1. ARTICULATE WELL-DEFINED STANDARDS & PROCESSES:
“Sustainable” or “environmentally responsible” cleaning does not require compromised outcomes. Many of today’s best cleaning solutions and delivery systems clean as well as or better than the products they will replace. Make sure guests give a perfect rating for cleanliness by understanding how to get optimal performance from the cleaning products you present — then make sure staff is trained on those best practices and applies them consistently.
2. CHOOSE CLEANING PRODUCTS WITH THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE IN MIND:
Effective cleaning of guest rooms, lobbies, restaurants and other areas most frequented by guests requires constant attention. This means guests — and staff — will be regularly exposed to the cleaning solutions selected. Choose solutions that have the best outcomes in terms of exposure risks and air quality.
3. TRAIN & TEST ON THE SELECTION, HANDLING & APPLICATION OF CLEANING PRODUCTS:
The truth is, housekeepers often grab whichever cleaning solution is handy, regardless of whether it’s the right product for the surface or the job at hand — or whether it presents risks to guests or themselves. The results can be costly, especially when dealing with sensitive surfaces, such as marble. And a lack of understanding and poor technique in handling products often leads to spills and accidents. Make sure all staff understand the cleaning products they are using and know how to handle, deploy and dispose of them properly.
4. FACTOR IN PACKAGING WHEN CHOOSING CLEANING PRODUCTS:
Consumers are increasingly aware of your customer’s impact on the environment — and two of the most telling metrics are carbon footprint and disposal of waste. Keep this in mind when choosing cleaning solutions. The design of the solutions themselves and their packaging has a direct impact on both transportation costs and its carbon footprint. Also, spray bottles and other containers often end up in landfills — especially if the product is highly diluted before shipment. Take time to understand the information, choices and implications.
5. MITIGATE THE IMPACT ON LOCAL WATER SUPPLY:
Cleaning and disinfecting solutions inevitably make their way to the sewer — and to the broader water ecosystem in your area. Scrutiny of water supplies and the chemicals impacting them is increasing. Businesses that behave responsibly in terms of what they are sending into local sewer systems will be rewarded with strong brands and enhanced reputations. Help your customers understand the cleaning and disinfecting solutions they choose — and make sure the staff is trained in the safe and responsible handling of them.
Using these five tips to build a core sustainability plan gives your customers a solid foundation for the future. If they can get these basic practices in place and perfect them, they can expand and create more advanced sustainability programs that will lead to even greater business success.