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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.
183 available today | Avg hourly rate: $23.33/hr

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

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Ellie $17 per hour for 1 child

Hi! I'm Ellie, a graduate student at American University with a passion for working with children and animals. Growing up as the oldest of five siblings with four younger brothers, I've always been surrounded by kids and have developed a natural ability to connect with them. I've spent the past several years working in various childcare and youth program roles, from managing an after-school elementary program to coordinating middle school activities through the Parks and Recreation department of my hometown, Kalamazoo Michigan. I love creating engaging, educational experiences for kids while ensuring they feel safe, heard, and excited to learn. I offer comprehensive childcare, petcare, and household services. This includes everything from babysitting and tutoring to dog walking and pet sitting, as well as light housekeeping, meal preperation, grocery shopping, and running errands. I have my own car and am comfortable with flexible scheduling. I have extensive experience with toddlers and elementary - middle school aged children. I spent a year helping manage an elementary after school program where I led activities, assisted with homework and reading, and implemented a positive behavioral reward system. For middle schoolers, I've assisted with bowling and archery programs. I also managed a community pool for four years where I regularly interacted with children of all ages, from toddlers to teens, and supervised summer camp groups. I love combining creativity with physical activity! I enjoy arts and crafts projects like painting, drawing, and photography, as well as singing and playing music. I'm also passionate about getting outside, whether its going on nature walks, playing active games, or just exploring the neighborhood. Reading together, helping with homework, and playing board games are also some of my favorites. I've had dogs my whole life and have pet sat for my family's dogs countless times. I have experience with several breeds including Havanese, Schnauzers, Labs, Airedales, and Poodles. I've also handled exotic animals like turtles, snakes, bearded dragons, and even alligators, while working for an alligator sanctuary! Having recently moved to the DC area from Michigan, I'm excited to bring my experience and enthusiasm to local families who need caring support. I'm reliable, responsible, and genuinely care about fostering a safe and fun environment for kids and pets. I'd love the opportunity to be someone you can count on!

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

Hello, I am Nancy. I am currently student at montgomery college. I’ve always loved being around kids—it’s something that comes naturally to me. With many nephews and nieces, I’ve spent years helping take care of them, and it’s given me so much joy and experience. Whether it’s playing games, telling stories, or just making them laugh, I love creating a space where kids feel happy and cared for. What I enjoy most is how unique every child is. They each have their own personality, and it’s so rewarding to connect with them and see them grow. Taking care of kids has taught me to be patient, creative, and understanding, which are qualities I bring to every family I work with. For me, childcare isn’t just a responsibility—it’s something I’m passionate about and genuinely enjoy doing.

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Jay $20 per hour for 1 child

Hello Families, My name is Jay, and I am currently an Educator with over 20 years of experience. I enjoy being a sitter and have watched children of all ages, from infants to teens. I am first aid certified and have a background check with a clean CPR report. When sitting, I love playing tabletop/board games, doing arts and crafts, and having a good dance party! I am happy to work with families with pets, can do light meals, and drive children to various events. I am available evenings, weekends, and overnight in special cases. I look forward to working with your family!

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Paige $21 per hour for 1 child

Hi! I’m Paige. As the youngest of five, I grew up surrounded by older siblings who shaped me into someone patient, adaptable, and easy to connect with. Being part of a big family made me naturally comfortable around children and helped me understand different personalities and family dynamics. I’ve also played a big role in raising my nephew since he was a baby (he’s 5 now). We have a very close bond, and caring for him taught me how to keep kids engaged, supported, and on a healthy routine. I’m thoughtful, communicative, and always make sure children feel safe, heard, and comfortable. Parents can expect consistent updates and clear communication from me. I can prepare meals, keep things organized, help with bedtime routines, and assist with homework. I’m also a mentor at my job, so guiding and supporting others especially kids comes naturally to me. I’m great with pets as well; I’ve had four dogs and I’m very comfortable around animals. I’m available evenings and weekends, and I pride myself on being reliable, responsible, and someone families can trust.

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Gilda $25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Washington, DC

Warm, dependable nanny based in the DC Metro area with a strong track record of caring for both infants and school-aged children. Bringing decades of leadership experience in architecture and operations management in Venezuela, I offer families a highly organized, calm, and nurturing presence. Since relocating to the U.S. to be closer to my children, I have embraced childcare with dedication and joy. I am attentive to developmental milestones, provide age-appropriate educational play, and foster a safe, structured, and enriching environment. Fluent in Spanish, First Aid/CPR certified, and culturally sensitive, I offer families reliable support, clear communication, and a deeply caring approach to every child’s individual needs.

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

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $23.33
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $28.05
  • Typical job length: 4.8 hours
  • Most requested times: Morning

As of October 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 5,704 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 October 2026, the average babysitting rate in Washington is $23.33 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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