How To Tip Hotel Housekeeping
Tipping can be confusing and awkward, especially when you’re traveling and trying to stretch a buck as far as it’ll go. One thing you shouldn’t scrimp on, however, is hotel housekeeping. These folks do the work travelers rarely see, and tipping them is a great way of showing your gratitude.
Why You Shouldn’t Forget
Cleaning rooms, restocking supplies, vacuuming, scrubbing bathtubs and sinks, clearing up trash and spills – all of these things are done to make your stay comfy. It’s physically demanding work that deserves to be noted…and appreciated. A tip says, “I see what you do. I see you. And I thank you.”
What’s a “Normal” Tip?
There’s no single “right” number, but common guidance gives you a solid range to aim for.
The American Hotel & Lodging Association suggests $1 to $5 per day for housekeeping staff.
Southern Living recommends $1 to $5 per night in mid-range or business hotels; for a luxury or large suite, you might tip more — $10 to $20.
Some sources expand that range, especially in upscale settings. The Emily Post Institute points to $2 to $10 per day — depending on hotel class
In short, for most stays, $2 to $5 a night. But if it’s a suite or a luxe property, make it more.
When & How To Tip — Daily vs. At Checkout
Tip Daily
It’s better to leave a tip each day rather than in one lump sum before checkout. Why? Because different staff may clean your room on different days. If you leave a daily tip, the person who cleans that day sees your gratitude directly.
Cash Is Best
Housekeepers prefer cash, which they can take directly. Some hotels don’t allow staff to accept non-cash items (like coupons or casino vouchers).
Make It Obvious
Leave your tip somewhere visible, accompanied by a simple message: “Thank you” or “For housekeeping.” Make sure it’s in plain sight. The top of the dresser or near the sink are logical places.
Adjust Based On Context
Not every stay is equal. Here’s when and why you might tip more:
- Room condition matters – If you’ve left lots of mess, dishes, or extra laundry, tip more.
- Size & amenities – If your room has a kitchenette, separate living area, or many bathrooms, that means more work…so tip more.
- Length & frequency – If your hotel doesn’t clean every day – some hotels do “green” stays – tip anyway. Your room was cleaned before you arrived and it’ll be cleaned again after you leave.
- Special requests – Extra towels, extra amenities, or mid-day cleanings deserve a little bonus.
- Type of hotel – A luxury hotel with nightly turndown service calls for a higher tip than a budget motel.
Sample Tipping Plan
Let’s say you’re staying 4 nights in a mid-range hotel:
- Base tip: $3 per night = $12 total
- You asked for extra towels twice (+ $1 each) = + $2
- Your group left extra mess one day (+ $1) = + $1
- Total tip = $15 spread across days
If you’re in a premium hotel or mansion-style lodging, you might do $8–$15 per night instead.
Helpful Tips On Tipping The Help
- Carry small bills – Having singles or $5 bills ready makes tipping hassle-free
- Write a note – It doesn’t have to be Tolstoy – a short “thank you” message is all you need
- Don’t tip if the hotel explicitly prohibits it – Some properties have rules about staff accepting tips
- If you can’t tip daily, leave at least something at checkout – Better late than never
- Offer verbal thanks too – A smile or “thank you” in person can mean a lot
Tipping housekeeping is a core component of compassionate travel. It reminds us to acknowledge all those who work behind the scenes to make our stay as comfortable and carefree as possible. It helps hotel staff feel recognized and valued. Next time you check into a hotel, tuck a few bills in your travel wallet. When you leave your room each day, set aside a small token of gratitude.
