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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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311 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.
191 available today | Avg hourly rate: $23.35/hr

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

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Margaret $30 per hour for 1 child

I love the ages of infant to 5 years old and hope to one day return to caring for and establishing a full time early childhood business. My career since my early 20s has been in education. I worked for 3+ years in Early Childhood Education and later moved to middle school teacher. In addition, I raised two children of my own who are currently in their late teens. I'm currently working as an administrator in the central office of DC Public Schools and am seeking part-time employment as a nanny, babysitter, house sitter, pet sitter, and more. Whatever the family which is the right fit may need.

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Madison $25 per hour for 1 child

Hi there! I'm Madison and live in Northwest DC. I went to the University of Richmond and have spent the last 5 years working in the nonprofit space. I'm currently career pivoting to apply to school for occupational therapy, and I have a flexible schedule. I have experience babysitting, working as a companion for senior citizens, and years working as a camp counselor. I'm bilingual, energetic, and also happy to provide tutoring or homework help. I also love animals, happy to dog walk / dog sit as well and am comfortable with cats (have one at home😊)

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Sarah $23 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Washington, DC

Hi! My name is Sarah. I am a physician assistant student looking for occasional babysitting jobs. I am 27 years old, have a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and have 10 years of childcare work experience, including: babysitting, nannying full-time, tutoring, and coaching gymnastics. I have experience working with children ranging from 3 months-13 years old. I love to stay active and spend time outside, and also enjoy reading, arts & crafts, and being creative. I strive to be a fun, engaging sitter and love meeting new families! I also provide overnight childcare, school drop-off/pick up, house managing services (ex. help with laundry, groceries, meals, extracurricular activities). I drive a reliable SUV and have a safe driving record. I hope to hear from you soon!

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Samara $14 per hour for 1 child

Hi !!! My name is Samara !! I am currently a student at the ILLUSTRIOUS Howard University double majoring in Education and Political Science. I am offering tutoring, childcare, and household assistance. I love kids. I grew up with 5 siblings (me being the oldest) which got me into babysitting. I have been taking care of children since I was 14 years old and enjoy every minute of it! My family has also ran a cleaning business over the years so I completely qualified to help with any household needs. Whether it’s cleaning, cooking, or small errands.

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Nakoryia $27 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Washington, DC

Hi! I’m an Atlanta native with lots of experience caring for kids and pets. I’ve babysat for teachers, my nephew, and other families, and I recently worked as a teaching fellow for middle school students. I love getting to know kids, helping them learn, and keeping them engaged. I’ve also worked as a summer camp counselor for multiple summers, including travel-based programs, which strengthened my ability to adapt to new environments and manage group dynamics. In addition, I’ve served as a peer mentor for three years, supporting younger students through guidance and encouragement. These experiences have deepened my understanding of children’s needs and how to support them with patience, structure, and attentiveness. I’m patient, observant, and good at matching kids energy, whether they’re super active or a little shy. I also volunteered at a Dementia Care Center, where I used art to connect with older adults, so creativity is a big part of who I am. My cultural awareness is another aspect of my personality. I enjoy arts and crafts, staying active, and practicing my Spanish (I’m an intermediate speaker). I also grew up with a Pomeranian-Papillon mix for over 10 years, so I’m totally comfortable around friendly pets! Finally, I am more than willing run errands, though I don't have a car, do light cleaning, light cooking, and light laundry.

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

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $23.35
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $28.02
  • 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.

1,347 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 $23.35 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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