Checking into a hotel can offer a slice of luxury with plush beds, crisp bedding, and chic bathrooms, but guests are being warned about a common amenity: the kettle. Etiquette expert William Hanson has exclusively told the Mirror that people often use the kettle like a washing machine for smaller items, such as underwear. Research from Hotels.com found that 23% of Brits have washed underwear in the hotel kettle, a practice Hanson calls unacceptable.
Expert Advice on Kettle Safety
Hanson, who has stayed at hotels worldwide, said: "Even if in some bizarre alternate universe, that was acceptable, I don't think you're going to get the result that you think you are going to get from that. That's not even a very good way to clean them." He recommends using hotel laundry services or buying new underwear instead. For those who must use the kettle, Hanson advises: "I would always boil the kettle first, on empty, dispose of the water, and then start again, just because I think it's just better all round. It will also help remove some of the limescale if it's in there."
Other Disgusting Uses and Hotel Etiquette
In addition to laundry, guests have reportedly used the kettle to cook noodles directly. Hanson commented: "By all means, use the kettle to cook your noodles, but not in the kettle." Beyond the kettle, hotel etiquette is also a concern. Hotels.com research shows 40% of Brits believe their hotel manners are slipping, with 51% confessing to being rude to staff, 43% being loud in hallways, and 25% leaving their room excessively messy. Hanson emphasizes that better etiquette benefits guests directly, leading to improved service and potential savings.
Hanson's Grand Etiquette Hotel Guide
To help guests improve their hotel behavior, Hanson created a guide with Hotels.com. Key tips include: treating staff with respect for personalized service; keeping quiet in hallways; drinking moderately in shared spaces; avoiding smoking indoors; keeping the room tidy for housekeeping; using the kettle only for hot drinks; not stealing large items; queuing at breakfast buffets; not reserving sun loungers with towels; and joining loyalty programs for rewards like Hotels.com Rewards, which offers £100 in Hotels.com cash after 10 eligible nights.
