23% of hotels and 16% of guesthouses reported using eco-friendly cleaning products. Though a smaller percentage, this statistic shows a growing interest in reducing harmful chemicals, benefiting both the hotel environment and guest health.
Research proves that 88% of hotels and 89% of guesthouses have adopted waste separation measures, while 85% of hotels and 86% of guesthouses have implemented water-saving measures.
These statistics highlight the importance of eco-friendly practices in sustainable hospitality.
Let us explore this topic in more detail.
Key takeaways:
- Environmental Challenges in Hotel Cleaning
- Benefits of Eco-Friendly Hotel Cleaning
- Selecting the Right Eco-Friendly Approach
- Steps to Implement Eco-Friendly Cleaning in Your Hotel
- FAQs
Environmental Challenges in Hotel Cleaning
Most commercial cleaning agents come with harsh chemicals such as laundry and dishwasher detergents, that are most often used in hotels.
These detergents contain phosphates, which soften water and stop mineral buildup that impacts water pollution.
When cleaning products containing phosphates are washed down drains, they often end up in water systems.
This contributes to eutrophication (excessive nutrient loading) in water bodies, leading to algae blooms.
As algae decompose, they release methane and nitrous oxide, potent greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.
As per Research, around 25% of phosphates in wastewater are generated from detergents.
In some cleaning agents, VOCs and other harmful chemicals are used alongside phosphates, contributing to air pollution.
VOCs are released into the air during cleaning and contribute to smog formation.
Other cleaning chemicals commonly used in hotels are ammonia and chlorine.
They release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and toxic fumes that contribute to poor indoor and outdoor air pollution.
According to the non-profit organization EWG, VOCs from cleaning products can contaminate indoor air 2–10 times more than outdoor air, with some products emitting VOCs for extended periods.
Therefore, guests increasingly demand eco-friendly cleaning environments that offer a luxurious experience while ensuring the services are environmentally safe and sustainable.
According to PwC, clients are willing to pay 9.7% more for sustainable items, even despite inflationary price increases.
Although not directly related to hotel cleaning, this confirms that clients prefer sustainable packaging and practices.
Benefits of Eco-Friendly Hotel Cleaning
Now, let’s go through the benefits of eco-friendly cleaning in the hospitality industry.
Long Term Cost Saving
When you start using eco-friendly cleaning agents, it might seem costly at first, but over time it will prove to be cost-effective.
Reusable, refillable, and biodegradable cleaning products mean less money spent on new supplies over time.
By using reusable cleaning cloths, such as microfiber instead of disposable materials, you reduce the amount of waste that needs disposal.
Healthier Environments for Guests and Staff
Most guests are sensitive or have allergy issues. By using non-toxic cleaning agents, you reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
You can also eliminate the chances of adverse reactions, skin irritation, or respiratory issues.
Harsh chemicals, such as VOCs, release chemical gases and airborne toxins.
Using non-harsh or eco-friendly cleaning agents means fresher and safer air.
Another benefit of using eco-friendly cleaning agents is that harsh chemicals often leave residues on high-touch surfaces, which guests may come in contact with.
Boosting Your Hotel’s Reputation
When you, as a hotel manager, portray your commitment to offering eco-friendly services to guests, you create a positive image for your hotel.
Through word of mouth, social media, and other media coverage, when you show your commitment to eco-friendly practices, there’s a strong likelihood that people will prefer to stay at your hotel, boosting its reputation.
Challenges in Moving to Eco-Friendly Hotel Cleaning
It can be stressful when you decide to move to eco-friendly hotel cleaning, especially if you want to shift quickly. A gradual shift may be easier to manage if you have a busy schedule.
Cost Might be High
Compared to traditional cleaning products, eco-friendly products are more expensive.
This is due to the price of sustainable ingredients, smaller production quantities, and investment in research and development.
Hotel owners or supervisors may feel reluctant to implement change, especially when cash is involved, as requests for business changes can be hard to convince them.
That’s why managers or supervisors may prefer to keep the business operating as it is, rather than changing it.
Solution
Having a prepared document that outlines how switching to eco-friendly products can boost the hotel’s reputation and guest experience can help convince management.
Having good communication and presentation skills can also help you persuade management.
Changing Operational Habits
Resistance can occur when business operations change, especially if in-house staff face challenges in learning new methods or fear being fired for not understanding them.
