The 'Three No-Touch, Four Take-Away' Rule Every Hotel Guest Should Know

Understanding the "Three No-Touch, Four Take-Away" rule when staying at a hotel can help you avoid unnecessary risks and save money on your trip. This travel tip, shared by experienced travelers, ensures a safer, cleaner, and more cost-effective hotel stay.

 

 

The 'Three No-Touch' Rule – What You Should Avoid

1. The Kettle

Most hotel rooms come with an electric kettle, but think twice before using it. Some guests have been known to use kettles for all sorts of things—boiling eggs, cooking instant noodles, or even sterilizing socks and underwear! This makes the kettle a potential breeding ground for bacteria and odors.

Tip: If you must use it, wash it thoroughly, boil a full cycle of water, discard it, and only then use it for making drinks.

2. Plastic Slippers

Luxury hotels provide disposable slippers, but budget hotels and motels often offer reusable plastic slippers to cut costs. These slippers are rarely cleaned properly, meaning they could harbor bacteria or fungi from previous guests.

Tip: To protect your feet, bring your own slippers or wear socks when walking around your hotel room.

3. The Hotel Toilet

Hotel bathrooms may look clean, but keep in mind that they have been used by many guests before you. Even with regular cleaning, some areas might be missed or inadequately sanitized.

Tip: Avoid direct contact with the toilet seat—use toilet paper as a barrier or carry a disposable toilet seat cover. Wash your hands thoroughly after touching surfaces in the bathroom.

The 'Four Take-Away' Rule – What You Can Keep

Not everything in a hotel room is off-limits! Some complimentary items are included in your room rate, meaning you’ve technically paid for them and can take them with you.

1. Bottled Water

Most hotels provide two free bottles of water per day. If you haven’t used them, take them with you when checking out—they’ll come in handy during your travels.

2. Coffee and Tea

Hotels often offer complimentary coffee, tea bags, sugar, and creamer in your room. As long as they aren’t labeled with a price, they are free for you to use or take home.

3. Toiletries

Small-sized toiletries such as shampoo, shower gel, toothbrushes, razors, combs, and shower caps are usually free to take. Since they won’t be reused for the next guest, leaving them behind is simply wasting something you’ve already paid for.

4. Disposable Slippers

Many hotels provide soft disposable slippers for guests. If you’re in a double room alone, you may have an extra unused pair. These slippers can be useful for wearing at home, on long flights, or in public showers.

Being mindful of what to avoid and what to take can help you stay safe, save money, and make the most of your hotel stay. Keep this 'Three No-Touch, Four Take-Away' rule in mind for your next trip!