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.
“After 19 years of working as a flight attendant and spending a lot of time in various hotels, the first thing I check when entering a hotel room is the bed,” an anonymous flight attendant shared with Australia’s News.
“If the sheets and bedding are wrinkled and not smooth, it’s possible that your room has been overlooked by the housekeeping staff or not properly attended to.”
Checking the bed is a good indicator of whether the hotel room has been thoroughly cleaned. Image: NBC News
Dan, a housekeeper in Mariposa, a town near Yosemite National Park in the US, revealed that he has to clean 20 rooms a day, which means at least 20 beds to make and a truly busy schedule.
“If I come across a bed that has been used but is not too messy, I’ll just smooth out the bedspread, hoping the next guest won’t notice,” Dan said.
The housekeeper also added that he has been applying this “trick” ever since he started working.
The kettle is another item that guests should inspect in hotel rooms. Image: Tripadvisor
Frequent traveler Harrison Jacobs, who spends up to 300 nights a year in different hotels, shared his own experience. Instead of checking the bed, Jacobs looks inside the electric kettle in the room.
If he spots mold or rust, he knows that the housekeeping staff has neglected to clean it. This indicates a lack of attention to detail, and he will request a room change or shorten his stay at hotels where this occurs.
Explaining why he checks the kettle first, he said, “Coffee makers and kettles often contain water and moisture, so they are prone to mold and rust. These are also two items that many hotel staff tend to overlook when it comes to thorough cleaning.”
According to VNN
Frequently asked questions
The first thing you should do when entering a hotel room is to check for bed bugs. Lift up the sheets and check the mattress seams for any signs of bed bugs or their droppings. Also, check behind the headboard and any pictures or mirrors on the wall.
In addition to checking the mattress, you should also inspect the furniture, particularly the seams and crevices, as bed bugs like to hide in these areas. Use a credit card or something similar to scrape along the seams and crevices to check for any signs of bed bugs or their droppings.
If you find bed bugs, do not place your luggage or any of your belongings on the bed or floor. Contact the hotel management immediately and request a different room that is not adjacent to the infested room. Also, be sure to wash all of your clothing in hot water when you return home, and inspect your luggage carefully.
In addition to checking for bed bugs, you should also check the functionality of the lights, air conditioning, TV, and any other amenities. Also, check the bathroom for cleanliness and ensure that there is an adequate supply of hot water. It is also a good idea to test the door locks and window latches to ensure your security.
In addition to checking for bed bugs and verifying the functionality of amenities, there are a few other things you can do to ensure a comfortable stay. Adjust the room temperature to your preference, familiarize yourself with the light switches and curtain controls, and locate the fire escape route. Also, be sure to review the room service menu and the mini-bar offerings, if applicable.
The kettle is another item that guests should inspect in hotel rooms. Image: Tripadvisor 
