housekeeping checklist for hotels

Standard Operating Procedure: Guest Room Sanitation and Maintenance

Document Control

• Document ID: SOP-HK-[__________]
• Version: [__________]
• Effective Date: [__________]
• Review Cycle: [__________]

1. Purpose & Scope

This document defines the systematic process for room turnover and maintenance at [Property Name]. The objective is to ensure consistent sanitation, aesthetic presentation, and functional integrity for every guest arrival. This SOP applies to all housekeeping staff and room inspectors operating within the facility.

2. Prerequisites

• Tools: Microfiber cloths, vacuum cleaner with HEPA filter, mop, long-reach duster, glass cleaner, disinfectant (EPA-approved), toilet bowl cleaner, multi-surface polish.
• Materials: Fresh linens (sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers), fresh towels (bath, hand, washcloths), amenity kit, stationery, replenishment supplies (coffee, tea, water).
• Access: Master keycard/digital access code for [Room Number], Room Status Terminal access.

3. Roles & Responsibilities (RACI)

R=Responsible, A=Accountable, C=Consulted, I=Informed

4. Step-by-Step Procedure

Phase 1: Preparation and Ventilation

• Knock three times and announce: "[Company Name] Housekeeping."
• Open windows/balcony doors to circulate air.
• Remove all soiled linens and trash from the room.
• Inspect room for any maintenance issues (leaks, light bulbs, carpet stains).

Phase 2: Sanitization and Cleaning

• Apply disinfectant to bathroom surfaces and allow dwell time per manufacturer instructions.
• Dust all high-touch surfaces (light switches, remote controls, door handles).
• Clean mirrors, windows, and glass surfaces.
• Scrub bathroom vanity, toilet, and shower/tub.
• Vacuum/mop floors starting from the furthest corner toward the exit.

Phase 3: Bedding and Amenities

• Strip mattress protector and replace if necessary.
• Remake bed with fresh linens, ensuring hospital corners and taut duvet.
• Place fresh towels in designated racks.
• Replenish guest amenities (soaps, shampoos, stationery).
• Restock minibar/beverage station.

Phase 4: Final Quality Check

• Verify functionality of all electronic devices (TV, lamps, thermostat).
• Perform "smell test" to ensure room freshness.
• Close and lock windows.
• Update room status to "Ready for Inspection" in [System Name].

5. Quality Assurance, Pro-Tips, and Pitfalls

• Quality Assurance: All rooms must pass a 20-point inspection check before being released to the Front Desk.
• Pro-Tip: Use a "top-to-bottom, back-to-front" cleaning methodology to ensure no surface is missed and cross-contamination is avoided.
• Common Pitfall: Forgetting to wipe the underside of the vanity or the remote control—these are the most common guest complaints regarding cleanliness.

6. FAQs

Q: What should I do if I find guest property left behind? A: Do not discard any items. Immediately bag the item, label it with the room number and date, and deliver it to the [Department Name] Lost and Found office.

Q: How do I handle a room that smells of smoke or strong odors? A: Do not attempt to mask the odor with heavy fragrances. Report the room to your supervisor for professional ozone treatment or deep carpet extraction.