Why I Book Consecutive One-Night Stays: An MBAs Perspective on Hotel Cleanliness

Last Updated on October 22, 2023 by Robert C. Hoopes

Title: The Impact of a Housekeeping-Optional Model on U.S. Hotels: A Deeper Look at Travelers’ Frustrations

Introduction (50 words)
Many hotels in the United States have transitioned to a housekeeping-optional model in response to the pandemic. However, this change has caused some difficulties for travelers who are now required to request daily housekeeping services rather than assuming it will be automatically provided. The lack of clear communication has led to frustration and confusion among guests.

Body (250 words)
The pandemic has certainly reshaped the hospitality industry, and one significant change has been the adoption of a housekeeping-optional model in hotels across the United States. With the safety of guests and employees in mind, travelers are now required to explicitly request daily housekeeping services, rather than having it automatically provided during their stay. However, this transition has led to challenges for guests, especially when it comes to conveying their requests for bed making or towel replacements.

Many travelers have expressed frustration and confusion when dealing with hotel management regarding the provision of housekeeping services. Marriott, a prominent hotel chain, acknowledged that their housekeeping services vary by hotel segment. A spokesperson for the company mentioned that guests can personalize their preferences during the booking process. However, they did not comment on any specific incident.

One frustrated traveler, Abhishek Singh, has even come up with a hack to overcome the housekeeping issue. Singh books two rooms for one night each, frustrated by what he perceives as hotels’ deceptive behavior, especially considering the high room rates. Other frequent travelers share Singh’s sentiment, feeling that their frequent traveler status only results in apologies from hotel management and no real change to the housekeeping policy.

Hotel workers have also raised concerns about reduced cleaning being environmentally unfriendly and making their jobs more challenging. In response to such issues, Washington, D.C., implemented a temporary law requiring daily cleaning, highlighting the significance of this matter.

In a positive development, Hilton plans to reintroduce daily housekeeping this fall at select hotels. Industry experts believe that hotels will eventually revert to offering daily housekeeping services once consumer demand decreases.

Some travelers argue that doing their own cleaning would be more suitable for Airbnb stays rather than traditional hotel accommodation. This sentiment underscores the emerging divide between traditional hotels and the growing popularity of alternative lodging options.

Conclusion (100 words)
The shift to a housekeeping-optional model by many hotels in the U.S. has created challenges for both travelers and hotel workers. Frustration and confusion have become common experiences for guests who now have to explicitly request daily housekeeping services. The issue has made its way to Washington, D.C., leading to a temporary law mandating daily cleaning. However, as the hospitality industry continues to recover, experts predict that hotels will eventually return to daily housekeeping services, catering to the needs and expectations of their guests.