Hotel Cleaning Guide for 2025

Before 2020, many hotels were cleaned for appearance, not hygiene. If the bathroom floor gleamed, the carpet had vacuum lines, and the sheets were white and crisp, staff members were satisfied. So were most guests.

Not anymore.

In the post-pandemic era, customers want to know that hotels are cleaning for appearance and health! Here’s how to keep pace with shifting hotel sanitation protocols in 2025.

Clean First, Disinfect Second

Cleaning may remove visible dirt and germs from surfaces but doesn't eliminate pathogens. Disinfection is the critical second step that destroys remaining pathogens on already-cleaned surfaces.This is why more hotels are adopting the “clean first, disinfect second” approach. Cleaning first removes most contaminants, allowing the disinfectants to penetrate surfaces more effectively.

Use Safer, More Sustainable Products

Hotels have upped their cleaning regimens, which means employees and guests more frequently come into contact with harsh cleaning agents. Because of this, many hotels are switching to EPA-approved cleaning products that meet the agency’s Safer Choice Standards.

To meet these standards, products must:

• Be evaluated for human and environmental impact
• Contain safer ingredients
• Perform as well as conventional cleaning products
• Use sustainable packaging
• Have a safe pH level to reduce the risk of eye or skin irritation

Switching to these products doesn’t just keep team members and guests safe. It also conveys that you care about people and the environment. That’s powerful.

Care About Air Quality

Indoor air quality is often five times more toxic than outdoor air. Unfortunately, poor air quality can spread airborne pathogens, cause or exacerbate respiratory issues, and trigger allergies.

To protect team members and staff:

• Use high-efficiency air filters in your HVAC systems
• Regularly have air vents cleaned
• Add more air-purifying plants to your property
• Humidity and dehumidify, if necessary!

Adopt a Holistic Approach to Cleanliness

Historically, hotels prioritized cleaning certain areas over others—guests' rooms were considered more important than less visible or less frequently used spaces. As a result, many areas of the property were neglected. That won’t fly in 2025.

Now, guests expect consistently high cleanliness throughout the entire property. As you consider the future of hotel cleanliness standards, remember:

• First impressions matter. Your lobby is just as influential as a guest’s room
• Germs don’t discriminate between guest rooms and public spaces
• Clean “back-of-house” areas boost employee morale. Happy team members = happier customers
• Attention to detail reflects overall quality. What does that worn-out lobby chair or disorganized cleaning closet say about your brand and standards?

Your Partner in Post-Pandemic Cleanliness

With nearly 40 years of experience, Hotel Cleaning Services is the nation’s leading cleaning and hospitality provider. As leaders, we are committed to setting the standard for hygiene, safety, and sustainability in 2025 and well beyond. We invest in safe, medical-grade cleaning solutions and equipment, provide ongoing training and development for our employees, and exceed standards set by public health guidelines. It's a new era of cleanliness. Let us ensure you're ready. Contact us now!