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

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

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Ellie $25 per hour for 1 child

Hello! I am in my fourth year of teaching as a 1st grade teacher. I have nearly ten years of experience nannying/babysitting for children ages newborn-13 years old. I have always loved working with children-- I have a bachelor's degree in psychology and a master's of teaching from the University of Virginia.

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Erika $20 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Washington, DC

Hi! I'm a recent Georgetown grad staying in DC for the summer. I love to read, play sports, and enjoy hiking and the outdoors. I have three years of experience babysitting for kids ages 1-13 in the DC area. I also worked for 2 years as a camp counselor for ages 5-14. I love spending time with all kinds of kids, whether they are energetic and outdoorsy or they prefer to hang inside and read or color. My availability is super flexible this summer, and I am free most evenings and mornings! I also grew up caring for my dog, Lego, who recently just passed away. I'm really missing having a dog in my life, so would also love any opportunity to dog sit or dog walk! I am very responsible and reliable and, again, have very flexible hours this summer.

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Ella $20 per hour for 1 child

I have many years of experience babysitting and caring for children of all ages. I've worked as a babysitter throughout high school and worked part-time as a daycare teaching assistant during college. I'm very enthusiastic, kind and reliable. I can help with light housekeeping.

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Vanessa $25 per hour for 1 child

I am a 48 year old married individual who recently relocated to DC with my husband and dog! I am a patient advocate and speaker and I’m currently going back to school to get another degree — MPH in healthcare leadership. I love kids and have been around children of all ages my whole life. My husband have been like second parents to our godkids since before they were born. Because we were unable to have kids we have become the go to sitters for many friends and family members. As for the aging population — I am comfortable with them as well. My mom is 81 years old and I have travelled all over the world with her and help her in a variety of ways. I am also a great cook and a trained opera singer — fun facts! You can learn more about me at[removed] I am looking for some local jobs to help while I am working on my latest degree!

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Jessica $25 per hour for 1 child

As a former educator who has worked with children ages 8 to 14 (and younger!), I bring a caring and professional touch to every family I work with. My teaching background means I genuinely understand how kids grow and learn, I know how to keep them engaged and having fun, and I stay calm and patient no matter what the day brings. I'm bilingual in English and Spanish, which I love because it lets me connect with even more children and families in a meaningful way. I'm also a total animal lover! I have a cat at home and have happily looked after friends' pets many times, including some with special medical needs, so families with fur babies are very welcome. On top of childcare, I'm happy to help keep the household running smoothly too. Whether it's cooking a meal, tidying up, or getting things organized, I take real pride in leaving a home feeling a little better than I found it. I know how much it means to a busy family to have that extra support. Whether you need someone occasionally or a dependable go-to sitter you can count on regularly, I'd love to be that person for your family. Working with young, growing humans truly brings me joy and more than anything, I just love being a helping hand.

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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.

1,345 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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