14 Things You Should Never Do in a Hotel Room
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Staying in a hotel room can be a delightful experience, offering a temporary escape from the usual routines of daily life. However, there are unwritten rules and common courtesies that guests should be mindful of to ensure a pleasant stay not only for themselves but also for the staff and future visitors.
The following list outlines 14 things you should never do in a hotel room. It provides insight into the best practices for hotel etiquette and helps you become a more considerate guest.
Ignoring Hotel Policies
Hotels have rules and policies in place for a reason. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines, which may differ from hotel to hotel. Ignoring policies like no smoking, no pets, or quiet hours can result in fees or even eviction from the hotel. Read through any documents provided by the hotel upon check-in and ask the staff if you have any questions.
Taking Hotel Items
Taking home those plush towels or fancy toiletries may be tempting, but it is considered stealing. Not only is this unethical, but many hotels also charge guests for missing items upon checkout. Remember that everything in the room belongs to the hotel and should stay there.
Being Loud and Disruptive
While it is natural to want to have a good time in your hotel room, be considerate of other guests. Avoid being loud and rowdy, especially during quiet hours. Keep the noise level down and respect the peace and privacy of others.
Not Keeping the Room Clean
Housekeeping does its best to keep hotel rooms clean and tidy, but it is your responsibility as a guest to maintain the room during your stay. Keep your belongings organized and dispose of any trash or food waste properly. This practice will make the cleaning process easier for housekeeping and also help prevent pests from entering your room.
Bringing Unregistered Guests
Many hotels have strict policies on the number of guests allowed in a room. Bringing extra people without notifying the hotel can incur additional fees or eviction. Following this rule is important as it ensures the safety and comfort of all guests.
Not Locking Your Door
Safety should always be a top priority, especially when staying in a new place. Always lock your hotel room door when you leave, even if it is just for a short time. This practice will help protect your belongings and give you peace of mind while exploring the city.
Inviting Strangers into Your Room
While inviting new friends or acquaintances back to your hotel room may seem fun, it can be risky and uncomfortable for both parties. It is best to socialize in public areas of the hotel rather than inviting strangers into your personal space.
Not Reporting Maintenance Issues
If you encounter any maintenance issues during your stay, report them to the front desk immediately. These issues could be a leaky faucet, broken appliances, or non-functional amenities. Not reporting these issues can result in additional fees and inconvenience for future guests.
Leaving Valuables Unattended
Be mindful of where you leave your valuables, such as cash, jewelry, and electronics. It is best to keep them locked in a safe or with you. If there is no safe in the room, ask the front desk if one is available for guest use.
Walking Barefoot
Walking barefoot in a hotel room may seem like no big deal, but it can expose you to health risks. Hotel rooms’ floors and carpets are not always thoroughly cleaned, and germs and bacteria can thrive in these areas. Wear slippers or bring flip-flops for added protection.
Connecting to Wi-Fi Without Checking Security
Using the hotel’s Wi-Fi network can be convenient, but checking its security before connecting is essential. Avoid accessing personal or sensitive information while connected to a public network. Some hotels offer secure networks for an additional fee, which may be worth considering for added protection.
Use Stuff Without First Cleaning Them
It is natural to want to use the amenities provided in a hotel room, like the coffee maker or glasses. However, it is important to clean these items before using them. Housekeeping may not have properly sanitized them, and washing them yourself can help prevent any potential illness.
Using the Bedspread
While snuggling up on the bedspread may be tempting, think twice before doing so. These covers are rarely washed between guests and can harbor germs and bacteria. If you want extra warmth, consider using an extra blanket or bringing your own from home.
Trying to Cook in the Room
Unless the hotel advertises kitchen amenities, avoiding cooking in your room is best. Not only can it be a fire hazard, but it can also result in additional cleaning fees and damage to the room. Stick to using the provided mini-fridge or ordering takeout instead.
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