In the rapidly evolving hospitality horizon, housekeeping departments in Indian hotels face a unique set of pain points from maintaining hygiene standards to optimising operational efficiency and managing costs. Fortunately, a wave of emerging technologies is providing innovative solutions to these problems, says hospitality consultant Sanju Samuel, Managing Director, Tecxotic Pvt Ltd. Read on…
ROBOTICS
Traditional housekeeping often grapples with labour-intensive tasks and the need for quick responses to requests from guests. These can sometimes lead to inefficiencies and an impersonal touch. Robotics, specially curated for the hotel industry, can play an important role in resolving this issue. Let’s look at how robotics can help in housekeeping.
- Guest Request Deliveries: Simple amenities like towels, bathing products and slippers can be provided directly to guest rooms for prompt service, freeing up staff for more personalised interactions. Guests often complain that when such amenities are delivered by staff, the process is mostly slow or inconsistent.
- Robotic Cleaning Equipment: For vast spaces like lobbies, banquet halls and public areas, large robotic cleaning machines are already increasingly being used. These have significantly reduced the time and manpower required for routine cleaning of such areas
While the initial investment and the current limitations in programming for complex environments can be a hurdle,
the long-term benefits of increased efficiency and consistent service often outweigh these concerns. As technology advances, we can expect more sophisticated and cost-effective robotic solutions.
Maintaining a consistently high level of cleanliness, especially in high-traffic areas like bathrooms, is a constant challenge. This often involves significant use of chemicals, water and manual labour, leading to environmental concerns and higher operational costs
NANOTECHNOLOGY
Like robotics, nanotechnology can play a dominant role in ensuring durable hygiene. Once a futuristic concept, nanotechnology is now a practical solution for enhancing cleanliness and reducing resource consumption in housekeeping. Its application indeed offers a proactive approach to hygiene. The most impactful use is in nano-coatings for ceramic fixtures (washbasins, bathtubs, WCs) and increasingly, glass and tile surfaces in bathrooms. These coatings create ultra-smooth, hydrophobic and stain-resistant barriers. This addresses key pain points such as:
Let’s look at the solution nanotechnology offers.
- Stubborn Stains and Germ Accumulation: Nano-coated surfaces prevent the collection of dirt, grime and microbes, significantly extending the time between deep cleans.
- Excessive Chemical and Water Usage: Since dirt struggles to stick, cleaning becomes easier and requires fewer harsh chemicals and less water, leading to substantial environmental benefits and cost savings.
- Labour-Intensive Scrubbing: Imagine shower cubicles that rarely need intense scrubbing. Hotels can save significant
time per room, per day, by eliminating this arduous task.
The primary concern is the initial cost of installing nano-coated materials or applying aftermarket solutions. However, the long-term savings on labour, chemicals and water can quickly offset this investment. Crucially, proper training for housekeeping staff on the delicate care of these surfaces is essential to prevent damage and maintain the integrity of
the nano-coating.
SOFTWARE
Efficiently managing a large housekeeping team, tracking inventory and ensuring consistent quality across hundreds of
rooms can be a logistical nightmare. It often leads to delays and inconsistent service. So how does the industry manage operations and still ensure quality control? This is where modern software tools come in handy.
Here is how a good software system can improve housekeeping operations:
- Optimised Workflow: Modern software, often incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) and evolving algorithms, can
intelligently manage the workflow of every room attendant. This ensures that priority rooms are serviced first, guest requests are addressed promptly, and overall room readiness meets high standards. - Quality Assurance and Inventory Management: These systems offer additional benefits like scanning rooms via tablets or smartphones to identify variations from standards or missing items. They also provide real-time data on linen and amenity inventory, individual staff efficiency and recurring maintenance issues, enabling proactive problem-solving.
A potential drawback is the risk of system failures; software glitches or Wi-Fi outages could halt operations. The solution lies in
maintaining strong backup protocols. While embracing technology is essential, hotels must retain basic manual systems and ensure reliable reporting to guarantee uninterrupted service, even during disruptions.
“Finally, I can say that by embracing these technological solutions, Indian hotels can overcome significant housekeeping challenges, leading to enhanced guest experiences, improved operational efficiency, reduced environmental impact and, ultimately, I am confident, a more profitable and sustainable business.”