High-volume seasons can make or break a hospitality business. Whether it’s holiday travellers, event-packed weekends, or a booming tourist period, the influx of guests means higher expectations and, yes, a lot more mess. A spotless, well-maintained space is about creating a welcoming environment that keeps guests coming back.
Here’s how you can stay ahead of the cleaning curve during your busiest times with these practical hospitality cleaning tips.
1. Start with a Deep Clean
Before the crowds arrive, kick things off with a thorough deep clean of your property. Focus on areas that don’t get daily attention, such as:
- Carpets and Rugs: Remove deep-seated dirt and stains.
- Hard-to-Reach Spots: Ceiling fans, vents, and light fixtures.
- Upholstery: Refresh sofas and chairs to eliminate dust and odours.
A deep clean sets the tone for the season, making it easier to maintain high standards as things get busier.
2. Prioritise High-Touch Areas
During high-volume periods, germs can spread FAST. Pay extra attention to sanitising high-touch surfaces, including:
- Door handles and handrails.
- Elevator buttons and light switches.
- Reception desks, card payment terminals, and shared pens.
Regular sanitisation of these areas helps reduce the risk of illnesses, keeping guests and staff healthy.
3. Step Up Restroom Cleaning
Nothing leaves a bad impression faster than a dirty restroom. With increased foot traffic, restrooms need more frequent checks and cleaning.
- Schedule Regular Inspections: Ensure restrooms are spotless and stocked with essentials like soap and paper towels.
- Use Odour Neutralisers: Keep restrooms smelling fresh even during peak use.
- Focus on Floors: Wet or dirty floors are a safety hazard and an eyesore – make sure they’re mopped regularly.
4. Don’t Forget Outdoor Areas
Outdoor spaces like patios, entrances, and parking lots often see increased use during high-volume seasons. Keep these areas looking their best by:
- Sweeping debris and cleaning outdoor furniture.
- Power-washing walkways and entryways to remove stains and grime.
- Checking for overflowing rubbish bins to maintain a tidy appearance.
A clean exterior sets the stage for a positive guest experience before they even step inside.
5. Streamline Linen and Laundry Management
Linens take a beating during busy seasons. Stay on top of demand with these tips:
- Have Extra Stock: Ensure you have enough fresh towels, sheets, and tablecloths to handle quick turnovers.
- Schedule Frequent Pickups/Drop-offs: Work with your laundry provider to increase service frequency during peak times.
- Inspect for Wear and Tear: Replace stained or damaged linens promptly to maintain your standards.
6. Implement a Cleaning Schedule
Busy seasons demand a structured cleaning plan. Create a schedule that includes:
- Daily Tasks: Routine cleaning of guest rooms, public areas, and restrooms.
- Periodic Checks: Inspect high-traffic areas multiple times a day.
- After-Hours Cleaning: Tackle deeper cleaning tasks when guests are least likely to be around.
Assign responsibilities clearly so your team knows what’s expected and nothing gets overlooked.
7. Use the Right Tools and Products
Investing in professional-grade cleaning equipment and supplies pays off during high-volume seasons.
- Use Quick-Dry Solutions: Ensure floors dry fast to prevent slips in high-traffic areas.
- Eco-Friendly Products: Show guests you care about sustainability by using green cleaning products.
- Specialised Equipment: Carpet extractors, steam cleaners, and high-powered vacuums can handle the increased workload.
8. Train Your Team for Efficiency
Your cleaning staff is the backbone of your operation. Make sure they’re prepared for the high season by:
- Providing Refresher Training: Cover best practices for sanitisation, efficiency, and guest interactions.
- Encouraging Communication: Create an environment where team members feel comfortable reporting issues or asking for help.
- Recognising Their Efforts: Acknowledge hard work and keep morale high during busy periods.
9. Manage Waste Effectively
More guests mean more rubbish. Avoid overflowing bins by:
- Increasing the frequency of waste collection.
- Adding extra bins in high-traffic areas.
- Encouraging recycling with clearly marked containers.
A clean, waste-free environment makes a big difference in how your space is perceived.
10. Respond Quickly to Spills and Messes
Accidents are inevitable in high-volume settings, but how you respond can make or break the guest experience.
- Equip staff with portable cleaning kits to handle spills immediately.
- Display “wet floor” signs promptly to avoid accidents.
- Train employees to act fast and professionally when addressing messes.
11. Focus on Guest Rooms
Guest rooms are where your hospitality shines (or falls flat). During busy times, ensure every room meets top-tier cleaning standards:
- Inspect Daily: Double-check for overlooked spots, like behind furniture or under beds.
- Stock Essentials: Make sure rooms are fully stocked with toiletries and amenities.
- Freshen the Air: Use subtle air fresheners or open windows to eliminate stale odours.
12. Leverage Feedback for Continuous Improvement
Busy seasons are a great time to gather feedback from guests. Pay attention to comments about cleanliness and use them to refine your processes. Whether it’s online reviews or in-person conversations, guest feedback is a valuable tool for improvement.
A Clean Space Is the Key to Success
High-volume seasons can be chaotic, but a clean and well-maintained hospitality space sets the foundation for success. Guests notice the details, and a sparkling environment can leave a lasting impression that turns first-time visitors into loyal customers.
By planning ahead, equipping your team, and focusing on high-impact cleaning areas, you’ll be ready to welcome the rush with confidence. After all, a clean space isn’t just a reflection of your hospitality - it’s the cornerstone of your business.