Hotel Room Hygiene : 5 Things in Your Hotel Room You Might Want to Think Twice About Touching

A hotel room can feel like a sanctuary when you're traveling—a clean, private space to relax. But while the room may look spotless, some of the most frequently used items are often overlooked during cleaning, making them hotspots for germs. Before you get too comfortable, here are five of the dirtiest things in a typical hotel room.1. The TV Remote: The Unseen CarrierThink about it: nearly every guest who stays in the room picks up the TV remote.It's handled, dropped, and clicked countless times, but it's rarely given a proper deep clean. With all its nooks and crannies around the buttons, the remote is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Studies have shown it can be one of the most contaminated items in the entire room, sometimes harboring more germs than the toilet seat.To be safe, a quick wipe with a disinfectant wipe can make all the difference before you start channel surfing.[2. The Decorative Bed Pillows and RunnersThat stylish decorative pillow or the runner laid neatly across the foot of the bed might tie the room's decor together, but you probably don't want to get too cozy with them While hotels are diligent about washing the essential linens like sheets and pillowcases between guests, these decorative items are often left behind. Since they aren't part of the standard laundry cycle, they can collect dust, hair, and germs from previous occupants. Your best bet is to simply toss them to the side and stick to the freshly laundered bedding.3. The Light Switches and Knobs: The Overlooked HotspotsLight switches, doorknobs, and lamp switches are some of the first things people touch when they enter a room, yet they are easily missed during a quick cleaning routine. These "high-touch" surfaces are handled by guest after guest, and housekeeping staff, pressed for time, may not always disinfect them thoroughly. Research has found that bedside lamp switches and main light switches can be heavily contaminated with bacteria. It’s a smart habit to wipe down these areas when you first check-in for peace of mind.4. The Drinking Glasses by the SinkThose sparkling glasses in the bathroom or by the mini-fridge might look inviting, but proceed with caution.Investigations have found that housekeeping staff at some hotels don't always replace the glasses with fresh ones. Instead, they might just be rinsed in the bathroom sink—sometimes with the same cloths used for other surfaces—and put back For a safer sip, it’s better to use the disposable, plastic-wrapped cups if they are provided, or simply give the glass a thorough wash with hot water and soap yourself before using it5. The In-Room Coffee MakerA complimentary coffee can be a lifesaver in the morning, but the machine it comes from can be a bit questionable. Coffee makers, with their water reservoirs and internal parts, are difficult to clean properly and are rarely deep-cleaned between guests. This can lead to the buildup of bacteria and mold inside the machine.If you're an avid coffee drinker, you might consider packing your own travel mug or cleaning tablets for the machine.A little bit of caution can go a long way in making your hotel stay more comfortable and hygienic. A quick wipe-down of these common items can help ensure you leave with only good memories from your trip.