Not every item in a hotel room is as clean as you might think. Photo by Roberto Nickson/Unsplash.
Hotel housekeeping staff are typically responsible for cleaning 15-20 rooms during an 8-hour shift, averaging 20-30 minutes per room. Within this tight timeframe, they tidy up the room, change bed linens, replace towels, restock items, and take out the trash, among other tasks.
With so many responsibilities and such limited time, some tasks inevitably get rushed or overlooked, resulting in certain items not being as clean as guests might expect.
This is why some guests, notably Lisa Rinna, known for her role in The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, have a habit of wiping down all surfaces with disinfectant wipes as soon as they enter a hotel room. While some may ridicule this practice, Tara Richardson, a former hotel housekeeper, confirms that there are indeed five items guests should be cautious about using due to limited deep cleaning.
1. Coffee Maker
Photo by Hilman Luthfi/Unsplash.
“Coffee makers are usually only cleaned on the surface because most hotels prioritize staff efficiency and the appearance of cleanliness over thorough sanitation,” Tara reveals. “This means that the inside of the coffee maker may harbor bacteria and even mold due to residual water that is not properly cleaned out.”
2. Ice Bucket
Photo by Monique Carrati/Unsplash.
You might assume that the ice bucket is safe from a hygiene perspective because it is lined with a thin plastic bag. However, Tara points out that not everyone uses it in this manner.
“The ice bucket is often just given a quick wipe-down with a cleaning cloth and a multipurpose cleaning spray and then reused for the next guest,” she shares.
3. Blankets and Duvets
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A duvet is a thick, fluffy bed covering that is filled with down, feathers, or wool and has a removable cover. Hotels favor duvets because they are easier to detach and clean.
During colder months, blankets and duvets are essential. However, Tara warns that these are among the least frequently sanitized items.
“Where I worked, unless the stains were very obvious and noticeable, blankets, bed linens, and duvets were only washed once a year. The same goes for mattresses, pillows, and curtains,” Tara says.
4. Towels and Bathrobes
Photo by Vije Vijendranath/Unsplash.
According to Tara, some hotels instruct staff to “not replace towels and bathrobes for new guests if they look clean.” This is done to prevent over-washing and to manage laundry loads.
If you prefer using freshly cleaned items, it is advisable to request them from the staff, as they are likely to have newly laundered or unused ones available.
5. Glassware
Photo by Julia Zolotova/Unsplash.
“At the hotel I worked at, drinking glasses and coffee mugs were only rinsed and quickly wiped down in the bathroom sink. They were not washed with soap or properly collected and washed in a dishwasher,” Tara discloses.
The former housekeeper recommends that guests bring their own disinfecting products when staying in a hotel. “I always carry disinfectant wipes to quickly clean items, especially light switches, remote controls, phones, desks, and doorknobs,” she says.
According to Zing
What to Check First When You Enter a Hotel Room?
As a discerning traveler, you know that a hotel room’s cleanliness can make or break your stay. So, where should you begin your inspection? The bed, of course! A quick once-over of the sheets and mattress can reveal a lot about the hygiene standards of the establishment.
A bed is the heart of a hotel room, and a clean, comfortable one is essential for a good night’s rest. So, before you unpack your bags, take a moment to inspect the bedding. Are the sheets crisp and fresh, or do they appear worn and tired? Is the mattress firm and inviting, or does it sag in the middle? These are tell-tale signs that will give you an instant impression of the room’s overall cleanliness.
A quick inspection of the bed can save you from a world of discomfort and give you peace of mind, ensuring your stay is off to a great start.
Why Do Hotels Usually Provide Pencils Instead of Pens?
The hotel room desk or bedside table is often adorned with a notepad and pencil, a humble yet essential offering. This simple stationery set is a thoughtful touch, providing guests with a space to jot down their thoughts, ideas, or even a quick note to the staff. It’s a subtle invitation to write, to express, and to connect – a blank canvas awaiting the guest’s unique imprint.
What is World Toilet Day? History and Significance
World Toilet Day is observed annually on November 19th. Led by the United Nations, this day serves as a global platform to raise awareness about the importance of sanitation and its impact on human health and well-being. It is a day to recognize the critical role that toilets play in our lives and to advocate for equitable access to safe and sustainable sanitation solutions for all. This year, let us come together to shine a spotlight on the importance of proper sanitation and its potential to transform lives and contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future for everyone.
Why Do Hotel Beds Have So Many Pillows When Only One Person Is Staying in the Room?
When traveling or venturing far from home, we often find ourselves checking into hotels. If you’ve ever paid close attention, you’ll notice that hotel beds are adorned with an abundance of pillows, even when it’s just a single occupant. Ever wondered why? Well, wonder no more! Unravel the reasons behind this intriguing pillow phenomenon in our upcoming article.
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