10 Times You Should Really Be Leaving a Tip (But Probably Aren't)

After years of tip prompts popping up seemingly everywhere, many folks have tipping fatigue. While that can help us avoid wasting money, it can also lead us to overlook situations where tips are an essential part of a worker's wages.

Most people know the standard rules for restaurants and rideshares, but plenty of other service workers often get forgotten. To that end, here are some commonly overlooked tipping situations where a small gesture can make an impact.

Hotel housekeepers

Hotel housekeepers, who are often known to be hardworking, are paid far less than the average wage.

Etiquette experts recommend leaving $1 to $5 per night, and it's usually best to leave the money each day rather than at checkout. That's because housekeepers often rotate, so distributing tips means everyone gets equally compensated.

Food delivery drivers

Food delivery drivers rely heavily on tips, especially when they work for third-party delivery apps, which arguably aren't known for paying well. While delivery fees make it seem like drivers are being compensated, much of that money likely doesn't go to them.

A tip of 15% to 20% is appropriate. In bad weather or during peak hours, leaving a larger sum recognizes going above and beyond.

Tattoo artists

Tattoo artists are very skilled professionals, but tipping is still common in this service industry. Patrons often focus on the hourly rate without realizing how much work went into the tattoo design beforehand.

While the amount can vary, many people tip around 15% to 20% of the total cost. If your artist exceeded your expectations in every way, 25% is appreciated.

Massage therapists

When you're visiting a spa for relaxation or wellness services, leaving a tip thanks your therapist for their finesse, skill, and care. A tip of about 15% to 20% is fairly standard for a spa massage, especially when you've had great service.

However, the rules are different in medical settings. Tipping is typically not expected for clinical massage therapy or physical therapy appointments.

Hair stylists

Many folks aren't sure what the tipping rules are for stylists, especially at independent salons or when paying higher service prices. A tip of around 20% is generally considered standard for a haircut, color, or other salon service.

Tipping is especially important because many stylists are responsible for covering their own expenses, including tools, mandatory continuing education, booth rental fees, and professional products.

Nail technicians

While prices for manicures and pedicures vary, a 10% to 20% tip is square within range. Consider the intimate work techs perform, too, as they're up close and personal with parts of our bodies we don't usually share with others.

If your tech does intricate nail art or has to work harder than usual for other reasons, going up to 25% shows sincere appreciation.

Pet groomers

Pet groomers do so much more than give our pets a fresh look. They spend their days handling anxious dogs, cranky cats, and doing work that requires patience and safety training. Often they work on commission, too.

Many pet guardians leave around 15% to 20%. A tip is extra appreciated if your groomer worked with a nervous pet or handled matting or other grooming challenges.

Movers

Movers have one of the most demanding jobs on this list, which is why many folks tip them after a job well done. In a nutshell, moving is hard work.

Many tip movers based on the size and difficulty of the move or provide a set amount per crew member. If there's bad weather or you have an exceptionally complicated move, extra money signals your appreciation for their muscle.

Coat check attendants

At places like restaurants, theaters, and weddings, coat check attendants keep our belongings secure and organized. While the expected amount is usually small, often just $1 for coats and $2 for bigger bags, those dollars add up.

Tipping is especially appreciated during busy events when attendants are toggling large crowds and helping folks with the bulky coats, bags, and personal items we prefer not to juggle.

Restroom attendants

If you've ever been to a nightclub in a big city or a restroom in a foreign country, you may be surprised that these service professionals exist. Many may work only for tips.

The consensus is mixed on precisely what to tip, but if you take an item they hand you or make you feel secure, $1 or $2 is adequate.

Bottom line

Tipping fatigue is real, and it's understandable that many people are scrutinizing their financial fitness. However, not every tipping situation is the same. While some tip prompts can seem unnecessary, many workers depend on gratuities.

Knowing when a tip is expected can help you make more informed decisions without feeling pressured to tip everywhere. As you work to get ahead financially, it may be less about tipping less and more about tipping thoughtfully.

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