Introduction
The housekeeping department of a hotel
plays a pivotal role in ensuring guest satisfaction by maintaining cleanliness,
hygiene, and aesthetic appeal of the property. A key element that contributes
to this function is the effective use of cleaning
agents. These agents, when selected wisely and used properly, help
maintain the hotel’s surfaces, prolong asset life, and ensure a healthy
environment for both guests and staff.
What Are Cleaning Agents?
Cleaning agents are
chemical or natural substances used to remove dirt, stains, dust, odors, and
microorganisms from various surfaces. These may include solutions, powders,
gels, or sprays specifically designed for tasks such as floor cleaning, window
washing, bathroom sanitation, and polishing.
General Criteria for
Selection of Cleaning Agents
The choice of
cleaning agents is crucial to ensure effective cleaning, safety, and
cost-efficiency. The following criteria help in selecting the right product:
1. Nature of Surface
Different
materials (wood, glass, metal, marble, vinyl) require specific cleaning agents.
For example, acidic cleaners may damage marble but work well on toilet bowls.
2. Type of Soil or Dirt
Some cleaning
agents are more effective against grease, while others target dust, stains, or
mineral deposits. Understanding the kind of dirt helps in selecting the right
formulation.
3. Effectiveness
A good cleaning
agent should clean effectively in a short time with minimal effort. It should
dissolve or lift dirt without damaging the surface.
4. Safety for Users and
Environment
Agents should be
non-toxic, non-irritating, and preferably biodegradable. Products must have
clear labeling and instructions for safe handling.
5. Compatibility with Equipment
Cleaning
solutions should be suitable for use with housekeeping equipment like vacuum
cleaners, scrubbers, and polishers.
6. Cost and Availability
The selected
product must offer value for money and be easily available for bulk
procurement.
7. Storage and Shelf Life
Cleaning agents
must have a reasonable shelf life, and be safe and easy to store.
8. Fragrance and Aesthetics
Agents with mild
fragrances can enhance the guest experience. However, strong or artificial
smells may cause discomfort.
Types of Cleaning Agents Used
in Housekeeping
Cleaning agents
are broadly categorized based on their chemical nature and usage:
1. Water
· Acts as a
universal solvent.
· Used for rinsing
and diluting.
2. Detergents
· Break down grease
and dirt.
· Available as
powders, liquids, and bars.
3. Degreasers
· Stronger than
detergents; used in kitchens.
· Dissolve oil and
grease on surfaces.
4. Disinfectants
· Kill bacteria
and viruses.
· Used in
bathrooms, kitchens, and high-touch areas.
5. Acid Cleaners
· Remove mineral
deposits, rust, and scale.
· Used cautiously
due to corrosive nature.
6. Abrasives
· Contain
particles for scrubbing.
· Used on tough
stains but may damage delicate surfaces.
7. Solvent Cleaners
· Remove paint,
ink, adhesive residues.
· Used in
maintenance and deep cleaning tasks.
Polishes in Housekeeping
Polishes are
cleaning agents designed to enhance the appearance and prolong the life of
surfaces by creating a protective or glossy finish.
Types of Polishes
1. Metal Polishes
· For silver,
brass, chrome, and stainless steel.
· Often contain
mild abrasives and tarnish inhibitors.
2. Furniture Polishes
· Used on wooden
furniture.
· Available in
wax-based, oil-based, and aerosol forms.
3. Glass Polishes
· Provide
streak-free shine to mirrors and windows.
· Alcohol-based
sprays are common.
4. Floor Polishes
· Used on tiles,
vinyl, and marble flooring.
· Often include
wax or polymer for added shine and protection.
Application Tips
· Always apply
polish with a soft, lint-free cloth.
· Use in small
amounts to avoid residue.
· Follow the grain
of wood or metal where applicable.
Floor Sealers and Floor
Finishes
What Are Floor Sealers?
Floor sealers are
chemical products used to seal porous flooring materials (like stone, terrazzo,
or wood) to protect them from moisture, dirt, and stains.
Types of Floor Sealers
1. Penetrating Sealers
· Absorbed into
the floor material.
· Provide deep
protection.
2. Surface Sealers
· Form a
protective layer on top.
· Enhance
appearance and ease of cleaning.
Benefits of Floor Sealers
· Increase
durability.
· Protect against
scratches, spills, and scuff marks.
· Facilitate
easier cleaning.
Use, Care, and Storage of
Cleaning Agents
Proper handling
of cleaning agents ensures staff safety, cost control, and environmental
responsibility.
1. Use
· Dilution: Always dilute
concentrated chemicals as per manufacturer instructions.
· Right Quantity: Avoid overuse,
which wastes resources and may damage surfaces.
· PPE (Personal Protective
Equipment): Staff must wear gloves, goggles, and masks when handling
strong chemicals.
· Label Reading: Check
instructions, expiry dates, and hazard symbols.
2. Care
· Follow MSDS (Material Safety
Data Sheet): Understand potential hazards and first aid measures.
· Do Not Mix Chemicals: Mixing
different agents can release toxic fumes or reduce effectiveness.
· Clean After Use: Tools and
containers should be washed and dried after use.
3. Storage
· Cool, Dry Place: Store away
from direct sunlight and heat sources.
· Lockable Cabinets: Chemicals
should be kept in locked cupboards to prevent unauthorized access.
· Labeling: All bottles
and containers must have clear labels.
· Separate Incompatible Agents: Store acids
and alkalis separately to prevent reactions.
Distribution and Controls in
Housekeeping
Ensuring that
cleaning agents are available where needed, while avoiding misuse or wastage,
requires organized distribution and control mechanisms.
1. Centralized Storage
A central housekeeping store typically
holds bulk stocks of cleaning supplies. These are distributed in smaller
quantities to floors or units as per requirement.
2. Floor Pantries
Each guest floor
usually has a floor pantry or housekeeping
closet stocked daily with the required materials for that floor.
3. Daily Issue and Logbook
· Cleaning staff
receive daily supplies against signature.
· A logbook or checklist is
maintained for tracking usage and replenishment.
4. Inventory Management
· Par Stock Levels: Minimum
quantity that must always be available.
· FIFO (First In First Out): Ensures old
stock is used before new to avoid expiry.
· Audits: Regular audits
help prevent theft, overuse, and spoilage.
5. Waste Management
· Monitor the
quantity of unused or discarded chemicals.
· Encourage
eco-friendly alternatives and waste segregation.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
With increasing
environmental concerns, hotels are adopting green cleaning agents:
· Biodegradable cleaners made from
plant-based ingredients
· Enzyme-based cleaners
for grease and organic waste
· Microfiber cloths that
reduce the need for chemicals
· Vinegar, baking soda, and
lemon for natural cleaning
Using
eco-friendly products enhances a hotel's brand image and supports sustainable
tourism practices.
Training and SOPs (Standard
Operating Procedures)
Proper use of
cleaning agents depends on the training of housekeeping staff. Key elements of
training include:
· Understanding
different cleaning agents and their applications
· Safe dilution,
mixing, and disposal procedures
· Usage of PPE
· Emergency
measures in case of spills or accidents
· Reading MSDS
sheets and hazard symbols
