Hilton has begun rolling out its new cleanliness programme across its properties around the world.
The company says the Hilton CleanStay programme, created in collaboration with Lysol and Dettol maker, RB and Mayo Clinic, will be implemented across its 18 brands by mid-July.
Hilton is among a number of hotel companies around the world that have introduced new cleanliness programmes to meet new health and safety concerns amid the coronavirus pandemic. Changes are being made to housekeeping, dining, as well as the check-in and check-out processes.
“Though our hospitality may look different in the short term, around the world we are eager to welcome our guests once more and create the unforgettable experiences they have come to expect from Hilton,”said Chris Nassetta, president and CEO of Hilton.
The company says guests can expect the following changes as part of its CleanStay programme:
The lobby
Guests who want a contactless arrival experience can check-in, choose their room, unlock their door with a “digital key” and check-out using their mobile devices through the Hilton Honors mobile app. Hilton says this option is available at “more than 4,700 participating Hilton properties worldwide” for guests who book directly through the honors app or from Hilton.com.
For guests who prefer a traditional check-in, physical distancing measures will be in place directing guests on how to move through the in-person check-in and check-out process in a safe way, according to Hilton.
The guest room
The first point of contact with the guest room will be with the Hilton CleanStay room seal “placed on the door upon being thoroughly cleaned”.
Hilton says the room will have “extra disinfection” of the most frequently touched guests room areas – light switches, door handles, TV remotes, and thermostats.
Housekeeping services
Hilton says while “guest rooms will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between guests”, housekeeping services during a guest stay will be based on guest preference “recognising that some guests may not want staff entering their room”.
Guests can also order additional amenities, such as linens and toiletries which will be delivered in “protective packaging” and placed at the guest room door, according to Hilton.
Changes at fitness centres and pools
Hilton says its fitness centres may be closed for cleaning “multiple times daily” and equipment will be placed to enable physical distancing. The number of guests in the centres “may be limited”.
Pool and pool areas will be “cleaned frequently throughout the day” and physical distancing measures will be in place. Stations with hand sanitiser and disinfecting wipes will be available throughout the property at primary entrances and in key high traffic areas, according to Hilton.
Food and beverage
In hotel restaurants, tables and chairs will be spaced to ensure proper physical distancing. Biodegradable, disposable dishes/utensils will be available upon request, according to Hilton.
During breakfast, restaurants will offer “grab and go” options, pre-plated covered items, à la carte and “assisted service”. When ordering room service where it is provided “guests will experience contactless delivery” with orders and single-use service-ware placed outside their guest-room door.
Hilton says during a stay, guests may encounter its staff using “creative ways” to welcome them and demonstrate their hospitality while wearing protective equipment and “staying respectful of physical distance”.
