When you check into a hotel, there’s one tip that might seem surprising but could be very helpful: boil a pot of water and pour it into the toilet. According to a hotel housekeeper’s advice shared on Sohu, this unusual practice can improve hygiene and safety in your hotel room. The tip revolves around the electric kettle, a common appliance found in most hotel rooms, whether budget-friendly or high-end. But why should you start your stay with this peculiar action? Let’s dive into the reasons behind it.
Initially, this advice can seem puzzling. Typically, travelers are reminded to check for hidden cameras, assess the cleanliness of the sheets, towels, and slippers, and ensure that the room’s amenities like the phone, TV, and WiFi are functional. However, Sohu points out that despite efforts to maintain high standards, not all hotels can fully meet hygiene requirements. This reality makes it crucial for guests to take their own steps to ensure their well-being, starting with the bathroom, which is one of the most bacteria-prone areas in a hotel room.
Boiling water and pouring it into the toilet is meant to act as a simple yet effective disinfectant. The toilet bowl is one of the dirtiest spots in the room, with bacteria that may not be fully removed during regular cleaning. Pouring hot water into the toilet helps kill some of the bacteria, reducing the risk of potential infections from germs left by previous guests. Additionally, pouring boiling water into corners of the bathroom can help combat germs that standard cleaning might miss, making it a proactive measure for personal safety.
Another aspect to consider is the cleanliness of the electric kettle itself. While many travelers use it to boil water for drinking, its condition can be uncertain. Not all guests use kettles responsibly, and some may use them for cooking noodles, making soups, or even boiling seafood. There have even been reports of individuals washing clothes like socks or underwear in the kettle. This misuse can result in unsanitary residues that regular cleaning may not catch. Boiling water as soon as you arrive not only cleans the toilet but also “sterilizes” the kettle, making it safer for future use.
The act of boiling water serves two essential purposes: disinfecting the toilet area and ensuring the kettle is clean enough for personal use. Many hotel guests rely on tap water for drinking, as bottled water from the minibar can be costly or may not always be safe. Boiling tap water is a safer alternative, but it can only be trusted if the kettle is clean. If you’re unsure about the kettle’s history or its cleanliness, boiling water is a crucial step to minimize potential risks.
However, this tip is not meant to replace other safety measures. Guests should still inspect their rooms for odd odors, unclean surfaces, or signs of neglect. Opting for reputable hotels with good reviews is the best way to minimize the need for drastic measures like boiling water upon arrival. But in less reliable hotels, this action can offer peace of mind when you’re unsure about the overall cleanliness of the room.
If you have the extra luggage space, bringing along personal hygiene items like disinfecting wipes, bottled water, and even a portable kettle can enhance safety. While it may seem overcautious, these measures can significantly improve your hotel stay, especially in unfamiliar places.
In conclusion, boiling water and pouring it into the toilet may sound extreme, but it is a precaution that can protect you from germs and potential infections during your hotel stay. While it’s always best to choose reputable hotels, this tip serves as a last line of defense when cleanliness is uncertain. Taking these steps can help you maintain better personal hygiene and reduce health risks while traveling.
