I’ll admit it; I took the points. Always felt guilty about it—not because I worried about a little soap scum, but because I felt like scum for reducing the housekeeping staff; if everyone did what I did, cleaning staff could be cut by at least half. I assuaged my guilt through tipping, but that doesn't tip the scales when someone’s job is at stake. I should have been better; from now on, post COVID-19, I will do better. 
 
Now the question is, will hotels, nursing homes and other facilities be better? Let’s hope so. In her recent online article, Rooms Serviced, Managing Editor Christine Esposito detailed the new cleaning procedures put in place by hotels in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Program particulars include electrostatic sprayers with hospital-grade disinfectants, UV light technology and even disinfecting wipes stocked in every room. If effective, such programs will provide a lift to companies like Ecolab, Diversey, Spartan Chemical, State Industrial and other I&I suppliers. You’ll find these firms and dozens of others in Happi’s The Top 50, our annual look at the leading US household and personal products industry. We’re working on The Top 50 now and will publish it in the July issue. For now, you can view last year’s list right here.
 
It was always an insult to my intelligence that Marriott, Hyatt and other hotel chains offer maid-less service under the guise of environmentalism. The programs were green, alright; but they saved the lodging industry greenbacks. Trees? Not so much. If hoteliers really want to reduce their carbon footprints, they should follow LEED specifications; reduce, reuse and recycle; and trim brand sprawl. Do we really need a Courtyard next to Springhill Suites next to a Sheraton? One brand, one facility, is more efficient. When we all start traveling again, it will be interesting to see what changes have taken place in the facility cleaning industry.