6 hotel housekeeping tips
The smallest details can set your hotel apart. Whether it's an extra press of the bed linens, a subtle touch of non-chemical room spray, or a perfectly folded toilet paper roll, these thoughtful additions contribute to an exceptional guest experience. Over time, these small efforts build guest loyalty and reinforce your brand's commitment to quality.
Even the seemingly invisible matters
Guests may not check under the bed or behind the furniture, but that doesn't mean these areas should be ignored. Regular upkeep prevents dirt and dust from accumulating, making maintenance quicker and easier. By ensuring these spaces stay clean, your team can avoid the need for intensive deep cleaning later on.
Keep a well-stocked housekeeping cart
An organized housekeeping cart increases efficiency and reduces unnecessary trips to storage areas. When staff have all the essentials on hand, they can clean more effectively and ensure rooms are fully stocked. This not only boosts productivity but also helps prevent staff exhaustion in what is already a physically demanding role.
Don't neglect the corners
Crisply folded bed sheets with perfectly tucked corners make a noticeable difference. A well-made bed enhances the guest experience and sets the tone for a comfortable stay. Plus, neatly tucked sheets make it easier for housekeeping to refresh the bed during multi-night stays.
Have a system in place to alert maintenance
Housekeeping staff are often the first to notice maintenance issues, so having a structured reporting system is essential. A checklist covering key room elements - like plumbing, electrical outlets, and fixtures - ensures that any issues are flagged to maintenance before guests encounter them.
Check regularly for proper functioning
Beyond general maintenance, staff should routinely test room features, including power outlets, water pressure, toilets, light switches, and televisions. Proactive checks help prevent guest complaints and ensure a seamless stay.
Respond to service requests quickly
Timely responses to guest requests - whether for extra towels, pillows, or toiletries - play a crucial role in guest satisfaction. Optimizing internal communication and request-tracking systems can help staff fulfill these needs efficiently, leaving a positive impression on guests.
By focusing on these housekeeping best practices, hotels can improve operational efficiency, elevate the guest experience, and build long-term loyalty.
How to optimize your housekeeping operations
There are several key ways to optimize your housekeeping operations, and much of it starts with going digital.
Hotel housekeeping software should be a no-brainer
Gone are the days of managing housekeeping with an Excel sheet and manual room checks. There's no optimizing without first implementing hotel housekeeping software. The right software helps staff work more efficiently, reduces costs, and enhances the guest experience.
Housekeeping software improves task management, streamlines communication, provides real-time updates for faster room turnover, and offers a clear workload overview so everyone knows what needs to be done. The more cleaning and maintenance tasks are managed digitally, the smoother operations will be.
Leverage digital checklists
Building on the importance of housekeeping software, digital checklists are another simple way to improve efficiency. Instead of paper lists that can be misplaced, digital checklists allow staff to check off tasks as they go, keeping the front desk informed in real time. This not only helps staff stay organized but also provides a sense of accomplishment as they track their progress.
Rely on real-time updates
When your Property Management System has built-in housekeeping management, real-time updates replace the need for manual notifications. This means guests get to their rooms faster, and quicker room turnover creates opportunities for additional revenue.
Share arrival and departure information digitally
When your PMS has built-in housekeeping management, real-time updates replace the need for manual notifications. This means guests get to their rooms faster, and quicker room turnover creates opportunities for additional revenue.
Train your staff
Well-trained staff are essential for smooth housekeeping operations. When employees have a clear understanding of their responsibilities and the most efficient ways to complete tasks, overall performance improves. A well-trained team creates a positive environment that guests will notice and appreciate.
If you're introducing new technology, training should focus on demonstrating how it simplifies daily tasks. This helps prevent staff from feeling overwhelmed and instead shows them how digital tools make their work easier and more efficient.
Have clear SOPs
Standard operating procedures (SOPs) should be as clear as possible, outlining exactly how to clean each area of the hotel. Well-defined SOPs allow staff to complete tasks faster and more effectively, ensuring consistency in service quality.
Conclusion
Optimizing housekeeping operations isn't just about making life easier for staff - it's about improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing the guest experience. With the right tools and strategies, you can ensure your hotel's housekeeping department runs smoothly and delivers top-tier service every time.
Download our guide '10 Tips to Improve Your Housekeeping Operation'
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