Additionally, some may think that eco-friendly hotel cleaning doesn’t work as well as traditional methods.
Solution
Well, if handled properly, this won’t be an issue. Provide proper training rather than hiring new staff.
One more thing you can do is implement the greener routine gradually, rather than all at once, as previously discussed.
Start by introducing eco-friendly products gradually.
Provide proper training for your staff and emphasise the health benefits of these products, both for them and your guests.
By guiding and communicating effectively, you can create a sustainable culture at your hotel.
Selecting the Right Eco-Friendly Approach
To create a sustainable cleaning culture in your hotel, we recommend first allocating your budget and being prepared for the upfront cost to reduce your future costs. Sustainable cleaning products tend to last longer, and they can help reduce other operational costs, like water and energy usage, over time.
Furthermore, many governments offer tax incentives (such as deductions or credits) to businesses that adopt environmentally friendly practices.
Regarding the hotel cleaning staff, they should be trained to use EcoCert and Green Seal-certified products effectively and understand why they are being used.
The Green Key Award is another leading international eco-label for tourism businesses, including hotels. The award focuses on environmental performance. While it’s a certificate for the hotel itself, it requires staff to adhere to strict environmental criteria.
Additionally, investing in energy-efficient cleaning equipment, like microfiber mops and energy-saving vacuums, can make a significant impact on your operational costs over time.
Steps to Implement Eco-Friendly Cleaning in Your Hotel
Here’s a simple guide to help you get started:
Assess Your Current Cleaning Practices
First, learn what cleaning agents you are using and understand the ingredients. If any ingredients are harmful to the environment, it’s time to replace them. Also, check equipment that can be replaced with eco-friendly options, such as replacing chemical-based vacuums with energy-efficient vacuums. This will give you a baseline to know what needs to change.
Research Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
After evaluating each of the cleaning equipment, tools, and agents, learn which need to be replaced. Look for alternatives in the market that are certified as eco-friendly, such as those with the Green Seal or EPA Safer Choice labels. You don’t have to replace everything at once but start by swapping out the most used products.
Train Your Staff
After or before replacement, we recommend training your cleaning staff on how and why you are going to use these alternatives. They should be skilled in handling the products properly and understand why these changes are important.
Monitor and Adjust
After implementing these changes, monitor the results. See how the new eco-friendly hotel cleaning methods are working and if they’re making a positive impact. Don’t be afraid to adjust along the way.
Communicate with Your Guests
Let your guests know about the changes you’re making to become more eco-friendly. You can add a note to their rooms or mention it on your website or start a campaign. You can also add this to your logo and all other branding materials. This can help attract guests who care about sustainability and give your hotel a competitive edge.
Why You Should Act Now for a Sustainable Future for Your Hotel Cleaning
As per the Booking.com survey, around 80% of tourists prefer an eco-friendly environment, and 74% of them believe eco-friendly actions should be taken right now.
This growing demand shows that hotels should start adopting eco-friendly practices to secure a solid position in the eyes of guests.
Contact Innovative Cleaning Services for eco-friendly hotel cleaning services and support.
FAQs
What are the benefits of using eco-friendly cleaning products in hotels?
Eco-friendly cleaning products help reduce harmful chemical exposure to guests and staff, and lower operational costs in the long run by reducing waste and energy consumption.
How do eco-friendly cleaning methods help reduce a hotel’s carbon footprint?
Eco-friendly cleaning methods, such as using biodegradable products, reducing water and energy use, and minimising chemical waste. This contributes to a hotel’s overall sustainability, directly reducing its carbon footprint. As a result, it lowers electricity consumption and promotes recycling.
What certifications should hotels look for in eco-friendly cleaning products?
Hotels should look for certifications like Green Seal, EPA Safer Choice, or products with eco-labels that meet sustainability standards.
How can I convince my hotel management to adopt eco-friendly cleaning?
Be proactive and well presented. In your presentation, highlight the long-term cost savings, such as reduced energy and water usage, and the growing demand for eco-conscious accommodation among travellers. You can also point out that implementing eco-friendly practices can improve the hotel’s reputation and guest loyalty.
How long does it take to shift to eco-friendly hotel cleaning?
The shift can take a few months to a year, depending on the size of the hotel and the extent of the changes.
