Equipment, Tools & Supplies For Starting Your Own Hotel

Opening a hotel can be a lucrative business venture, but it’s important to understand the equipment, tools, and supplies you’ll need to get started. In this article, we’ll outline what you need to get your hotel up and running. Keep in mind that this is just a general overview – be sure to do your own research to find the specific products that will work best for your hotel.

Front Desk Supplies And Equipment

The front desk and lobby area is the first impression guests will have of your hotel, so it’s important to make sure it’s well-equipped and inviting. Here are some essential items you’ll need:

1. Reception desk:  This is where guests will check in and out, so it’s important to choose a desk that’s both stylish and functional. Look for one with plenty of storage space and a built-in computer system.
2. Office Supplies: These are needed for your everyday operations. These supplies include pens, paper,  staplers, paperclips, etc.
3. Computers: You’ll need at least one computer for your front desk staff. If you have a larger hotel, you may need multiple computers.
4. Software: You’ll need hotel software to help manage bookings, reservations, and payments. There are many different software programs available, so be sure to do your research to find the one that’s right for your hotel.
5. Card Reader: This is used to read guests’ ID cards so that you can check them in and out of your hotel.
6. Printers:  You’ll need at least one printer for your front desk. This is used to print off guest agreements and reservation confirmations.
7. Comfortable seating for guests: You want to make sure your guests are comfortable while they’re waiting to check in or check out. This can be anything from chairs to sofas.
8. End tables: These are used to hold magazines, books, and other materials for guests.
9. Coffee station:  This is a must-have for most hotels. Guests love having coffee available in the lobby.
10. Decorative accents: This helps to make your lobby and front desk area more inviting. Some ideas include plants, artwork, and rugs.

Housekeeping Supplies And Equipment

The next most important area in your hotel is the housekeeping department. The cleanliness of a hotel is one of the main factors guests consider when choosing where to stay. Make sure your hotel is up to par by stocking it with the following supplies and equipment:

1. Cleaning solutions: You’ll need a variety of cleaning solutions for different areas of the hotel. These can be used to clean floors, counters, bathrooms, and more.
2. Gloves: Housekeeping staff will need gloves to protect their hands while they’re cleaning.
3. Laundry detergent: This is used to wash hotel linens and towels.
4. Industrial laundry machines: You’ll need these machines to wash large loads of laundry. They’re typically larger and more powerful than home washers and dryers.
5. Bed linens and towels: These are essential for every hotel room. Be sure to stock up on a variety of sizes and styles.
6. Toiletries: These are hotel-branded items that are left in each room for guests to use. These can include shampoo, conditioner, soap, and more.
7. Trash bags:  You’ll need these to collect trash from hotel rooms.
8. Aprons and uniforms:  Housekeeping staff will need aprons and uniforms to wear while they’re working.
9. Carts: These are used to transport cleaning supplies and laundry from room to room.

Kitchen Equipment

If your hotel offers a restaurant or breakfast area, you’ll need to stock it with the following kitchen equipment:

1. Cooking utensils: These are used for cooking and serving food. They can include pots, pans, knives, forks, and spoons.
2. Dishes: You’ll need a variety of dishes for your hotel guests. This can include plates, bowls, cups, and glasses.
3. Stoves and ovens: These are used to cook food. If you have a hotel with a restaurant, you may need multiple ovens and stovetops.
4. Refrigerators and freezers: These are used to store food. You’ll need at least one refrigerator and one freezer for your hotel kitchen.
5. Dishwashers: These are used to wash dishes. If you have a hotel with a restaurant, you may need multiple dishwashers.
6. Food processors: These are used to prepare food. They can chop, slice, and dice ingredients.
7. Blenders: These are used to make smoothies, milkshakes, and other blended drinks.
8. Coffee makers: These are used to make coffee and other hot drinks.
9. Ice machines: These are used to make ice for drinks.
10. Microwaves: These are used to heat up food.

Room Supplies And Equipment

When making a list of  hotel supplies, don’t forget about the items you’ll need for each hotel room. These can include:

1. Furniture:  Each hotel room will need at least a bed, dresser, and nightstand. Some rooms may also have a sofa or chair.
2. Bedding: This includes sheets, blankets, pillows, and comforters.
3. Clothes hangers: These are used to hang clothes.
4. Iron and ironing board: These are used to press clothes, which is important if your guests have meetings throughout the day.
5. Hair dryer: This is used for drying hair.
6. In-room safe: This is used to store valuables. It helps guests feel more secure leaving items in their room while they are away for the day.
7. Mini-fridge: This is used to store food and drinks.
8. Coffee maker: This is used to make coffee and other hot drinks. This is helpful for guests who don’t want to travel to a cafe or pay for coffee.
9. Alarm clock: This is used to wake up hotel guests.
10. Phone: This is used to make calls. Guests can directly reach the front desk with in-room phones.
11. Television: This is used for entertainment. Guests can watch cable or rent movies.
12. Décor: This can include items such as artwork, plants, and rugs. These items help make each room feel comfortable and inviting.

Other Supplies And Equipment

In addition to the supplies and equipment listed above, you’ll also need the following items for your hotel:

1. First aid kit: This should be stocked with bandages, gauze, disinfectant, and other items.
2. Fire extinguisher: This is used in case of a fire.
3. Flashlights: These are used in case of a power outage.
4. Signage: This is used to identify your hotel and provide directions.
5. Window coverings: This can include curtains, blinds, and shades.
6. Key cards: These are used to open hotel room doors.
7. Gift shop supplies: If you have a hotel gift shop, you’ll need items such as clothing, souvenirs, and snacks.
8. Wifi:  This is used to connect to the internet. This is an essential feature in 21st century hotels.
9. Parking: This is used for hotel guests who have cars.
10. Security system: This is used to protect your hotel and its guests.
11. Heat/AC:  This is used to regulate the temperature in your hotel.
12. Cable:  This is used for entertainment. You can also provide streaming services like Netflix or Hulu.
13. Maintenance supplies and tools:  This can include items such as light bulbs, tools, and cleaning supplies.

Bottom Line

When starting a hotel, there are many different supplies and pieces of equipment that you’ll need. This list includes some of the most essential items that you’ll need for your hotel.  By having a well-stocked hotel, you can provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for your guests.