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Find a last-minute babysitter in Washington, DC

Need a sitter on short notice? Washington families find trusted, background checked babysitters on UrbanSitter.

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309 available last-minute babysitters in Washington, DC

Families in Washington use UrbanSitter for last-minute date nights, schedule changes, backup care, and same-day babysitter needs.
167 available today | Avg hourly rate: $23.32/hr

All babysitters shown here are background checked every year. Learn more.

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Sivahle $25 per hour for 1 child

Nice to meet you! After receiving my Bachelor's in Psychology with a specialization in Child Development, I moved back to the DC area to be closer to family. Between my undergrad work programs and my current job, I've been working in a teaching capacity with children for about 6 years now. Currently, I'm employed full time as a associate teacher at a DC preschool. This experience provides me with lots of benefits that I then get to share with my babysitting families! Some of these benefits include child CPR certification, easy meal times (I've supported all sorts of kids with different dietary and motor needs), comfort with managing siblings, and a willingness to embrace the toughest bedtime routines. I look forward to working with your family!

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Ellen $20 per hour for 1 child

Hi there!! My name is Ellen, I am a Senior at Howard University in D.C. As a college student, I understand the in’s and outs of multitasking. I love to help out busy parents and make their lives easier. I come from a large family and am well acquainted with the aspects of babysitting as I have been sitting for a very long time. I have no problem helping out with meals/meal prep for the week, cleaning, running errands, planning activities for the kids, and getting them where they need to be for the day. I am very patient and always find fun things to do with the kids I babysit, while ensuring they feel safe and comfortable at all times. My main goal is to alleviate the stress of working parents whom already have a lot on their plates. I am willing to help with whatever needs need to be be met. See you soon!!

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Christopher $20 per hour for 1 child

I was a manny for three boys during COVID and the following two summers. I created a summer camp agenda that included daily activities such as swimming, arts and crafts, chess, sports games, and skill drills, as well as summer school work and brain games. During COVID, I also served as a tutor to assist children with their basic schoolwork. I am incredibly patient with kids and empathetic. The kid's happiness and safety is my number one priority. I will go above and beyond to make sure that all needs are met. I can do light cooking and clean up any messes we make. Have an excellent driving record in case of an emergency. I am very easy to reach and rarely miss phone calls or texts. I attended Harvard-Westlake and am currently attending University in Washington, DC.

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Lilith $17 per hour for 1 child

I would describe myself as an outgoing, energetic, responsible and overall patient individual. I enjoy working with children, as I believe they are our future! I also believe that working with children provides an opportunity to discover a new purpose everyday! While nothing is going to come easy, the gratification I feel breaking through to a child and seeing their face light up with that “ah ha” moment is worth it. I have been working with children for the majority of my life. As of right now, I work for a caregiving service that specializes in the care of children with special needs, called Cambrian Homecare, and have been here for about 3 years. If you allow me the chance to work with your kids, you have my word that I will keep them safe! As well as treating them with respect and care.

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Courtney $20 per hour for 1 child

Every summer in high school I was a camp counselor for roughly six weeks, working with ages 4-10. I also frequently babysat during high school, usually ages 7-10. I am currently on my fourth season as a Girls on the Run coach for ages 8-10. I really enjoy spending time kids. I have always had a dog and typically take care of my dog when my parents are away. I am a responsible person and understand the effort required to take care of people (fur people include) and genuinely enjoy doing that!

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How much does a last-minute babysitter cost in Washington, DC?

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $23.32
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $28.00
  • Typical job length: 4.8 hours
  • Most requested times: Evening

As of November 2026

Recent babysitter activity in Washington, DC

Trust matters, especially on short notice

Babysitters on UrbanSitter are background checked every year, with every profile individually reviewed by our Trust and Safety team.

1,345 sitters background checked in Washington, DC

4.9 average star rating from total of 5,899 reviews in Washington, DC

photo of quoted parent Marie

"Amina came and helped us out when our babysitter canceled last minute. She was great with our kids. Even our 11 month old son who has stranger anxiety warmed up to her."

Marie C., parent

photo of quoted parent Jenny

"She was so flexible and came last minute to help out. The house was really neat when I got home and both kids were asleep. Two thumbs up!"

Jenny S., parent

photo of quoted parent Jesse

"Thrisa was amazing! Came over last minute and took amazing care of our 11 month old - including bedtime - she's coming back tomorrow :)"

Jesse D., parent

Family with caregiver

Find a last-minute babysitter in Washington

Submit a request to hear from available sitters.

Why Washington families choose UrbanSitter for last-minute child care

Quick responses when plans change

In most cities, average response time for last-minute requests is under two minutes.

Recommended by Washington families

See which babysitters have been hired by parents at your child's school, preschool, or neighborhood in Washington.

Background checked, every year

Every babysitter clears an annual background check, offering peace of mind even on short notice.

Read reviews, then decide

See parent reviews, repeat families, and average response times to find the right fit fast.

Frequently asked questions about finding a last-minute babysitter in Washington

How do I find a last-minute babysitter in Washington?

Sign up on UrbanSitter, enter your zip code, and submit a request with your timing and care needs. Babysitters near Washington who are available can respond to your request. Before choosing, you can view profiles, parent reviews, and shared connections.

How much does a last-minute babysitter cost in Washington?

As of November 2026, the average babysitting rate in Washington is $23.32 per hour for one child. Rates vary by experience, number of children, and time of day. See babysitting rates in Washington.

Are babysitters on UrbanSitter background checked?

Yes. Every babysitter on UrbanSitter completes an annual background check. You can also read reviews from Washington families and see shared connections before you book. See what's included in the background check.

Can I find a same-day babysitter in Washington?

Same-day requests are common on UrbanSitter. Submit a request with your timing and care needs, and available sitters in Washington can respond. In most cities, the average response time for urgent requests is under two minutes.

Should I pay more for a last-minute babysitter?

Some parents offer a slightly higher rate for last-minute or same-day requests, but it is not required. On UrbanSitter, rates are set by individual babysitters. You can see each babysitter's hourly rate on their profile before you book.

What if I need a babysitter last minute today?

To find a last-minute babysitter today, share your timing and care needs on UrbanSitter. Available babysitters in Washington can respond, and you can review profiles before choosing.

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