Over 90% of Surveyed Hotels Being Impacted by Staffing Shortages

A lot has changed in Disney World since 2020, and there are still things that have yet to return to “normal.”

One notable change was in Disney World hotels, where housekeeping has been modified for some time now. There are a few reasons for this change, but one big issue is causing problems for many hotels in the United States.

According to the American Hotel & Lodging Association, a recent survey determined that 97% of participating hotels are experiencing staffing shortages, with over 130,000 open positions available nationwide. The biggest shortage lies in housekeeping, with 58% of surveyed hotels noting it as their biggest staffing challenge.

Hotels have been offering perks and incentives to entice new employees, such as higher wages, flexibility, and more benefits. While some hotels reported success with these changes, 97% of the hotels said that they were still unable to fill positions.

Not long ago, Disney CEO Bob Chapek mentioned staffing shortages in Disney Parks, noting that the two biggest areas of staffing concern were “hospitality and short-order cooks.” In Disney World, housekeeping has been modified since reopening in 2020, with “light housekeeping” every other day, rather than on a daily basis.

So what exactly does “light” mean? Typically, it includes wiping down surface areas, removing trash, replenishing towels, and vacuuming. The initial reason for this after reopening was to accommodate a smaller staff and limit contact between guests and Cast Members, but modified housekeeping has continued as a policy in most Disney World hotels.

We confirmed recently that some housekeeping services have returned to select Disney World hotels, such as Disney’s Polynesian Resort and the Grand Floridian Resort, where guests are now receiving full cleanings every day. Other hotels, however, like the BoardWalk Inn and Riviera Resort, are still receiving cleanings every other day.

Before you arrive at your Disney World hotel, your room does get a comprehensive deep cleaning, including floors, high-touch areas, and remote controls and any cups or utensils are sealed in plastic, too. But in general, housekeeping will not make your beds daily. On the flip side, you can also opt-out of housekeeping altogether if you prefer.

Remote and guide in a room at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

With staffing issues continuing to impact hotels in the U.S., we might have to wait to experience full housekeeping services in all Disney World hotels. Keep following AllEars for more news and updates!