Staying at a hotel is supposed to be a relaxing escape from the daily grind, but have you ever wondered how clean your room is? Even the most sparkling hotel suites can hide some seriously germy secrets. While housekeeping teams do their best, high guest turnover and time constraints mean some items don’t get the deep clean they deserve. If you want to avoid bringing home more than just memories, it’s time to get savvy about what you touch. Here are ten things you should never touch at a hotel—even if they look spotless.
1. The TV Remote
The TV remote is one of the dirtiest items in any hotel room. Think about it: dozens, if not hundreds, of hands have pressed those buttons, and it’s rarely cleaned thoroughly between guests. According to a study by TravelMath, the remote can harbor more bacteria than the toilet seat. To stay safe, wipe it down with a disinfectant wipe or use a plastic bag as a barrier before channel surfing.
2. Bedspreads and Decorative Pillows
While sheets are usually changed between guests, bedspreads and decorative pillows often are not. These items can collect dust, skin cells, and even bodily fluids over time. If you’re concerned about cleanliness, remove the bedspread and decorative pillows as soon as you arrive and use only the freshly laundered sheets and pillowcases for sleeping.
3. Light Switches
Light switches are high-touch surfaces that are easy to overlook during cleaning. Studies have shown that they can be a hotspot for germs and bacteria. When you first enter the room, a quick swipe with a disinfectant wipe can help reduce your risk of picking up unwanted microbes.
4. The Telephone
Hotel room phones are another item that rarely gets a thorough cleaning. Guests use them to call the front desk, order room service, or make local calls, leaving behind germs and bacteria. If you need to use the phone, wipe it down first or use your cell phone whenever possible.
5. Bathroom Counters and Faucets
Even if the bathroom looks sparkling, the counters and faucets can still harbor germs from previous guests. Housekeeping may do a quick wipe-down, but it’s not always enough to eliminate all bacteria. Consider using a tissue or paper towel to turn on the faucet and avoid placing personal items directly on the counter.
6. Coffee Makers and Glassware
That in-room coffee maker might seem like a convenient perk, but it’s often neglected during cleaning. According to ABC News, coffee makers can harbor mold and bacteria if not properly sanitized. The same goes for glassware, which is sometimes just rinsed and dried rather than thoroughly washed. If you must use them, wash them yourself with hot water and soap first.
7. Alarm Clocks
Alarm clocks are another high-touch item that rarely gets cleaned. Guests adjust the time, set alarms, and hit the snooze button while transferring germs. If you need to use the alarm, wipe it down or use your phone’s alarm feature instead.
8. Curtains and Drapes
Curtains and drapes are rarely, if ever, washed between guests. They can collect dust, allergens, and even mold, especially in humid climates. Avoid touching them if possible; if you need to open or close them, use a tissue or wash your hands afterward.
9. Mini Fridge Handles
Mini fridges are convenient, but many guests touch their handles and are often overlooked during cleaning. Before you grab a cold drink, give the handle a quick wipe with a disinfectant to avoid picking up any lingering germs.
10. Room Service Menus
Countless guests handle room service menus and are rarely sanitized. They can be a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. Instead of touching the physical menu, check if the hotel offers a digital menu or call the front desk for recommendations.
Staying Safe and Comfortable in Your Hotel Room
Being aware of the dirtiest things in a hotel room doesn’t mean you have to be paranoid—it just means you’re prepared. A few simple precautions, like packing disinfectant wipes and being mindful of what you touch, can make your stay much safer and more comfortable. Remember, even if something looks clean, it doesn’t mean it’s free of germs. By avoiding these ten things you should never touch at a hotel, you can focus on enjoying your trip instead of worrying about what you might bring home.
Read More
5 Tips to Help You Easily Budget for Traveling Abroad This Year
Genius Ways to Save Big on Travel
The post 10 Things You Should NEVER Touch at a Hotel (Even If They Look Clean) appeared first on Budget and the Bees.
