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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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Grace $20 per hour for 1 child

Hi, I'm Grace! I've been in DC for over 10 years and have always enjoyed doing occasional babysitting jobs while also working full-time. When I'm not working at a museum in DC where my work includes overseeing educational exhibits, field trips, and teacher content, I can be found walking my dog or visiting my nephews. I truly enjoy spending time with children and working with families over time to understand each personality and need. I have a range of experience from infant to school-aged as well as children with special needs. I'm here to help when you need the occasional day or night off.

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Kate $19 per hour for 1 child

Hi, my name is Kate! I have lived in Capitol Hill for the past four years, but I'm originally from St. Louis, Missouri. I am offering child care, household services and can help with any pets. I love being a babysitter and have a lot of experience watching toddlers and kids from a young age, including my cousin, who was born when I was 13! I babysat him multiple times a week until I left for college (and after), as well as other kids in my neighborhood. My older sister and mom are both elementary school teachers (kindergarten and 1st grade!), so I also have a lot of fun experience helping out in their classrooms! I grew up with a dog and currently have 2 cats, so happy to also help out with pets where needed.

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Jessica $25 per hour for 1 child

Hello! - My name is Jess and I'm a recently graduated Summa Cum Laude from Rochester Institute of Technology with a double major in American Sign Language Interpretation and Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies. I am offering nannying/babysitting services with included house care services as well as basic pet care. I love working with kids and have been babysitting/nannying for around seven years (since I was 15 years old). I have experience with infants, toddlers, and school age children. I have worked with a family with two children from age 18 months and 3 years old to now 7 and 9 years olds. My responsibilities included pick up/drop off from school/activities, tutoring/schooling, potty training, crafts, planning/organizing activities, managing schedules/play dates, meal prep, packing lunchboxes, light housekeeping, and swim instruction. I also worked at the YMCA as an 6 months - elementary age swim instructor as well as a lifeguard. I love arts & crafts will be sure to create lots with the children. Additionally, I love to bake and would be happy to make lots of fun (& healthy) goodies in the kitchen. I also will curate many indoor and outdoor activities to ensure lots of play time. (I love a good rainy day dance party!) Along with childcare, I also provide light housekeeping including picking up after the children, washing dishes, children’s laundry, and any other applicable household tasks. Due to my degree, I have fluency in ASL as well, so I am confident working with Deaf children and implementing ASL into care for hearing children. I am happy to work with families with pets as well as provide pet care for cats and small dogs. My services include feeding, walking, picking up after, enrichment, and play time. I am excited to meet you!

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Milagro $25 per hour for 1 child

Hello! My name is Milagro and I'm a Columbia University graduate working in the field of education. I'm bilingual -- Spanish and English. I have experience as a babysitter, summer nanny, homework helper, ESL Tutor, and SAT/AP tutor in Richmond, VA, NYC, and Washington DC. I love having the opportunity to really connect with the kids I take care of and being able to see them grow over time.

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Alyson $25 per hour for 1 child

Hello! If you are seeking a seasoned, kind, compassionate and highly intuitive caregiver, you have come to the right profile! My background in professional theater, education and special education have honed my innate talents in connecting with and providing positive and enriching experiences for the children and young adults with whom I have worked. My charges have included many children who are neurodiverse including those with Autism. I'm fit, active and energetic with "fun Auntie" or "cool (young) G-ma" vibes. But I'm also a more type B, caregiver who would be perfect for a child that needs a bit more of a nurturing presence rather than just a playmate. I also adore Dogs and am available to care for SMALL dogs.

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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

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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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