Housekeeper Duties - what does a housekeeper do?

Housekeeper duties will vary according to the working environment. We list specific housekeeping duties and responsibilities for different workplaces including:

• retirement community or living center
• a medical or nursing facility
• a hotel or hospitality environment
• a domestic or home workplace

What does a housekeeper do?

The standard duties and skill requirements applicable to the majority of
housekeeper jobs are clearly detailed. Here we list the housekeeping duties specific to a
number of different employment situations.

Housekeeper duties in a retirement community or living center

• maintain all assigned areas in a clean and sanitary condition

• wash, dust, polish, vacuum and sweep all areas of the
  establishment
• clean sinks, tubs, showers and toilets according to prescribed sanitary
  standards
• polish fittings and fixtures
• clean mirrors and windows
• sort and wash laundry using machines or by hand as required
• iron, fold and distribute clean laundry
• empty and clean trash cans
• listen and respond to resident's queries and requests
• ensure adequate stock of cleaning supplies
• keep cleaning equipment in good working order
• maintain clean storage area for equipment and supplies
• observe and report any maintenance issues
• assist with meal preparation, serving and clean up

Housekeeping duties in a hospital, medical center or nursing home

• clean patient rooms, surgical areas, offices and waiting areas using
  cleaning chemicals and disinfectants
• clean and sanitize floors, equipment and furniture according to
  infection-control policies
• operate various types of cleaning equipment
• handle and dispose of waste using standard procedures
• clean mattresses and beds according to established procedures
• collect dirty laundry from patient areas and place in designated
  locations
• distribute clean linen and hospital gowns
• maintain all cleaning equipment and supplies according to prescribed
  standards
• monitor inventory of supplies such as paper towels, soap, toilet paper
  

What are the duties of a housekeeper in a hotel?

This housekeeping job description clearly outlines the duties and responsibilities of a housekeeper employed in a hotel. The key skills and qualities required for successful job performance as a hotel housekeeper are also detailed.

Hotel housekeeper job description 

Housekeeper duties in a home environment

You can find a detailed list of the duties for a housekeeper in a home or domestic setting at Housekeeper duties in a domestic environment

Physical requirements for a housekeeper job

Most housekeeper jobs in a commercial environment involve demanding physical
tasks that require certain physical abilities including but not limited to:

• able to lift, push, pull and carry a minimum weight of approximately
  25lbs
• able to stand for long periods of time
• able to kneel, bend and crawl
• able to squat and crouch
• able to work in confined spaces
• able to tolerate exposure to dust and cleaning chemicals

Competency and skills requirements for housekeepers

• able to listen and follow instructions
• effective communication skills
• able to work unsupervised
• able to maintain a professional manner at all times
• displays integrity and honesty
• maintains a positive attitude towards residents, guests, patients and
  visitors
• demonstrates attention to detail and thoroughness
• able to follow and adhere to standard policies and procedures

Your housekeeper resume and cover letter

This list of housekeeper duties will help you develop an informative and professional housekeeper resume and cover letter.

Housekeeper Cover Letter

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