself, factor in these costs: • Confinement nanny fee: $2,500–$5,500 • Confinement meal delivery (if your nanny doesn't cook): $800–$1,500 for 28 days • Herbal supplies and tonics: $200–$500 • Baby essentials (diapers, wipes, toiletries): $300–$500 It adds up, but here's the good news: your Baby Bonus Cash Gift can help cover it. Many families use the first instalment ($9,000 for a first child) specifically for confinement care. Use the Finance Hub to plan your full post-natal budget and see how it all fits together.