Male hotel manager reviews notes in a modern hotel room as a female staff member adjusts the bedding, showcasing a stylish interior design


Cleanliness remains a top priority for travelers seeking accommodations around the world. A recent study found that prospective guests use online cleanliness ratings to determine which hotel they choose to stay at. In fact, 85 percent of visitors cite the quality of clean as a core contributor to their overall experience, highlighting how commercial cleaning executives should weigh client feedback in their company’s service models.

The report found Washington, D.C., and New York City are the cities with the world’s cleanest hotels, ranking third and sixth, respectively. On the other hand, Honolulu hotels were the dirtiest and received one of the lowest ratings (97 out of 100 cities). Although five-star rated hotels were cleaner than others, when comparing luxury and non-luxury hotels, there was no statistical difference.

These findings illustrate a trend driving cleanliness standards in the hospitality industry: Five-star service is no longer the goal but a baseline. Customer impressions are equally as important as a consistent clean, with travelers looking at odors, restroom care, building entrances, and linens as signs of a safe and hygienic facility. Moreover, in the digital age, an online review can attract or deter future occupants, which all comes down to the overall experience. Cleanliness is an important factor in an individual's stay and can build confidence in other services offered.

Read more about the study and how guest experience is based off how clean a facility is here.