Precision, consistency, excellence - these are the hallmarks of exceptional hotel housekeeping.

However, achieving these standards consistently in a high-pressure work environment is challenging.

A well-structured checklist ensures that housekeepers carry out every task correctly and to the exacting standards set out by their hotel.

From changing the bedsheets to replenishing toiletries, a comprehensive checklist ensures no task is forgotten. For housekeeping and hotel management professionals, this guide is an indispensable tool in delivering an unparalleled guest experience.

Note: The following are examples, not an exhaustive list, of what tasks housekeepers must carry out when cleaning hotel rooms.

Daily Sleeping Area Tasks

• Empty Bins

Ensure that all trash bins are emptied and sanitised. Replace emptied bins with fresh liners.

• Change Bedsheets

Remove used sheets, pillowcases, and other bed linens. Replace with fresh, crisply folded items.

• Make the Bed

Once the linens have been changed, make the bed per the hotel procedure.

• Dust Surfaces

Dust all surfaces, including nightstands, dressers, and headboards, to remove dirt and allergens.

• Vacuum Carpets

Thoroughly vacuum carpets, paying attention to edges and corners. This helps in maintaining a clean appearance and removing any hidden debris.

• Clean Windows and Mirrors

Wipe down all glass surfaces using appropriate cleaning agents. This includes windows and mirrors, promoting a bright and clear appearance.

• Disinfect Remote Controls and Light Switches

Carefully wipe and sanitise remote controls, light switches, and other high-touch areas using a disinfectant cleaner.

• Refresh Decorative Elements

Inspect and rearrange any decorative pillows, artwork, or other design features where applicable.

• Restock Amenities

Refill any complimentary items such as water bottles, tea, and coffee.

• Odour Management

Refill or spray air fresheners (https://unilever-professional.com/products/cif-air-freshener-5ltr) where applicable.

• Place Information Materials

Ensure all necessary information, such as room service menus or emergency procedures, is neatly placed and easily accessible for guests.

Daily Bathroom Tasks

• Clean Toilets and Bidets

Thoroughly scrub and sanitise the toilet, using a disinfectant toilet bowl cleaner, to ensure all surfaces are germ-free and gleaming. Where applicable, clean the bidet using appropriate cleaning agents.

• Wash Basins and Countertops

Wipe down sinks, faucets, and countertops with suitable cleaning solutions, removing any stains for a polished appearance.

• Scrub Shower and Tub

Clean the shower area and tub using specialised cleaning agents, paying attention to grout lines and drain covers.

• Disinfect High-Touch Areas

Sanitise handles, knobs, and other high-touch surfaces to minimise germ transmission.

• Clean Mirrors and Glass Surfaces

Use specialised glass cleaners on mirrors and other glass surfaces, ensuring clear and spotless reflections.

• Replace Towels and Bathmats

Replace used towels and bathmats with fresh items.

• Empty and Clean Trash Bins

Empty and sanitise the bathroom trash bin, replacing the liner with a fresh one.

• Restock Amenities

Refill essential amenities such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion.

Other Areas to Inspect

Daily Balcony Tasks

• Sweep and Mop Floors

Remove debris and stains by sweeping and mopping the floor.

• Clean Railings and Glass

Wipe railings and glass barriers with suitable cleaning agents.

• Clean Furniture

Check and clean any outdoor furniture.

• Tend to Plants

If applicable, water and groom any potted plants or flowers.

Daily Living Area Tasks

• Dust and Clean Surfaces

Dust and wipe all furniture, shelves, and decorative items.

• Vacuum Carpets and Upholstery

Thoroughly vacuum carpets and clean upholstery to remove dirt and keep fabrics fresh.

• Clean and Organise Workspace

Where applicable, clean and organise any desk areas, being careful not to disturb any documents/possessions the guest may have.

Daily Kitchen Tasks

• Clean Appliances

Wipe down all kitchen appliances, such as microwaves, coffee makers, and refrigerators.

• Wash Dishes and Utensils

Clean all dishes, utensils, and cooking tools using dishwash.

• Restock Amenities

Refill items like coffee pods, tea bags, sugar, and other essential kitchen supplies, according to the hotel's offerings.

• Empty and Clean Trash Bins

Ensure trash bins are emptied, cleaned, and lined with fresh bags.

Turn Over Tasks

• Full Room Inspection

Start with a detailed assessment of the room's overall condition, identifying any damages or maintenance needs to be addressed promptly.

• Deep Cleaning

This involves thoroughly cleaning all areas, including vacuuming carpets, mopping floors, wiping down all surfaces, and sanitising bathroom fixtures. Refer to the daily cleaning checklists for what tasks need to be completed.

• Replenish Amenities

Restock all amenities like toiletries, coffee or tea supplies, and other complimentary items the hotel offers.

• Checking and Cleaning Appliances

Inspect and clean all in-room appliances (TVs, phones, air conditioners, minibars etc.), confirming they are in proper working order.

• Furniture and Upholstery Inspection

Check and clean all furniture and upholstery for stains or damages, applying specific treatments if necessary.

• Odour Control

Use deodorisers or air fresheners to ensure the room smells fresh and clean.

• Final Quality Check

Conduct a final walk-through, following the hotel's quality checklist to ensure that every aspect of the room meets the standard of excellence.

• Report Completion

Document the completion of the turnover process, noting any issues or special attention needed for future reference. Communication with the front desk or management ensures that the room is marked ready for occupancy.