6 Things You Didn't Know About Housekeepers

(AND SOME THINGS YOU MIGHT NOT WANT TO KNOW, SORRY…)

I don't know about you, but I have a fascination with housekeepers. How they can make a room so sparkling and shining in 14 minutes, which is the time they have for it. No one can fold the sheets as tightly as they do. I also always want to be the perfect guest. That's why I always make the bed myself. Not nearly as neat as they do, but still. And panties neatly in the corner. When I found this interview with the housekeeper of a boutique hotel (who wishes to remain anonymous), I was intensely happy. Until I read the last question, at least…

1. The worst behavior of a hotel guest…

Not tipping or leaving your change from your pocket behind. That's so degrading. It's also annoying when you have to clean a room where the guest's belongings are scattered everywhere. We actually aren't allowed to touch those belongings, and then it's difficult to clean, I can tell you.

2. The best guests…

Those are people who can empathize with us a little. Who put their belongings in a place so that we can easily clean.

3. The worst thing you've ever seen…

There are people who apparently have a physical impossibility to flush the toilet. I've been in a room where the toilet had been used but hadn't been flushed for a while, ahem.

4. The rules around tipping

2 euros per day is fine. And place it in a spot that makes it obvious that you mean it as a tip. For example, in the bathroom under the glass or on the tray of room service. In case of doubt, we will always leave it.

5. The time it takes to clean a room

14 minutes. That's what we have. That also applies to the suites. Almost impossible to do. In that time, you clean the bathroom, wash the glasses, change the sheets and towels, vacuum, and dust.

6. What no one knows and probably doesn't want to know…

That we also clean the bath with the toilet brush…