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What a housekeeper does
A housekeeper keeps guest rooms and shared spaces clean, tidy and well-presented. The role covers cleaning, changing linen, restocking amenities and checking that everything is in working order for arriving guests.
In hotels, housekeepers may follow a room list and standard, work to tight turnaround times and report maintenance issues. The work is physical and detail-focused, and supervisory housekeeping roles coordinate teams and standards.
Core responsibilities
- Cleaning guest rooms and communal areas to standard.
- Changing linen and making up beds.
- Restocking toiletries, supplies and amenities.
- Checking rooms for damage or maintenance needs.
- Managing cleaning trolleys, products and equipment.
- Following hygiene, safety and chemical-handling rules.
- Handling lost-property and guest requests appropriately.
Skills and qualities
- Attention to detail and high cleaning standards.
- Reliability and good time management.
- Physical stamina for active shifts.
- Discretion and respect for guest privacy.
- Awareness of safe chemical handling.
- Teamwork and a willing attitude.
Typical employers and settings
- Hotels, resorts and boutique properties.
- Serviced apartments and aparthotels.
- Hostels, guesthouses and B&Bs.
- Holiday lets and accommodation providers.
- Care and residential settings with housekeeping teams.
How the role is recruited
- Roles are filled directly or through hospitality agencies.
- Screening focuses on reliability, standards and availability.
- Interviews are practical and may include a trial shift.
- Right-to-work checks are standard.
- Onboarding covers cleaning standards, products and room procedures.
Documents involved
- A job description outlining rooms, standards and shifts.
- An employment contract or agency assignment terms.
- An offer letter confirming role, hours and start date.
- Right-to-work and identity checks as required.
- A health-and-safety and chemical-handling induction record.
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