Do Extended Stay Hotels Offer Housekeeping? What to Know

Introduction: Extended Stay Housekeeping Facts 

Extended stay hotels bridge the gap between temporary lodging and home-like accommodations. They’re popular among business travelers, relocating professionals, healthcare workers, and long-term tourists. But one practical concern arises frequently: do extended stay hotels offer housekeeping? Unlike traditional hotels with daily maid service, extended stay properties operate differently, often prioritizing privacy and cost-efficiency over daily room refreshes.

The housekeeping model for extended stays is deliberately structured to suit longer occupancy. Daily cleaning in these environments is typically replaced with a more flexible system. Guests can expect either weekly or biweekly services as the standard offering, but with some options for customization.

Why is this important to understand? Because the frequency and type of housekeeping services provided during long-term stays directly impact your comfort, hygiene, and experience. Whether you're booking a stay for a month or a few weeks, knowing what cleaning services are included—or excluded—can help you plan better, pack appropriately, and make informed decisions when comparing hotel options.

This guide focuses on factual insights regarding housekeeping policies at major extended stay chains, what’s usually included, optional services, what fees may apply, and how you can maintain cleanliness in between scheduled cleanings. The information presented is not a general overview but grounded in the actual policies of widely known hotel brands, recent guest reviews, and current industry practices in 2025.

Let’s dive into the exact housekeeping expectations and standards across extended stay accommodations so you’re not caught off guard during your next long-term stay.

1. How Often Do Extended Stay Hotels Offer Housekeeping? 

Unlike traditional hotels that provide daily cleaning, extended stay hotels typically offer housekeeping on a weekly basis. This model reduces operational costs while providing guests with more privacy. Weekly housekeeping has become an industry norm, especially among major brands such as Extended Stay America, Residence Inn by Marriott, Staybridge Suites, Homewood Suites, and TownePlace Suites.

Standard Cleaning Frequency by Brand:

• Extended Stay America: Offers full housekeeping every 7 days for stays longer than 8 nights. For stays under a week, housekeeping is not provided unless requested (and often for a fee).

• Residence Inn by Marriott: Provides housekeeping every 7 days. Additional services can be requested.

• Homewood Suites by Hilton: Generally schedules cleaning once a week, usually on a specific weekday. More frequent cleaning is available upon request.

• Staybridge Suites: Offers weekly housekeeping and light touch-up service mid-week in some locations.

• WoodSpring Suites: A more budget-focused brand, offers bi-weekly cleaning in many locations and charges extra for additional service.

This approach is designed for convenience, not to compromise cleanliness. In fact, the weekly clean typically includes a thorough refresh: vacuuming, dusting, changing linens and towels, sanitizing kitchen and bathroom areas, and replenishing basic supplies.

Additional Notes on Cleaning Days:

Cleaning is often scheduled for a particular weekday. Guests are usually informed of their cleaning day during check-in, and the hotel may require guests to be present or absent during service, depending on their policy.

Why Not Daily?

Extended stay hotels aim to strike a balance between service and self-sufficiency. Guests staying longer than a week generally prefer not to be disturbed daily. Plus, weekly cleanings allow for better efficiency and resource allocation for the hotel’s housekeeping staff.

In some properties, daily housekeeping can be arranged but is not complimentary—extra fees typically apply, which can range from $10 to $40 per visit, depending on the hotel and depth of service.

2. What’s Included in Weekly Housekeeping Services? 

When extended stay hotels provide weekly housekeeping, they aim for a deep-clean style service to reset the unit’s cleanliness to a livable standard. While the exact list of services varies by brand and property, most follow a similar pattern.

Common Inclusions in Weekly Cleaning:

1. Linen Replacement – Sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers are changed.

2. Towel Service – Fresh towels are provided, and used ones are taken.

3. Vacuuming and Mopping – Carpets are vacuumed; hard floors may be swept and mopped.

4. Dusting – Surfaces such as countertops, furniture, and shelving units are dusted.

5. Trash Removal – Trash is emptied and bins are relined.

6. Bathroom Sanitation – Sinks, toilets, bathtubs/showers, and mirrors are cleaned and disinfected.

7. Kitchen Cleaning – Stove tops and countertops are wiped, and sometimes microwaves or sinks are scrubbed.

8. Basic Supply Refill – Items such as soap, shampoo, toilet paper, paper towels, and dishwashing liquid may be restocked.

Optional Services or Upgrades:

Guests may request:

• Dishwashing or kitchen deep cleaning – Generally not included unless requested.

• Fridge cleaning – Offered at select properties during long stays.

• Additional supplies – Can be picked up at the front desk or delivered upon request.

• Full-service upgrades – Daily or semi-weekly cleaning for a fee.

Housekeeping Entry Policy:

Hotels typically notify guests about their cleaning day ahead of time. Guests can choose to be present or absent. Some hotels may require the guest to confirm entry permission, especially when valuables are present.

Limitations:

• Housekeepers usually do not organize personal belongings.

• Guest clutter may be bypassed for liability reasons.

