Hilton hotels set new cleanliness standards

New Delhi: Global hospitality major Hilton on Tuesday announced a worldwide roll-out of a new programme to deliver an industry-defining standard of cleanliness and disinfection to its properties.

The programme, Hilton CleanStay, created in collaboration with Lysol and Dettol maker RB and Mayo Clinic, includes new procedures to help Hilton guests enjoy an even cleaner and safer stay starting this summer.

Hilton and RB have expanded this partnership to support the global portfolio of hotels.

"As the hospitality industry evolves to address travellers' changing expectations – especially in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic – Hilton CleanStay is the latest evolution of our commitment to providing the peace of mind and confidence our guests need to travel freely while protecting our team members," Chris Nassetta, President and CEO of Hilton, said in a statement.

Hilton guests can expect to begin seeing changes in some hotels around the world starting Monday, with Hilton CleanStay implemented across Hilton's 18 brands by mid-July.

Even before they travel, guests will find a new landing page on their website which will detail what they can expect during their stay.

In addition, property websites will be updated to indicate that the new cleaning protocols and procedures have been implemented.

Guests who desire 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 free Hilton Honors mobile app.

This option is available at more than 4,700 participating Hilton properties worldwide for guests who book directly via the Honors app or at 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.

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, the hospitality major said.

The room will have extra disinfection of the most frequently touched guest room areas -- light switches, door handles, TV remotes, thermostats, and more.

Rooms will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between guest occupancies. Housekeeping service during a guest stay will be based upon guest preference, recognising that some guests may not want staff entering their room.

Additional amenities such as linens and toiletries will be available upon request, delivered in protective packaging, and placed at the guest room door.

Hilton said that there will be an increased frequency of cleaning public areas and in hotel restaurants, tables and chairs will be spaced to ensure proper physical distancing.

The upcoming Hilton EventReady with CleanStay programme will set a new standard for meetings and events at Hilton, the company said.

This program will deliver cleanliness, flexibility, safe and socially responsible solutions, along with creative food and beverage, the latest technology and sustainable practices, it added.

Hilton has a portfolio of 18 brands comprising more than 6,100 properties with more than 9,77,000 rooms, in 118 countries and territories.