9 Secrets Hotel Housekeepers Wish You Knew
Hotel housekeepers play a crucial role in making your stay as comfortable as possible; they often work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure your comfort and satisfaction. There’s a lot they wish guests knew to make the process smoother for everyone, so here are some insider tips to improve your experience and help you avoid common hotel mistakes.
Politeness Counts More Than You Think
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A little kindness goes a long way when dealing with housekeepers. A simple “please” or “thank you” can brighten their day and make the whole interaction smoother. When you’re polite, you’re not only showing respect, but you might also get an extra towel or pillow without even asking.
Don’t Tidy Up Before You Leave
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Making your bed may seem like a thoughtful gesture, but it actually creates more work for housekeepers. When they come in to clean, they’ll need to strip the bed anyway, so there’s no need to make it before you leave. Just leave it as it is and let the staff do their job.
It’s About More Than Clean Sheets
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Housekeepers wipe down surfaces such as door handles, light switches, and remote controls, which many guests frequently touch throughout the day. These surfaces can harbor germs, so even though housekeepers regularly sanitize them, it’s a good idea to give them a quick wipe yourself if you’re concerned.
The “Do Not Disturb” Sign Can Cause Delays
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That sign you hang on the door to keep your privacy may slow down the cleaning process. Housekeepers see the sign and assume you don’t want service. If you’re okay with them cleaning while you’re out, be sure to remove it, so they can get your room back in shape without hesitation.
Check the Front Desk
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If you can’t find an item, don’t jump to conclusions. Housekeepers follow strict protocols for lost items, and most turn them in to the front desk. Before panicking, swing by and ask if your item has been found. You may be surprised to find that it’s already there, waiting for you to pick it up.
Ask for Extras, Don’t Take Them
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It might seem like a small thing to grab an extra towel from the cart in the hallway, but it can disrupt the housekeeper’s workflow. Instead, ask the housekeeper or front desk if you need anything extra. They’re always happy to provide what you need without interrupting the flow of cleaning throughout the hotel.
Busy Times Can Mean Delays
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When the hotel is completely booked, it’s harder for housekeeping to stay on schedule. You may notice delays in having your room cleaned, especially during peak times such as holidays or major events. If you’re in a hurry, plan ahead to give housekeeping more time, or be prepared to wait a bit while they manage the workload.
Not Responsible for Repairs
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While housekeepers are fantastic at keeping your room clean and tidy, they aren’t in charge of fixing broken items. If something needs repair, such as a malfunctioning lamp or a faulty air conditioner, the best course of action is to contact the front desk. They’ll be able to send the right team to resolve the issue promptly.
Feedback Matters
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Housekeepers work in the background, but their efforts make a huge difference in your stay. If you’re satisfied with the cleanliness, letting the hotel know can go a long way. On the other hand, if something isn’t right, a respectful comment to the front desk helps them address the issue and improve service for future guests.
Your Mess Isn’t a Big Deal
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They are used to cleaning rooms in all kinds of states, so don’t worry if your things are scattered around. The real challenge comes with spills or sticky messes. A quick wipe-up before you head out can save the housekeeper a lot of time and effort.