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TV remote -

The remote control is one of the most frequently touched objects in a hotel room, but is rarely disinfected properly.

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TV remote -

Guests handle it after eating, coughing, or using the bathroom, making it a prime breeding ground for bacteria and viruses.

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Light switches -

Light switches, especially those near the entryway and bedside, are touched by nearly every guest, but are often overlooked during housekeeping.

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Light switches -

Because they're small, they don't always receive the same cleaning attention as larger surfaces. However, they can accumulate germs from multiple guests, potentially spreading bacteria and viruses.

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Bedspread and comforter -

Unlike sheets and pillowcases, which are changed between guests, bedspreads, and comforters are washed much less frequently.

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Bedspread and comforter -

Some hotels only launder them a few times a year, meaning they can harbor sweat, bacteria, and even bodily fluids from previous guests.

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Bathroom faucet handles -

Since guests touch bathroom faucet handles before washing their hands, they can accumulate bacteria, viruses, and other germs.

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Bathroom faucet handles -

Housekeeping may clean the sink and mirror, but sometimes miss wiping down faucet handles thoroughly. Tests have found that they often contain traces of fecal matter and other harmful bacteria.

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Phone handset -

The in-room phone may not seem like a major risk, but it's one of the least frequently sanitized objects in a hotel room.

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Phone handset -

Guests often handle the phone while eating or after touching their face, transferring bacteria onto the receiver.

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Desk and nightstand -

These surfaces collect dust, spills, and bacteria from guests who place drinks, bags, and other items on them.

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Desk and nightstand -

Wiping them down with a disinfectant wipe before use can help reduce germ exposure.

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Carpet -

Hotel carpets see heavy foot traffic, absorbing dirt, bacteria, and allergens from countless shoes.

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Carpet -

Vacuuming helps, but deep cleaning is rare, letting germs build up. Walking barefoot can expose you to bacteria, fungi, and even bedbugs.

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Toilet flush handle -

Just like faucet handles, toilet flush handles are touched before handwashing, making them a germ hotspot.

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Toilet flush handle -

Many guests don't realize how dirty they can be, so consider using a tissue or sanitizing wipe before touching the handle.

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Curtains -

Curtains are seldom washed, despite absorbing dust, allergens, and even mold spores. They're frequently touched when guests open or close them, but are rarely disinfected between stays.

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Curtains -

If you're sensitive to dust or mold, avoid touching the curtains or wash your hands afterward.

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Mini fridge handle -

The mini fridge is often stocked and used by multiple guests, but the handle is rarely disinfected.

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Mini fridge handle -

If you plan to store food in the fridge, consider wiping down the handle with a sanitizing wipe first.

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Kettle and coffee maker -

Coffee makers and kettles in hotel rooms can harbor mold, bacteria, and residue due to infrequent cleaning. Many hotels only rinse them rather than properly sanitizing.

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Kettle and coffee maker -

Run a cycle with hot water before use, rinse thoroughly, or bring disposable filters or a travel kettle for hygiene and peace of mind.

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Door handles -

Door handles are high-contact surfaces that may not receive thorough cleaning. Since they're constantly touched by guests and staff, bacteria and viruses can linger.

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Door handles -

Using a tissue or hand sanitizer after touching door handles can help reduce the risk of exposure.

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Sofa and chairs -

Sofas and chairs in hotel rooms are rarely deep-cleaned, making them a hotspot for dust, bacteria, and stains. Previous guests may have left behind sweat, food crumbs, or worse.

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Sofa and chairs -

Therefore, avoid sitting directly on upholstered surfaces, especially with bare skin.

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Ice bucket and tongs -

Many guests use ice buckets without liners, allowing bacteria and mold to build up inside. Since they're rarely washed between stays, they can be a hidden source of germs.

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Ice bucket and tongs -

If you plan to use the ice bucket, request a fresh liner from the front desk or wash the bucket with hot water and soap first.

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What should you do if your room is too dirty to stay in? -

Immediately inform the front desk and request a different room. If the issue persists, ask for housekeeping, escalate to management, or consider switching hotels.

Sources: (Reader's Digest) (HuffPost) (Forbes) 

See also: Things you shouldn't do while staying in a hotel

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