This paper explores the relationship between tasks domestic workers perform and the characteristics of their contracts in Portugal. We worked on an original dataset and used a fuzzy clustering approach to identify groups of tasks and the associated contract features. The results show that caregivers mostly enjoy formal and stable contracts, whereas flexible and informal work arrangements prevail in clusters of cleaners. However, formality and stability are associated with low wage, long working time and single job; workers with multiple employers are compensated for their non-productive time. We give a different picture of domestic work in one Southern European country.

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domestic work,care services,labour market segmentation,Portugal