A former hotel employee has taken to Reddit to expose a common cleanliness shortcut in the hospitality industry. The anonymous insider warned that top blankets and decorative throws on hotel beds are not washed regularly, despite being used by guests. The revelation has sparked concern among travellers who assume all bedding is changed between stays.
According to the ex-housekeeper, these items, often referred to as 'soft goods', are typically only spot-cleaned or laundered during infrequent deep cleans. Unlike sheets, pillowcases, and towels, which must be sanitised after each guest due to direct skin contact, there is no legal requirement for hotels to wash decorative throws after every checkout. The decision is left to individual hotel standards.
Another Reddit user claimed that even top sheets are sometimes skipped by rushed staff. 'They didn't care about the job or hotel guests at all, especially the top sheets,' the user alleged, advising guests to remove the top sheet if concerned about cleanliness. The forum also suggested inspecting beds for small red spots, which could indicate bedbugs, and requesting a room change if anything looks amiss.
Further insider tips included advice on drinking glasses. The former employee alleged that around 99% of hotels do not change glasses between guests, instead rinsing them in the bathroom without dishwashing liquid. They recommended asking for new glasses and water bottles upon arrival.
