Hotel Room Service Etiquette: Do's and Don'ts

Have you ever found yourself puzzled by the hotel room service button? We've all been there, wondering when to press it and how to use it properly. As frequent travellers, we know that understanding the ins and outs of hotel room service can make a big difference in our stay. From the moment we check in to the time we leave, knowing how to handle room service effectively can enhance our comfort and enjoyment.

In this article, we'll explore the do's and don'ts of hotel room service button etiquette. We'll cover the basics of room service, share tips on how to use the call button wisely, and highlight common mistakes to avoid. We'll also touch on how to interact with hotel staff and make the most of housekeeping services. By the end, you'll be an expert on room service etiquette, knowing exactly when to press that button and what to expect when you do.

Understanding Room Service Basics

We've all been there – tired after a long day of travel or meetings, not wanting to leave the comfort of our hotel room. That's where room service comes in handy. It's a convenient hotel amenity that allows us to order food and drinks directly to our room. Let's dive into how it works, when to use it, and what we can typically order.

How room service works

Room service is usually available 24 hours a day, though the menu might be limited during certain times, especially late at night. To place an order, we can simply call a designated number or use the in-room menu. The hotel staff then prepares our food and brings it right to our door. It's like having a private restaurant in our room!

When to use room service

Room service is perfect for those times when we:

1. Have an early flight and need breakfast before the hotel restaurant opens
2. Are too tired to go out after a long day of sightseeing or business meetings
3. Simply prefer to eat in the privacy of our room
4. Want a late-night snack without leaving our cosy bed

Common room service offerings

The menu usually includes a variety of options to suit different tastes and times of day:

• Breakfast: From continental options to full English breakfasts
• Lunch and dinner: Main courses, salads, and sandwiches
• Snacks: For those mid-day or late-night cravings
• Beverages: Hot drinks, soft drinks, and often alcoholic beverages too

It's worth noting that room service often comes with additional fees, such as a delivery charge or gratuity. While it might be pricier than eating in the hotel restaurant, the convenience can be well worth it when we're looking for a bit of extra comfort during our stay.

Do's of Room Service Etiquette

Placing orders clearly

When we're ready to order room service, it's crucial to be clear and precise. We should greet the staff member politely, introducing ourselves and our room number. It's helpful to write down our order as we speak, ensuring we don't forget anything. We need to repeat our order to the staff member, clarifying any details that might be confusing. It's also a good idea to ask how long the delivery will take – it shouldn't be more than 30 minutes.

Being respectful to staff

Respect is key when dealing with hotel staff. We should always talk to them civilly and politely, just as we would with anyone else. It's important to remember that they're human beings doing their job, just like us. We should use "please" and "thank you" in our interactions. When the staff arrives with our order, we should let them in only after they've announced themselves. It's considerate to address them by name if possible and engage in polite conversation throughout the room service procedure.

Tipping appropriately

Tipping can be a bit tricky, especially when we're travelling abroad. In places where tipping is customary, like the US and Canada, it's expected to tip for room service if a service charge hasn't already been added to the bill. The standard tip in these regions is usually between 15% to 20%. In other parts of the world where tipping is less common, like the UK or Australia, we might tip around 5% to 15% – it's best to research the local customs beforehand.

If we're unsure whether a service charge has been included, we shouldn't hesitate to ask. Some hotels automatically add this to the bill. In the UK, for instance, a 10% tip or around £5 is typically expected for room service. It's worth noting that even if there's a service charge, the person who brought our food might not receive it directly. We can always ask if they're receiving tips from the actual bill.

Remember, tipping is a personal decision, but it's a way to show appreciation for good service. The amount shouldn't change based on the type of establishment – if the service is good, the tip should reflect that, regardless of whether we're in a budget hotel or a luxury resort.

Don'ts of Room Service Etiquette

Avoiding last-minute orders

We've all been there – it's late, we're hungry, and room service seems like the perfect solution. However, it's best to avoid placing orders at the last minute. Not only does this put unnecessary pressure on the hotel staff, but it might also result in a less-than-stellar meal. Instead, we should try to plan ahead and order with enough time for the kitchen to prepare our food properly. This way, we're more likely to enjoy a delicious meal and maintain a positive relationship with the hotel staff.

Not answering the door inappropriately

When our room service arrives, it's crucial to answer the door appropriately. This means being fully dressed and ready to receive our order. We should never open the door in a state of undress or behave in a way that might make the staff uncomfortable. Remember, they're just doing their job, and we need to treat them with respect. It's also a good idea to have the room tidy before they arrive – this shows consideration for the staff and makes the whole process smoother.

Refraining from excessive special requests

While it's okay to have specific preferences, we should try to avoid making excessive special requests. Room service menus are designed to be prepared quickly and efficiently, so asking for too many modifications can cause delays and frustration. If we have dietary restrictions or allergies, it's best to mention these when placing the order rather than making last-minute changes. Also, let's remember that room service isn't a full-service restaurant – asking for items that aren't on the menu or requesting complex customisations might not be possible.

Lastly, it's important to note that we shouldn't create fake incidents or demand free things. Hotels are businesses, and the staff are there to help us, not to give away freebies. If we have a genuine issue, by all means, we should bring it to the hotel's attention. But fabricating problems or exaggerating minor inconveniences to get free meals or upgrades is not only dishonest but can also jeopardise the jobs of innocent staff members. Let's always aim to be considerate guests and enjoy our stay without causing unnecessary trouble.

Conclusion

Mastering hotel room service etiquette has a significant impact on our overall stay experience. By understanding when to use the service, how to place orders clearly, and how to interact respectfully with staff, we can make the most of this convenient amenity. It's crucial to remember that being considerate guests extends beyond our interactions with staff to include timely ordering and appropriate tipping.

To wrap up, room service can be a real game-changer for tired travellers or those looking for a bit of extra comfort. By following these do's and don'ts, we can ensure a smooth and pleasant experience for both ourselves and the hotel staff. So next time you're tempted to press that room service button, you'll know exactly how to handle it like a pro, enhancing your hotel stay and showing respect for the hardworking staff.

FAQs

What should I do and not do in a hotel room?
You should treat the hotel room and its facilities with the same respect you would your own home. This includes not damaging or misusing items and reporting any problems promptly. For example, smoking in non-smoking rooms is a breach of hotel policies and can lead to fines as well as discomfort for future guests.

What is the proper etiquette for tipping room service in a hotel?
For room service, if a gratuity has not already been included in your bill, it is customary to tip the attendant between 15% and 20%, similar to how you would tip a server in a restaurant. There is generally no need to tip door staff merely for opening doors.

What are the do's and don'ts for hotel housekeeping?
Do use the 'Do Not Disturb' or 'Please Make Up Room' signs provided to communicate with housekeeping about your preferences. Do not use or take any belongings from the room that aren't yours, as this is considered theft and is highly inappropriate.

Where should I leave my room service tray after I'm done?
It is usual practise to place your room service tray outside your room after use. You should also notify room service to collect it. Covering the tray with a napkin, if provided, is a considerate gesture to maintain cleanliness.