Whether traveling for leisure or work, we often browse various websites before heading to a new destination. We look for good hotels and read reviews, and some even sigh with satisfaction after booking a room in a reputed hotel. But does this guarantee safety?
Most hotel authorities claim to strictly adhere to cleanliness protocols. However, the implementation of these protocols is often questionable. According to naturopathic doctor Dr. Jennifer Stagg, “You might think that by spending more on an expensive hotel, you’ll get the cleanest room, but investigative reports often tell a different story.”
So, how aware should travelers actually be? Dr. S. Wesley Long, the medical director of the Diagnostic Microbiology Department at Houston Methodist Hospital, states, “Those with comparatively weak immune systems need to be extra cautious.” However, everyone else should also exercise caution. No one wants to fall ill while traveling.
It’s challenging to ensure a room is completely germ-free. Thus, frequent handwashing is crucial, especially before eating. Additionally, following some precautions can help keep many pathogens at bay.
1. Glassware
Despite having various cleanliness protocols in place, germs may linger in room glassware or minibar containers. It’s often unclear whether these glasses have been properly cleaned. Dr. Long advises, “I generally try not to drink water from reusable glasses because many previous guests have touched or used them.” Some hotel staff may not clean all containers thoroughly. If they believe a guest hasn’t used the glass, they may just rinse it with water, which may not be sufficient for germ removal. To stay safe, you can request disposable cups or carry portable, reusable cups with you.
2. Bathrooms and Taps
Germs can hide on bathroom floors if not cleaned properly, but the biggest breeding ground for germs can be the taps or shower handles. Dr. Stagg believes, “Often, the cloth used to clean the toilet is also used to clean the taps or surrounding areas. This can transfer toilet germs to the taps and other fixtures.” This can lead to the spread of various viruses, including gastrointestinal infections. The same cloth may be used in different rooms. Dr. Long recommends keeping personal items like toothbrushes or razors away from bathroom surfaces, storing them in a bag brought from home instead.
3. Remote Controls
Remote controls are among the most touched items in hotels. Many hotels claim to clean TV remote controls adequately, but this claim is often questionable. In the post-COVID era, many hotels cover remote controls with plastic wraps, making them easier to disinfect. However, Dr. Long advises washing your hands after each use of the remote. If it isn’t covered in plastic, consider placing it in a plastic or poly bag before using it.
4. Tables
Hotel tables are constantly in use—people place food, work on laptops, or lay dirty clothes on them. Therefore, the likelihood of germs on tables is quite high. It’s best to clean the table with sanitizer before use to prevent germs from spreading to your laptop, papers, or food.
5. Telephones
When we need something in the hotel, we quickly grab the room telephone. Before doing so next time, be cautious. The phone is not only touched with hands but also held near the mouth while speaking. This can allow dangerous bacteria, like MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), to linger on the phone. These bacteria can cause severe skin infections, and harmful respiratory viruses, including E. coli, may also be present. If you must talk, it’s better to use the speakerphone.
6. Coffee Makers
A study has found evidence of bacteria inside coffee machines after just a year of use. Dr. Stagg also believes that coffee makers can harbor fungi and respiratory viruses. Therefore, if there’s a coffee maker in your hotel room, it’s best to avoid using it. Instead, consider getting coffee from the hotel lobby. If you really don’t want to leave your room, check if you can use single-use pods in the machine. In this case, also use disposable cups. If you notice that your room’s coffee maker appears old or dirty, you can request a new machine from the staff.
7. Beds and Pillows
After a long day of travel, one may feel inclined to collapse onto the hotel bed. Pause for a moment and look around. If any part of the bed appears dirty, request fresh sheets immediately. Dr. Stagg has shared a shocking fact: “Dirty sheets, blankets, and pillow covers in hotels may harbor germs associated with sexually transmitted diseases.” As soon as you enter the hotel room, call for staff to bring additional pillow covers so you can choose clean ones yourself. Additionally, some pillows are placed for decorative purposes; it’s best not to use these, as they are rarely cleaned.
Staying Safe While Traveling
Traveling can be a delightful experience, but it’s crucial to remain vigilant about cleanliness in hotels. Awareness of the potential germ hotspots can significantly enhance your safety and health during your stay. Always prioritize personal hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and using sanitizers. Additionally, consider bringing your own travel essentials, like reusable cups and cleaning wipes, to ensure a cleaner environment. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your travels to destinations like Cox’s Bazar with peace of mind, knowing you’re doing your best to protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful germs. Safe travels!
