
Housekeeping is an essential department within the hospitality industry, bearing significant responsibility and facing numerous challenges in daily operations. Far from merely cleaning, housekeeping is an art that can transform any place into a heavenly environment.
Housekeeping should not be limited to the concept of cleaning but rather seen as "cleansing." This department continually performs tasks to maintain an impeccable appearance of the property.
Changing Perceptions and the Impact of COVID-19
The world’s view of those involved in cleaning has shifted significantly, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It has become evident that housekeeping plays a crucial role in daily operations.
Housekeeping teams work tirelessly to provide a pleasant, perfect, clean, convenient, safe, and secure environment for guests, patients, and colleagues, often risking their own lives in the process.
The Backbone of Property Reputation
The reputation of any property is determined by its aesthetics and upkeep, both of which are maintained by the vital housekeeping department. This department is often referred to as the backbone of a property, not only for maintaining cleanliness but also for protecting the owner’s investment through meticulous attention to detail.
The Unique Skill Set of Housekeepers
Experienced housekeepers possess an "eye for details," enabling them to identify issues such as missing or misplaced items, defects, damages, smudges, dirt, and stains at a glance. This skill is unique to housekeepers and is passed down through continuous training and role-playing.
The Pride and Dedication of Housekeepers
Spending even a short time with a housekeeper on duty reveals their dedication and involvement in providing a safe and pleasant stay for guests. Housekeepers take pride in their work, treating their assigned areas as their own territory and ensuring everything is perfect.
The Human Touch vs. Artificial Intelligence
While the world moves towards artificial intelligence, robots can only follow procedures without any presence of mind. Although robots can clean a room, they cannot create memorable moments for guests. Housekeepers anticipate guests' expectations and preferences to deliver consistent, high-standard experiences that make guests feel at home.
The Housekeeping Creed
The global housekeeping community strongly believes in the quote, "We clean everything except the dirty minds." This sentiment underscores their commitment to maintaining high standards and ensuring guest satisfaction.
Housekeeping is not just a department but the heart of the hospitality industry. Through their dedication, skill, and pride, housekeepers ensure that properties are not just clean but welcoming and safe havens for all who enter.
About the author:
Shankar Mani is the Executive Housekeeper at Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Sohar, Sultanate of Oman.