COVID-19 Update: How Hotels May Be Different Post-Pandemic

Like many other businesses, the hotel industry will see major changes in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. New and existing hotels will transition from stressing luxurious facilities to promoting healthy buildings, putting hotel housekeepers at the forefront of the transition, WBUR-radio reports.

Some of the new technologies being considered for a hotel scheduled to open in Boston next year include touchless elevators, which will let guests ride to their rooms by waving a card instead of touching any buttons. The HVAC system will feature a strengthened fresh air system, allowing it pump more fresh air through the hotel complex. Any recirculate air will go through enhanced filtration.

Service worker unions are concerned some jobs may change or disappear because of the coronavirus. For instance, hotel buffets may be a dining option of the past, eliminating the need for buffet attendants. Hotel housekeepers may be busier doing extra cleaning and disinfecting of guest rooms and public areas. Or their hours may be cut if hotels decide to eliminate daily guest rooms cleanings and just have housekeepers service rooms between patrons.

However, hotel operators will ultimately need to provide customers with what they want. An official at Boston University’s School of Hospitality Administration reports that many guests still want their rooms cleaned daily, which will maintain the demand for housekeepers.