• Kitchen dishwashing is not typically included unless requested.

Knowing exactly what’s included ensures you can supplement with your own cleaning supplies or requests to maintain comfort during your stay.

3. Can Guests Request Additional Housekeeping? 

Yes—most extended stay hotels allow guests to request additional housekeeping, but it’s typically not included in the standard rate. Understanding how to make such requests and what costs may apply is crucial for long-term travelers.

How to Request Extra Cleaning:

• Front Desk or App Requests: Many hotels let you request services through the front desk or mobile apps (e.g., Marriott Bonvoy app for Residence Inn).

• Advance Notice Required: Most properties require 24-hour notice for unscheduled cleaning.

• Guest Presence: Some hotels mandate that guests are present during unscheduled cleanings, especially in suites or properties with security protocols.

Average Fees for Additional Cleaning:

• Light cleaning (trash, towels, vacuum): $10–$20

• Full room reset (linens, bath, kitchen): $25–$50

• Premium or emergency cleanups: $50+

These prices are not always listed publicly, so guests are advised to inquire directly during check-in.

Complimentary Refills Without Cleaning:

Even without requesting a full service, guests can typically request the following at no charge:

• Extra towels or linens

• Toiletries

• Trash bags

• Cleaning wipes or sprays (in some eco-conscious hotels)

Some properties, especially budget chains like WoodSpring Suites, charge for everything beyond the basic scheduled cleaning. On the other hand, higher-end brands like Hyatt House or Marriott’s Residence Inn often offer occasional free light cleanups during longer stays.

COVID-Era Adjustments:

Some hotels, especially post-2021, maintained "clean upon request" policies even after the pandemic. These remain in place in 2025 for efficiency and privacy.

Requesting services strategically—for example, every 3 days instead of daily—can help you maintain cleanliness without accumulating extra fees or disrupting your privacy.

4. How to Keep Your Room Clean Between Scheduled Services 

Guests in extended stay hotels often need to take on partial housekeeping responsibilities themselves between scheduled cleanings. Fortunately, these properties are designed for longer stays and provide tools to help with daily maintenance.

In-Room Cleaning Supplies:

Most extended stay rooms include:

• Broom and dustpan

• Dish soap and sponge

• Dishwasher (select units)

• Microwave-safe cleaning cloths

• Trash bags

Self-Maintenance Tips:

1. Take out trash regularly – Most hotels have accessible trash rooms or hallway bins.

2. Do your dishes daily – Many complaints in extended stays stem from odor or bugs due to unwashed dishes.

3. Clean spills immediately – Quick cleanups prevent long-term stains.

4. Keep food sealed – Reduces risk of pests.

5. Use laundry facilities – Most extended stay hotels have on-site laundry, often coin or card-operated.

Cleaning Products You Might Bring:

While hotels provide basics, many long-term guests bring or buy:

• All-purpose spray cleaner

• Disinfectant wipes

• Laundry detergent

• Air freshener

• Extra trash liners

Guest Responsibilities:

Guests are expected to leave the unit in reasonably clean condition at checkout. Excessive mess may result in a deep-cleaning fee, often ranging from $75 to $250, depending on the damage or workload.

Alternative: Weekly Deep-Clean Kit

Some brands like Candlewood Suites offer “cleaning kits” at the front desk containing:

• Floor cleaner

• Surface spray

• Reusable mop pads

This hybrid housekeeping model empowers guests to stay clean, odor-free, and organized during extended stays without daily disruptions.

Conclusion: Housekeeping Transparency Is Key for Long-Term Comfort 

When planning an extended hotel stay, knowing what to expect in terms of housekeeping isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity. Do extended stay hotels offer housekeeping? Absolutely, but the model is intentionally different from traditional hotels. Instead of daily service, guests receive weekly cleanings that cover major needs: fresh linens, vacuuming, restocking essentials, and sanitation of high-touch areas.

Understanding the frequency, services included, and guest responsibilities can make the difference between a comfortable extended stay and an inconvenient one. While many guests appreciate the privacy that comes with fewer staff entries, others might prefer more frequent cleaning—and in those cases, knowing your options and potential charges becomes vital.

Each hotel brand has slightly different policies, but the consistent thread across the industry is that extended stay housekeeping is designed with autonomy, efficiency, and longer durations in mind. Whether it’s planning for towel replacement, arranging an extra cleaning service, or simply using the laundry and trash services available, smart travelers adapt their routine around the structure provided.

Ultimately, transparency in housekeeping policies leads to better guest satisfaction. Hotels benefit when expectations are clear, and guests benefit by feeling informed and empowered. Before you book your next long-term stay, review the hotel’s housekeeping schedule and service options—and if necessary, don’t hesitate to ask for more.

Cleanliness doesn’t have to be sacrificed in exchange for a longer stay. It just takes a bit of planning, a clear understanding of what’s offered, and active participation in maintaining your space. With this insight, you’re better equipped to enjoy a truly comfortable and well-managed extended hotel experience.