What is the first thing you expect when you enter a hotel room? Cleanliness and a thoughtfully arranged space. Whether one is travelling for leisure or business, the least desirable scenario is encountering an untidy room with unpleasant surprises.
In the hospitality industry, maintaining cleanliness is a foundational aspect, and hotels aim to establish a hospitable atmosphere by ensuring that rooms are not only well-maintained but also thoroughly sanitized. This is especially important in today’s post-pandemic world, where everybody wants to ensure a safe and hygienic stay and avoid falling sick.
Trendsetters Facilities and Technical Services, the leading housekeeping services provider in India’s leading 5-star hotels, multiplexes, and resorts share the Dos and Don’ts of hotel housekeeping.
What to Dos of Housekeeping in India?
Some of the things to do are:
1. Be Kind
In the art of hotel housekeeping, kindness is the invisible touch that turns a stay into an experience. Imagine a weary traveller returning to find their favourite book delicately placed on their bedside table or a box of cookies kept on the centre table—a thoughtful gesture that transcends service and transforms a room into a haven. Kindness, like this, creates memories that linger long after check-out, weaving a tale of warmth and hospitality.
2. A detailed approach
In hotel housekeeping, meticulous attention to detail transforms a room into a haven. Who could resist the allure of walking into a space where the bed is impeccably made, each pillow is expertly fluffed, and not a single stray towel disrupts the scene? Such precision creates an atmosphere of luxury and care, ensuring guests feel pampered and valued. Small details make a big impact, turning a stay into an unforgettable experience.
3. Regular Training
Housekeeping staff must undergo regular training to stay updated on the latest cleaning protocols, technology, and industry standards. This ensures that they are well equipped to handle various cleaning challenges efficiently.
4. Communication with other departments
Teamwork is the heart of stellar hotel housekeeping. Seamless communication between housekeeping and other departments like the front desk, maintenance, and room service is key. Quick updates from the front desk help prioritize room cleaning, while maintenance fixes are flagged during cleaning. Coordinating with room service ensures timely tray pickups. This ensures guest satisfaction.
5. Think Sustainability
The use of sustainable cleaning products and energy-efficient equipment not only appeals to environmentally conscious guests but also contributes to a positive brand image. Guests appreciate the effort to minimize the ecological footprint while maintaining cleanliness.
What are the Don’ts of Housekeeping in India?
Some of the things not to do are:
1. Don’t Ignore High-touch Areas
Failing to pay extra attention to high-touch areas such as doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls can compromise the overall cleanliness of a room. These areas harbour germs and should be thoroughly disinfected during each cleaning session.
2. Don’t Forget Maintenance Checks
Regular maintenance checks for equipment and facilities are vital. Malfunctioning air conditioning, plumbing issues, or faulty electrical systems can disrupt a guest’s experience. Proactive maintenance ensures a seamless stay without unexpected inconveniences.
3. Don’t Disregard Safety Protocols
Wear the right gear, like sturdy shoes. Use equipment correctly, and watch out for wet floors or outlets. Don’t hesitate to ask your supervisor if you’re unsure about any safety rules. Your well-being matters!
4. Don’t be Rude
An impolite demeanour from hotel housekeeping staff can severely impact guest satisfaction, creating an unwelcoming atmosphere. This will result in negative online reviews that will tarnish the reputation of the hotel.
5. Don’t Neglect the Guest’s Privacy
Always respect guests’ privacy by refraining from entering their rooms without permission. Prioritize their comfort by knocking and waiting for acknowledgement before entering. If a guest seeks privacy, honour their request, and revisit when they’ve left or are available.
6. Don’t Forget to Take Guest Feedback
Guest feedback is a valuable resource for improvement. Ignoring or neglecting guest comments about cleanliness can hinder a hotel’s ability to address issues promptly.
Now that you know the dos and Don’ts of good housekeeping, cultivating a culture of kindness, attention to detail, ongoing training, seamless communication, sustainability, and safety is essential.