Do you tip housekeeping when you stay at a hotel? See the surprises Jersey Joe gets when he does!

Hotel maids are experts when it comes to cleaning.  They have tips and tricks to turn a large number of rooms quickly.  Take a look at their cart for example.  They have everything they need within arm’s reach.

You can also use some of their tips to improve your cleaning at home.

1. They clean the clutter first – it’s easier to turn a room with a blank slate.
2. They prefer microfiber cloths – but in a pinch an old t-shirt or pillow case
3. Always turn a bed sheet so the tags are at the bottom.  The tags can help you figure out which is the longer and shorter end of the sheet.
4. Whack the drapes with a hard towel.  That will loosen the dust, then you can vacuum it up with the rest of the room.
5. Vacuum before you mop
6. Vacuum the high traffic areas first, then hit them a second time as you do the rest of the room.
7. Clean the bathroom last – it minimizes the transfer of bacteria
8. Some cleaners take several minutes to work. Read the bottle.  But, spray down the shower and toilet, go clean something else, then go back after several minutes to the let cleaner do it’s work.
9. White vinegar and water is the best cleaner
10. Always have a toothbrush on hand for the tough spots
11. Make yourself a little version of a hotel room cleaning cart.

THE 411

Name: Hotel maids and housekeepers

What: they clean hotel rooms daily

Location: hotels and motels around the world

JERSEY JOE RECOMMENDS:

Like I said in my blog, I try to tip each one $5 per night.  Most will restock the room shampoos and soaps, whether I need them or not.

My other hotel advice is to always make sure you have the DO NOT DISTURB sign on the door.  Some of these workers can start as early as 8am and could be pounding on your door, hours before check out!