When checking into a hotel, most people expect a clean, safe, and comfortable environment where they can relax, recharge, or focus on work or travel plans. Unfortunately, not all hotels meet those expectations, and certain red flags should never be ignored. Whether you’re staying in a budget motel or a five-star suite, your health and safety should always come first.
Some warning signs are more than just unpleasant—they can pose serious risks and signal that it’s time to pack up and leave immediately. Knowing what to look for can help you avoid an uncomfortable or even hazardous stay. One of the biggest red flags is the presence of bed bugs, which are small, brownish insects that feed on human blood, usually at night. These pests are not only incredibly difficult to get rid of, but they can also travel home with you in your luggage and infest your own living space. Upon arriving in a hotel room, your first task should be a quick inspection of the bed. Pull back the sheets and check the corners and seams of the mattress and box spring for tiny black spots, reddish stains, or shed skins—common signs of bed bug activity.
Examine the headboard, nightstands, and even the edges of carpets and upholstered furniture, as these insects often hide during the day. If you see any evidence of bed bugs, do not attempt to stay in the room, even for one night. Immediately notify hotel staff, request a refund, and look for alternative accommodations. Another sign that it’s time to check out is an overwhelming or foul odor. While every hotel has its own scent, the room should at least smell clean and neutral. A strong musty, sour, or chemical smell may indicate underlying problems such as mold, mildew, or poor sanitation. Mold spores, in particular, can lead to respiratory issues, especially for individuals with allergies or asthma. Pay attention to how the room smells as soon as you enter, and trust your instincts.
If you feel like something is off, there’s probably a reason for it. Sometimes, a quick glance at the bathroom or air conditioning unit can reveal the source of the problem—grimy grout, stained ceilings, or a leaky air vent are all signs that cleanliness and maintenance are not a priority for the hotel. If the room smells bad and appears dirty, chances are other areas of the hotel may be in similar or worse condition, and staying there could put your health at risk. The third warning sign to be aware of is visible signs of water damage or mold. This goes beyond an unpleasant smell and includes spotting actual physical damage.
Check the walls, ceilings, and bathroom corners for water stains, peeling wallpaper, warped wood, or discoloration. These may indicate not only mold but also the potential for structural problems. Bathrooms are especially vulnerable since they are exposed to constant moisture. Look around bathtubs, under the sink, and around toilets for mold growth, which often appears as black, green, or brown spots. Even if mold isn’t immediately dangerous, it can worsen health conditions and cause lingering irritation. If you see mold, it’s better to be cautious and relocate to another hotel. While these three issues—bed bugs, foul odors, and mold—are the top indicators that a hotel stay may not be safe, there are other things you can do to protect yourself. Before you even book a room, take a few minutes to read online reviews and look for patterns. If multiple guests mention cleanliness problems, you may want to consider a different location. Once in the room, always inspect the locks, test the lights and outlets, and check for signs of general upkeep. A hotel room doesn’t need to be luxurious, but it should absolutely be clean, functional, and safe. If any of these warning signs are present, don’t hesitate to leave. Your comfort and well-being are far more important than the inconvenience of switching hotels.
