Why is the hotel now 3pm to 11am check out?

The Rise of the 3 PM Check-In, 11 AM Check-Out: Why Hotels Are Shifting Their Schedules

The traditional hotel check-in/check-out times of 2 PM and 11 AM are increasingly becoming a relic of the past. Many hotels are now adopting a 3 PM check-in and 11 AM check-out schedule, a change that, while seemingly minor, significantly impacts both the guest experience and the hotel’s operational efficiency. But why this shift? The answer lies in the crucial need for thorough room preparation and enhanced hygiene standards.

The extra hour between check-out and check-in is not simply a matter of convenience; it’s a critical window for a more comprehensive room cleaning process. This extended timeframe allows housekeeping staff to perform their duties more thoroughly and meticulously, ensuring a truly pristine environment for the next guest. This isn’t just about a quick wipe-down; it’s a multi-step process involving:

• Deep Cleaning: The extra time permits a more thorough cleaning of high-touch surfaces like light switches, doorknobs, and remote controls. This is especially important in today’s climate, where maintaining high hygiene standards is paramount.
• Meticulous Linen Changes: Replacing bedding, towels, and other linens requires time and care. The extended window allows for proper laundering and ensures fresh, clean linens are ready for the next guest. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it contributes significantly to guest comfort and hygiene.
• Bathroom Sanitization: Bathrooms require special attention to disinfection. The extended cleaning period allows for a more comprehensive sanitization of toilets, sinks, showers, and other surfaces, minimizing the risk of bacterial contamination.
• Comprehensive Vacuuming and Dusting: Thorough vacuuming and dusting of the entire room, including under furniture, contribute to a cleaner and more allergen-free environment. This level of detail is often impossible to achieve with a tighter turnaround time.

The result of this extended cleaning process is a noticeable improvement in the guest experience. Arriving to a freshly cleaned and sanitized room is significantly more welcoming and contributes to a more positive overall perception of the hotel. This attention to detail is especially valuable in a competitive market, where exceeding guest expectations is crucial for success.

While the shift to a 3 PM check-in/11 AM check-out might lead to some initial adjustment for guests, the long-term benefits – a higher standard of cleanliness, improved hygiene, and an enhanced guest experience – clearly outweigh any temporary inconvenience. This subtle change signifies a broader trend in the hospitality industry towards prioritizing guest well-being and delivering exceptional service through meticulous attention to detail.