Hotel rooms may appear clean at first glance, but in reality, many corners harbor a large amount of bacteria and viruses. Research shows that even luxury hotels may have hygiene blind spots, with some areas containing bacteria levels up to 10 times higher than in hospitals.
According to a report by “Travel and Leisure,” the head of housekeeping at the Canne Bianche Lifestyle Hotel in Italy pointed out that hotel cleaning staff typically spend only 30 minutes tidying up a room, often overlooking details such as decorations. Experts have identified five common high-risk areas and recommend that travelers take appropriate protective measures upon check-in.
Travel consultant Maria Diego stated, “As soon as I enter a room, I toss the decorative pillows and bed runners into a corner. These are never cleaned.”
Some hotel staff members have revealed that most hotels only change the bed sheets.
Remote controls, light switches, and telephone receivers are breeding grounds for germs. Los Angeles consultant Rani Cheema bluntly stated, “I find the in-room phone the most intolerable, as it is rarely cleaned.”
Carpets are also a breeding ground for dirt and grime, with many luxury hotels switching to hardwood floors or removable carpets.
A 2023 survey revealed that the bacterial levels in hotel bathtubs could be 40 times higher than on toilet seats. Especially whirlpool tubs, due to their complex piping, often cannot be thoroughly disinfected.
Diego mentioned that she never takes a bath unless it’s a five-star hotel with non-whirlpool tubs.
Ceiling fans, curtain rods, and shower heads at high places are often overlooked. Travel industry professional LaDell Carter warned that if the bedside charging ports are dusty or lampshades have residue, it indicates that cleaning is only superficial.
Many hotels only wipe glassware with a cloth instead of replacing them. Carter suggests that after checking in, guests should rinse the glassware with hot water boiled in the kettle. Ice buckets should be lined to prevent contamination. There have been cases of Norovirus infections in hotels due to guests vomiting in ice buckets. If there are no liners, it is advisable to bring your own drinking vessels and a small ice bucket.
If cleanliness in the room seems suspicious, experts recommend contacting the front desk immediately to request a re-cleaning or room change to ensure a safe stay.
(This article references a report by Fox News)