"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
Find a last-minute babysitter in Washington, DC
Need a sitter on short notice? Washington families find trusted, background checked babysitters on UrbanSitter.
Looking for jobs? Apply here.
308 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.
Kieran $37 per hour for 1 child
Hi! My name is Kieran. I am based in Washington, DC and am current only offering walks and dog care for existing clients. I am also Athena’s number one fan!
Amy 1 review
$25 per hour for 1 child
$25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Washington, DC
Hi, my name is Amy and I’m looking forward to helping your family out with childcare :) I am a recent Physician Assistant graduate and am looking for evening/ weekend opportunities. My mom had a home daycare so I’ve been around infants and children of all age practically my entire life! Prior to PA school, I was also babysitting for a family and helped with animal care as well as house sitting. I am CPR certified and am also a native Spanish speaker. I am comfortable with tasks including meal prepping, homework, potty training, and providing safe and age appropriate activities for your kiddo. Please let me know if you’d like to connect :)
Watch Video
Annie $18 per hour for 1 child
Hi! I'm originally from Atlanta and have been living in DC for the past two years while attending law school. Before moving here, I was a full-time nanny for three years, caring for two wonderful kids between the ages of 3 and 6. I also have experience babysitting children of all ages, from infants to teens. I love spending time reading, crafting, and doing puzzles with kids—and I'm always happy to help with furry family members too! I have a great eye for organization and enjoy tidying up as I go. Looking forward to connecting with a great family!
meera $25 per hour for 1 child
Hi! My name is Meera! I am an RN in DC and have been babysitting for over 6 years. I was a nanny for two summers for two kids and have babysat for ages 1 month - 10 years old. I am also happy to help with any pet care needed and light housekeeping. I am CPR/First Aid certified.
Jennifer 2 reviews
$20 per hour for 1 child
$20 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 2 families in Washington, DC
Hi there! I’m a warm, reliable caregiver with years of experience supporting children, seniors, and pets. I’ve worked as a daycare assistant, after-school instructor, and family sitter, always bringing patience, creativity, and structure to every day. I’m trained in early childhood development, homework help, and safe play. I also grew up with four Labradors and helped my brother with dog breeding, so I’m confident around pets too. Whether it’s preparing meals, engaging little ones in learning, or simply providing a calm, kind presence, I’m here to support your household with care you can trust.
“Jennifer was punctual and professional! Our baby was asleep so we did not need her to do any child care, but she was great with our dog.”
Live near a college or university? View babysitters by college
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
"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
"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
Find a last-minute babysitter in Washington
Submit a request to hear from available sitters.
We use email to send essential communication regarding your account.
To sign up with Facebook, we need permission to use your email address.
Sharing your friends list is optional, and allows us to connect you with sitters they book and recommend. Nothing will be shared or posted.
Find a last-minute babysitter in Washington
Submit a request to hear from available sitters.
We use email to send essential communication regarding your account.
To sign up with Facebook, we need permission to use your email address.
Sharing your friends list is optional, and allows us to connect you with sitters they book and recommend. Nothing will be shared or posted.
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.
Resources
Tips for finding last-minute child care
Ideas and strategies for when your plans change and you need a sitter.
How much does a babysitter cost?
See average babysitting rates by city and across the country.
Free printable emergency contacts card
A quick printable card to leave with your sitter in case something unexpected comes up.
