If you’re in Shanghai or thinking about moving here, you’ll soon learn (or already know) that almost everyone hires an ayi. The English translation for ayi is ‘auntie’. People hire ayis for many reasons. Some hire them to help get their house cleaned up. Some assist with running errands or food preparation. You might even need one to help take care of a pet, etc., for instance. They are great if you are always on the go.
You can find some agencies on Smart Shanghai (probably a better idea if you’re looking for nannies in particular) or like many, find them through word of mouth.
Moreover, many have an ayi for childminding purposes as well. Many of them have lost a significant amount of work due to the influx of foreigners leaving Shanghai. The recent lockdowns haven’t help this, either. As a result, many have lost a large portion of their income. Loads of ayis are looking for work right now! Keep scrolling to get in contact with some ayis via their WeChat (just scan their QR code). They are available and ready for work in Shanghai right now!
Disclaimer: All ayis in this blog post are ones which I have used myself or friends have been recommended to me.
Awesome Ayi #1
First of all, Guozhen is my top pick. She is available for organisation and storage, ironing, cleaning and dog walking. Her rate is 50 RMB per hour. Guozhen is available in Xuhui, Jing’an and Huangpu. Contact her directly via the WeChat QR code above to ask her availability.
Guozhen is very well known and respected amongst everybody in Shanghai who hires her. She is very dedicated to her job and a meticulous cleaner. Guozhen also gets along very well with dogs! She walks mine and on one occasion when my dog was very sick she rearranged her schedule in order to accommodate me, along with sending me regular updates. In my opinon, she’s an absolute star.
Awesome Ayi #2
Secondly, Cui is another Shanghai-based ayi. She is available for cleaning and ironing clothes, washing dishes and tidying the house. Cui’s rate per hour is 45RMB. She is available to work in Xuhui, Jing’an and Huangpu in Shanghai. You can contact her directly via her WeChat QR code above to find out her availability. Cui comes highly recommended from one of my friends who hired her over the last year. Moreover, he said she did a great job every time!
Awesome Ayi #3
Finally, Wang Decui is my last recommendation. Despite the WeChat gender showing the male icon, she is female. She is available for ironing, tidying the house and storage. She can work in Xuhui and Pudong (depending on subway stops). Her rate per hour is 50 RMB. Contact her directly via the QR code above to find out her availability. She is another recommendation from a friend who spoke highly of her work.
There are some things to consider when hiring an ayi, before you get in contact. For instance, if there is something specific that you need them to do (or a specific area you would like cleaned), be specific in telling them the area you would like them to focus on. Also, check that they can do this task. Furthermore, if an ayi is not available when you would like them to come, ask if they have a friend who can instead. Ayis have a large network of contacts.
Last but not least, if you are giving things away such as clothing, furniture, etc., contact your ayi. Ask if they would like whatever you are trying to pass on. One person’s trash is another’s treasure. They can trade different items with so nothing goes to waste. I hope this helps and best of luck! Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to ayis. Let’s hope that you find one that suits you.
