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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.
177 available today | Avg hourly rate: $23.34/hr

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

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Zay $20 per hour for 1 child

Hi there! My name is Zay :) I’m currently a senior student-athlete at Howard University, where I compete on the swim and dive team. Im health science major with a minor in biology. I have experience working with children through several roles, including as a Cast Member at Walt Disney World and as a Student Leader Intern (SLI) for the Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools program. I was also involved in my schools Best Buddies program and am well versed in communicating with kids with special needs. I am a MANDATED REPORTER and fully FIRST AID & CPR certified, so safety is always my top priority. Beyond childcare, I love coaching youth sports and creating fun, supportive environments where kids can learn, grow, and feel confident. I connect easily with kids of all ages and pride myself on providing both a safe and enjoyable experience for them (and peace of mind for parents!).

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Alondra 1 review
$35 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Washington, DC

I’m a responsible medical student with experience in pediatrics and nursery rotations, giving me strong skills in child care and safety. I’m patient, energetic, and love engaging kids in fun, educational activities. I can also assist with homework. Fluent in Spanish, I create a warm and inclusive environment for all families.

“Alondra is great! Caring and sweet, great communication throughout the evening. Our 3 yr old connected with her immediately. We’ll absolutely work with her again in future!”

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Emily
Booked by 1 repeat family
$19 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Washington, DC

Hello! My name is Emily, and I'm based in the DC area. I provide reliable and attentive care for both dogs and cats. I have experience with a wide range of breeds, ages, and temperaments, and I take pride in offering personalized, thoughtful care to meet each pet’s unique needs. Whether it’s daily walks, feeding, administering medication, or simply keeping your pets company while you're away, I’m here to help. I understand how important it is to find someone you trust with your pets, and I treat every animal with the same love and respect I would give my own. Feel free to reach out—I’d be happy to chat about how I can support you and your pets!

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Sofia $25 per hour for 1 child

My name is Sofia! I am from the Dominican Republic but I am currently studying in the George Washington University here in DC! I am 19 years old and have had a lot of prior expirience caring for kids. I was a summer camp counselor for 3 years, working either kids from ages 2-12 as well as a babysitter here in DC my past freshman year of college! Additionally I have two nephews which I regularly take care of when I am back home. I consider myself very energetic and kind and some usually say I have a special way with kids. I really enjoy spending my time taking care of children as they are fun and creative. I am very loving and organized and have the ability to speak spanish and english. Lastly, I am CPR certified by the American Heart Association and am very responsible!

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Lena $19 per hour for 1 child

Hello! My name is Lena, I’m 18 years old and I am in my sophomore year of college. I have been babysitting for 3 and a half years for various families. I speak English, Spanish, and French which a lot of families benefit from! I’m very patient, and love working with kids!

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

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $23.34
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $28.01
  • Typical job length: 4.8 hours
  • Most requested times: Morning

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.

1,346 sitters background checked in Washington, DC

4.9 average star rating from total of 5,926 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 $23.34 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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