The world has changed a lot in the last few years, and the hotel industry is no exception.
Travel slowed dramatically in early 2020. Since then, hotel owners and operators have been adapting to keep their businesses profitable throughout the pandemic. As we emerge from the worst of the disruption, hotel operations must run with maximum efficiency.
This article pulls together housekeeping operation tips and tricks to help you save time and run a more effective service.
The importance of housekeeping operations
Housekeeping is central to hospitality. While the core task—cleaning rooms—has remained the same, processes have evolved over time.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly changed hotel housekeeping. Many hotels now clean rooms on an opt-in basis (sometimes charging extra) rather than providing automatic daily service. These shifts present an opportunity to rethink how housekeeping is managed and to introduce more efficient, safer procedures.
9 housekeeping operation hacks
- Track how long it takes to clean each room
Have staff time each room they clean. Suites and large rooms take longer, but tracking individual cleaning times helps identify efficiency issues and ensures rooms are cleaned thoroughly. An estimated average time gives staff a clear performance standard. (Tip: HelloShift’s cleaning app includes a timer feature for each room.)
- Create a checklist with a flow that makes sense
Standardize the cleaning method across your team with an ordered checklist. Example flow: open windows, spray chemicals, strip the bed, dust, then vacuum. Ensure every team member understands the process. The final item should be a last check of the room before leaving—your last look is the guest’s first look.
- Ask housekeepers to do simple maintenance checks
During cleaning, housekeepers should quickly check lightbulbs, power outlets, water pressure, and furniture stability. These checks take seconds but can prevent problems for the next guest. Flag issues immediately with maintenance for fast resolution.
- Centralize operations
Where feasible, cluster housekeeping operations under one central team managing multiple properties. Cloud-based housekeeping software makes it easy to sync teams across locations. If accounting, payroll, and marketing have been centralized for years, consider the same for housekeeping.
- Create a realistic and clear schedule
A realistic schedule reduces stress and improves performance. Allow enough time for unexpected issues. Use management software so jobs are clearly laid out and staff can access assignments on their phone or tablet while working.
- Laundry operations
Many hotels changed their laundry service to reduce contact. Linen changes may be performed only on request. Some hotels have increased wash temperatures per CDC guidelines and added extra steps in cleaning. Automated towel folders and ironers help create contact-free, cost-effective processes that reduce reliance on extra personnel.
- Keep track of supply amounts
Set minimum quantities (PAR levels) for each product and check daily so you never run out. Inventory features in management tools can automatically create tasks to maintain PAR levels, removing the need for manual daily checks.
- Streamline your roster
Schedule the same workers on the same shifts. This minimizes contacts (improving safety) and helps staff build working rapport. Teams that work together consistently tend to become more synchronized and productive.
- Invest in a management app
An operations platform can digitize processes—from guest messaging to housekeeping schedules. For housekeeping, a single tool that handles room assignments, early check-ins, time tracking, and maintenance requests makes operations smoother and less error-prone.
SoFLA Vacations put HelloShift AI Voice on the phone line so guest inquiries are answered around the clock, including the hours when nobody is at the desk to pick up.
From boutique inns to multi-property groups, hotels rely on HelloShift to never miss a booking. Our AI Voice answers calls 24/7, housekeeping teams stay in sync, and guests text instead of waiting. Everything in one app that is easier to use than Facebook.
Start your free 14-day trial today. No credit card required. Put AI to work answering every call, digitizing operations, and delighting guests.
From our own call data: Across 15 months of AI-answered guest calls, about 1 in 4 arrived outside 8am to 6pm front desk hours. Read the analysis.
