When passengers first step into their cabins, they’re expecting a space that feels like a personal sanctuary—clean, fresh, and ready for them to relax and unwind. Meeting these expectations quickly and efficiently can be a challenge, especially with the fast-paced demands of cruise operations. However, with the right approach, turning over cabins swiftly while ensuring a pristine, welcoming environment can significantly boost guest satisfaction and streamline operations.
In the cruise industry, time and cleanliness are of the essence. Every minute saved on cabin turnover and every detail attended to in the process contribute to a safer, healthier, and more inviting atmosphere for each guest.
This article and accompanying video will guide you through the essential steps and best practices to make cabin turnovers both fast and thorough, ensuring your guests feel right at home from the moment they arrive.
Let’s jump in.
Pre-Cleaning Preparations
Before we go over the cabin turnover process steps, let’s look at the supplies you will need.
Cleaning Supplies
- Disinfectants
- Fresh Linens
- Trash Bags
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
For rooms with a balcony:
- Broom
- Outdoor Mop
Note: Always confirm guest check-in/checkout times and accommodate any special requests to ensure all rooms are prepared accordingly.
Now that we’ve addressed what supplies you’ll need, we’ll review cabin turnover steps.
9 Steps to Properly Clean a Cruise Cabin
Step 1: Start with the Bathroom
You want to start with the bathroom since it is one of the most used and most germ-ridden areas of the cabin. Clean and disinfect all surfaces, including sinks, toilets, showers, and mirrors. Let products dwell for the recommended time, according to the product labels.
Once all surfaces have been cleaned, you want to check for any maintenance issues and restock amenities. Make sure the bathroom has enough toiletries, toilet paper, and freshly washed towels.
Step 2: Replace Linens
Begin by gathering all used linens, towels, and bedding throughout the cabin. Place them in the designated laundry collection area to maintain organization and prevent cross-contamination. Replace these items with fresh, clean linens, paying special attention to detail.
When making the bed, ensure it is neatly and professionally arranged. Smooth out wrinkles, align edges evenly, and add finishing touches such as perfectly fluffed pillows or decorative accents, depending on the cabin’s style. A well-made bed not only sets a welcoming tone for the entire cabin but also conveys a sense of cleanliness, comfort, and care that enhances the guest experience.
Step 3: Trash Removal
The next step is to remove all trash from the cabin. If needed, replace can liners.
Also, check drawers, closets, and under the bed for any items left behind by previous guests and properly discard of any trash that you find.
Step 4: Clean the Balcony (if applicable) & Safety Check
If the cabin includes a balcony, give special attention to this area to ensure it is clean, safe, and ready for use. Start by sweeping the floor to remove dirt, debris, and dust. Follow up with mopping to leave the surface spotless and fresh. For the railings, use disinfecting wipes to thoroughly clean and sanitize, removing any smudges, fingerprints, or grime.
Additionally, conduct a safety inspection. Check that the balcony door locks securely to ensure guest safety and privacy. Examine the area for any potential hazards, such as loose flooring, unstable furniture, or obstructions. A clean, well-maintained balcony enhances the guest experience and provides peace of mind.
Step 5: Restock and Clean the Mini-Bar
Carefully inspect the mini bar to ensure it is fully stocked and ready for the next guest. Discard any empty or partially used bottles, cans, or containers to maintain hygiene and quality standards.
Wipe down all shelves and surfaces inside the mini bar with a disinfectant to remove any spills or sticky residue. Once clean, neatly organize and arrange the items, ensuring labels face outward for a polished and professional presentation. Double-check inventory to confirm it matches the standard list, leaving the mini bar spotless and fully restocked for the guest’s convenience.
Step 6: Final Inspection and Dwell Times
Before completing the cleaning process, conduct a thorough final walkthrough of the cabin to ensure it meets guest-ready standards. Carefully inspect all surfaces, including countertops, mirrors, and furniture, to confirm they are spotless and free of streaks. Replenish all items, such as toiletries, towels, and amenities, ensuring everything is neatly arranged and fully stocked.
Take the time to double-check drawers, cabinets, and closets for any overlooked trash or belongings left behind by previous guests. Pay close attention to hard-to-see areas, such as under beds and behind furniture, to ensure nothing is missed.
Finally, verify that disinfectants and cleaning solutions have had sufficient dwell time to effectively eliminate germs and bacteria. This critical step enhances cleanliness and safety, providing guests with a hygienic and welcoming cabin experience.
Step 7: Sustainable Practices in Cabin Turnover
Minimizing environmental impact during cabin turnover is essential for promoting sustainability and supporting eco-friendly operations. Start by conserving water throughout the cleaning process, using only what is necessary to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. Reduce waste by reusing materials when appropriate, such as repurposing partially used amenities or opting for refillable dispensers for soaps and shampoos.
Incorporate environmentally friendly cleaning products into your routine. Opt for biodegradable detergents, sustainable paper products, and reusable microfiber cloths instead of disposable wipes. Whenever possible, recycle materials like empty bottles and packaging to further reduce your ecological footprint.
By integrating these sustainable practices, you can maintain high cleaning standards while contributing to a greener and more responsible operation.
Step 8: Sanitize High Touch Surfaces
It is important to not forget about the many high touch surfaces in the room, like light switch areas, remote controls and safes to name a few. These areas require the same attention as the bathroom and should be wiped down thoroughly with the proper disinfectants.
Step 9: Vacuum The Cabin
As a final step before exiting the cabin, thoroughly vacuum the carpet to ensure the floor is spotless and guest-ready. Pay close attention to high-traffic areas, corners, and under furniture to remove any dust, debris, or hair. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter for enhanced air quality, especially in enclosed spaces.
This step not only ensures a tidy appearance but also contributes to a clean and inviting atmosphere for guests. A freshly vacuumed floor is the finishing touch that reflects attention to detail and a commitment to excellence.
Final Thoughts
The cabin turnover process is necessary for guest satisfaction and operational efficiency. It’s important to pay close attention to details, ensuring that every area of the room is cleaned, restocked, and prepared for new guests.
While you want to uphold high standards during cabin turnover, you also want to complete the process as quickly as possible. Address major issues first, and clean what you can in the meantime.
To help ensure a smooth turnover, keep a checklist of tasks that need to be completed and maintain good communication with the cleaning team. Work together to make the cabin turnover experience as smooth and flawless as possible.
Imperial Dade’s Global Cruise Line and Marine Solutions division is here to help you keep your cruise line clean and running efficiently. We can help if you need assistance with commercial cleaning, housekeeping, laundry, and F&B programs.