As the busy spring season approaches, hotels are gearing up to welcome a surge of travelers. Guests will expect seamless service and top-notch comfort. On this World Sleep Day, Eden Textile and the British Columbia Hotel Association (BCHA) are coming together to share insights on helping hoteliers ensure their properties are ready to impress for the upcoming spring peak season. By taking proactive steps today, hotels can see to it that guests leave well-rested and eager to return.

• Inspect mattresses, sheets, duvets, and pillows for wear and tear, replacing any that no longer meet your quality standards. 
• Review past data to identify seasonal demand trends and determine where you may need to increase stock, such as bedding or bath amenities.
• Maintain optimal stock levels by calculating par levels, which represent the minimum quantity of essential items required to ensure seamless operations and guest satisfaction in the hotel industry. "PAR" stands for Periodic Automatic Replacement, guiding replenishment to prevent shortages.

How to Calculate Par Levels for Hotel Linens

Use the following formula:

Par Level = (Items per Room × Number of Rooms) × Desired Par Number

For example, in a 100-room hotel where each room requires four bath towels, and you aim for a 3-par level:

(4 bath towels × 100 rooms) × 3 = 1,200 bath towels.

So, for a 100-room hotel, if each room requires four bath towels and you maintain a 3-par level, you’ll need a total of 1,200 bath towels. This guarantees a steady supply for guest use, laundry cycles, and backups. Use the same method to calculate the required stock for all linens that need washing after each stay. 

Consider factors that may influence par levels, such as:

• Laundry operations (on-site vs. outsourced)
• Guest room requirements (standard vs. luxury accommodations)
• Occupancy trends (seasonal fluctuations)
• Type of item (sheets, pillows, or specialty linens)

For items not replaced with each guest stay, such as pillows and mattress protectors, a 1.25-par level is often used instead of the standard 3-par level. 

Overwashing linens increases labor, water, and energy costs. A 3-par system reduces washing frequency, extending linen lifespan by 20–30%. With this system, housekeeping doesn’t have to wait for linens to return from the laundry, allowing for a seamless workflow and quicker room turnover. Additionally, rotating three sets instead of two reduces the frequency of washing each individual set, helping to minimize wear and tear and extend the lifespan of the linens. This system also provides greater flexibility to accommodate last-minute guest requests without disrupting daily operations, ensuring a consistently high level of service.

By planning ahead and keeping inventory levels in check, you’ll ensure smooth operations and a seamless guest experience.

2. Revamp Marketing and Promotions 

Spring is the perfect season to revamp your hotel's marketing strategy, drawing in new guests while showing appreciation to loyal customers. As travelers start planning their getaways, a fresh approach can help your property stand out. Consider updating your website, launching a seasonal promotion, or enhancing your social media presence to capture attention and drive bookings.

• Refresh your marketing materials with vibrant spring themes and highlight your hotel's proximity to the natural beauty of spring. Promote easy access to parks, gardens, hiking trails, and other outdoor activities. 
• Consider partnering with local businesses, like restaurants, spas, and attractions, to create compelling joint promotions and spring packages. 
• Refine your marketing by targeting specific guest segments. Consider offering early bird specials for families or romantic spa packages for couples. 

• Offer a selection of pillows with different firmness levels to cater to individual preferences. A pillow menu adds another level of service to ensure every guest gets a good night's sleep. In addition to surprising your guests, a pillow menu will reinforce your brand for repeat guests. Check out our blog on How to Start a Pillow Menu for the Ultimate Guest Experience to learn more.  
• Provide a range of layers to cater to diverse guest preferences, such as extra blankets in the closet and plush throws on the bed.
• Highlight your support for the local economy by choosing high-quality, Canadian-designed bedding products from Eden Textile, known for their comfort and durability.

4. Plan for Unexpected Situations 

Peak season demands flexibility and proactive planning. A well-prepared approach ensures seamless operations and keeps guests comfortable, no matter what arises. Ensure your hotel is ready for any challenge by:

• Set clear minimum stock levels for must-have items like bedding, towels, toiletries, and cleaning supplies. Base these on your busiest seasons, past trends, and peak occupancy so you're never caught off guard.
• Make sure everyone on your team knows what’s needed and has an easy way to report when supplies are running low. Whether it’s logging requests or flagging issues, keeping communication smooth helps avoid last-minute scrambles.
• Build strong relationships with local suppliers for quick and reliable restocks. Keep them in the loop about your inventory, upcoming events, and any shifts in demand so they can stay ready to support you. A little planning goes a long way in keeping things running smoothly!

Getting ready for peak season takes some serious planning, but focusing on bedding can make a big difference in guest satisfaction and loyalty. Investing in quality, keeping standards high, and adding little thoughtful touches will help your property stand out when it matters most. Start early, stay organized, and create the kind of experience that keeps guests coming back!