The room needs cleaning

Use this when you want someone to fix a mess. In a hotel, you say it to the front desk. At home, you might say it to a roommate or family member. You can add really or badly for emphasis. For example, The room really needs cleaning. It is a simple subject-verb-object structure. It is very easy for beginners to master quickly.

You use this in service-based environments most often. Use it when checking into a hotel room that looks dusty. Use it when your office looks like a paper explosion. It works well when you are the customer. It is also helpful when you are planning your chores for the weekend. Just don't say it while looking at your host's living room!

Never use this as a guest in someone's home. It will sound very rude and insulting. Avoid using it with your boss unless it is part of your job. If a friend is going through a hard time, don't say this. Their messy room might be a sign of stress. In those cases, try asking Can I help you tidy up? instead.

English speakers often use passive or indirect language for requests. Saying The room needs cleaning is softer than saying Clean this room. It sounds like the room itself is asking for help. This helps avoid direct confrontation. In Western cultures, cleanliness is often linked to professionalism. A clean room represents a clear mind.

You might hear The room could use a scrub for deep cleaning. This place is a mess is much more informal. Housekeeping, please is the standard hotel shorthand. If you want to be very polite, try Would it be possible to have the room cleaned? This adds a layer of courtesy that staff always appreciate.