The demanding nature of the hospitality industry often goes unnoticed, as those working in it face long hours and irregular schedules, truly embodying the role of unsung heroes. With time constraints and the rush to prepare numerous rooms before the 3pm check-in on a bustling Friday evening, it’s not uncommon for details to slip through the cracks.
During my stays at various hotels, I’ve encountered overlooked items like abandoned clothing, partially consumed beverages, soiled robes, and even stained linens in rooms that were supposed to be spotless. While these issues are noticeable at a glance, one aspect I pay close attention to is the cleanliness of the glassware.
While most hotel rooms offer a complimentary tea and coffee setup, my experience in the hospitality field has revealed that not all establishments thoroughly clean their cups before the next guest arrives, which can be quite off-putting. I’ve observed instances where housekeepers simply rinse the mugs in the bathroom sink, wipe them quickly, and place them back for the next occupant, a process that falls short of proper cleaning standards.
This practice extends to water glasses placed on sinks or bedside tables – a swift rinse and they’re deemed ready for use. While not every hotel may engage in this oversight, my personal encounters have made me cautious.
To address this concern, I now make it a habit to inspect and sanitize the glassware upon check-in, using boiling water from the kettle and a touch of hand soap as a precautionary step. This simple DIY sterilization routine puts my mind at ease, sparing me the need to request fresh glassware out of uncertainty about their cleanliness.
Although I empathize with housekeepers who juggle an array of cleaning tasks under time constraints, it’s crucial to ensure thorough cleanliness, especially when it comes to items like glassware. Some hotels have adopted measures like using plastic-wrapped cups or implementing strict glassware cleaning protocols to maintain hygiene standards. However, even seemingly pristine glassware may not always guarantee cleanliness.
Before settling into a hotel room, consider giving your mug a quick rinse with boiled water as a safety measure. For added reassurance, carry your reusable water bottle and request a fresh mug from the hotel bar to avoid any concerns about the cleanliness of shared glassware.
If you have a travel experience to share, feel free to reach out via email at webtravel@reachplc.com.