When checking into a hotel or inn, the front desk staff often reminds guests to check the sanitation, property, and equipment in the room. Sometimes, guests are also advised to hang a damp towel on the doorknob. Few people know the reason behind this practice.
Why Should You Hang a Wet Towel on the Doorknob in a Hotel?
Why is it recommended to hang a wet towel on the doorknob in a hotel room?
According to experts from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in the United States, using a damp cloth or towel to cover your nose and mouth can help you safely escape a hotel fire. It is recommended to cover your mouth and leave your nose exposed, as breathing through your mouth can cause burns in the respiratory tract. In the event of a fire, the wet towel hanging on the doorknob could be a lifesaver.
If a fire breaks out in the hotel, you can immediately run out and use the wet towel hanging by the door to cover your mouth. This way, you won’t waste precious time, which could range from two to four minutes, running to the bathroom to wet a towel, missing the golden opportunity to escape.
The main reason for hanging a damp towel on the doorknob is to ensure the safety of guests in the event of a fire. The biggest threat in hotels and inns is fire, as these places accommodate many people and are prone to fire accidents. In fires, the number of deaths due to smoke inhalation is often higher than those caused by burns.
Smoke inhalation is the most common cause of death in fires. When inhaling smoke, individuals experience oxygen deprivation, leading to rapid breathing and weakness. Simultaneously, a large amount of carbon oxide generated from the burning materials enters and creates high pressure in the respiratory tract, causing suffocation and burns. More severely, smoke inhalation can lead to seizures and loss of consciousness.
Another reason why it is suggested to hang a wet towel on the doorknob in a hotel room is to humidify the room. Typically, guests turn on the air conditioning, which can make the air in the room relatively dry. The damp towel will evaporate, adding moisture to the air and making you feel more comfortable.
Regardless of the reason, hanging a wet towel on the doorknob is very practical and useful. Moreover, it is easy to do and does not take up too much of your time. No matter how tired you are, it is worth spending a few minutes doing this before you rest.
The primary purpose of hanging a damp towel on the doorknob is to ensure guests’ safety in the event of a fire.
8 Things to Do When You Enter a Hotel Room
For a safe and comfortable stay, remember to do the following when you enter your hotel room:
Inspect the Bed or Mattress
When checking into a hotel, the first thing to do is to inspect the bed. Check under the mattress and between the sheets for any unusual objects or creatures. If you find anything suspicious, be sure to report it to the front desk immediately.
Disinfect Essential Items
Another important step is to quickly sanitize the most commonly touched items in the room, such as doorknobs, closet handles, and the TV remote control, as these objects tend to harbor a lot of bacteria.
Check the Room Lock and Key Card
When you receive your room key, remember to test if it works and, more importantly, understand how it functions (there is usually an instructional guide provided). Additionally, learn the correct way to lock the door, and check if the lock is functioning properly.
Lock Windows and Balcony Doors
If you have young children, be sure to lock the windows and balcony doors, especially if your room is on a high floor. Children can be curious, so this is a way to protect them from potential risks.
Check the Air Conditioning Temperature
A balanced room temperature will contribute to a good night’s sleep and a comfortable stay. Upon entering your hotel room, check if the air conditioning remote control works and test the air temperature.
Read the Evacuation Map and Identify Escape Routes
The evacuation map is usually located right behind the room door, but few people take the time to study and memorize the nearest emergency exits. Some hotels even provide evacuation plans in the lobby. It is crucial to be prepared for various situations, such as fires or natural disasters.
Check for Hidden Cameras
Although not common, there is still a risk of hidden cameras in hotel rooms. Inspect the room for any unusual electronic devices or anything that seems out of place.
Use the Door Hanger Signs
Each hotel room has a unique set of door hanger signs. Use them to indicate when you do not want to be disturbed, or to let housekeeping know when it is a good time to clean your room.
