How often should high-touch surfaces be cleaned?

High-touch surfaces should be cleaned daily or more frequently due to the significant role they play in the spread of pathogens and germs in any environment. High-touch surfaces—including door handles, light switches, elevator buttons, and shared equipment—are frequently contacted by multiple individuals throughout the day. Regular cleaning and disinfection of these surfaces reduce the risk of transmission of infectious diseases and contribute to the overall health and safety of guests and staff.

In settings like hotels, where a variety of guests interact with surfaces continuously, maintaining rigorous cleaning protocols is crucial. Cleaning these areas daily or more often helps ensure that any contamination is minimized, providing a safer environment. Additionally, during times of heightened concern regarding public health, such as outbreaks of illness, increasing the frequency of cleaning can be a proactive step in infection control.

Other options, such as cleaning once a week, only when visibly dirty, or monthly, do not provide the necessary level of sanitation and risk management needed in environments where many individuals congregate. Therefore, the recommendation to clean high-touch surfaces daily or more frequently is consistent with best practices for hygiene and safety in hospitality and other public-facing industries.