Some guidelines for holiday tipping

The Emily Post Institute, named for the late etiquette expert, offers these suggestions for holiday tipping.

Peter Post, a great-grandson and director of the institute, emphasizes, however, that consumers should be aware of regional customs and weigh their budgets when deciding how much to tip.

• Baby sitter — One evening's pay, plus a small gift from your child.

• Barber — Cost of one haircut and/or a gift.

• Beauty salon staff — $10 to $60 each.

• Child's teacher (check school policy first) — A gift, not cash.

• Day-care providers — $25 to $70 each, plus small gift from child.

• Fitness trainer, massage therapist — Cost of one session.

• Garage attendants — $10 to $30 each.

• Housekeeper/cleaner — One day's pay.

• Mail carrier — Gift valued at up to $20.

• Nanny — One week's to one month's salary, plus small gift from child.

• Newspaper deliverer — $10 to $30.

• Nursing home employees, private nurse — A gift, not cash.

• Personal caregiver — One week's salary plus small gift.

• Building superintendent — $25 to $100.

• Doorman — $10 to $80.

• Elevator operator — $15 to $40.

• Handyman — $15 to $40.

• Trash, recycling collectors (check local regulations for municipal workers) — $10 to $30 each for private service.

• Yard or garden worker — $20 to $50.