Mummy Time: How much time do UK mums get to themselves?

 Our research uncovered that the average mother in the UK gets just 74 minutes of time to themselves every day, with this amount dropping to 52 minutes for mums with kids aged 3 and under. 

Over two thirds (69%) of mums wished they had more time dedicated to self-care and a further 63% said they felt that if they had more time for self care, they would be a better mother.

Mothers are always switched on, and the role of motherhood isn't one you can simply clock out of, even on weekends. In fact, 70% of mothers surveyed revealed that they are unable to spend a typical weekend looking after themselves as they spend the majority of the time doing household chores and looking after children.

As part of the research, we asked mothers how long they spend doing daily tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, taking their children to activities, and organising their household. 

From our findings, it’s clear to see why there is a lack of me-time available, as on average, mothers spend:

- 1 hour and 52 minutes doing housework every day

- 1 hour and 24 minutes cooking every single day

- 1 hour and 33 minutes each day on household admin such as shopping, booking activities and organising calendars

This alone totals up to mums spending an astounding 4 hours and 49 minutes per day running around after their families.

Alongside this, the average mum spends an extra 38 minutes driving their youngest child around every single day. 

When it comes to the split of household tasks and childcare, over half (59%) said they feel they do more than their significant other. 

In fact, two-thirds (66%) of mothers said they wish they had more help with daily household tasks, while a third (36%) have actually argued with their partner over the split of labour. 

When it comes to what mothers would like to take off their plates, cleaning is the chore they dislike the most as a third (36%). So, looking for a present for mum? Taking on the washing up duties is a good start.

From our research, it was revealed that almost half (46%) of mums surveyed said they find it difficult to balance working and being a mother.

But aside from working, there is also difficulty with balancing basic needs. Over half (56%) of mothers say that simple tasks such as washing their hair often get pushed to the side because of their children. 

And when it comes to a social life, there isn’t much of one. In fact, 65% say they see their friends less now that they are a parent. 

When asked, almost half (46%) said they feel lonelier after becoming a mother.

With so much time being dedicated to work and household tasks, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

From our findings, we discovered that two thirds (62%) of mothers experience mum guilt - a term given to mothers who feel like they don’t live up to their parenting expectations.

Mum guilt can lead to irritability, anxiousness, and even anger, so it’s important to take time for yourself to relax for both physical, and mental wellbeing, as this could potentially lead to parental burnout.

If you are struggling, reach out and seek support from trusted family members or friends, or visit your local GP for help and advice on dealing with mum guilt and parental burnout.

The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 1000 Mothers (aged 18+) with children who live at home under the age of 18. The data was collected between 24.02.2026 - 03.03.2026. Censuswide is a member of the Market Research Society (MRS) and the British Polling Council (BPC), and a signatory of the Global Data Quality Pledge. We adhere to the MRS Code of Conduct and ESOMAR principles.