Many people are surprised to find a telephone next to the toilet, questioning its purpose. However, for those who traveled in the 1980s and 1990s, this was a hallmark of a luxury hotel. At that time, bathroom telephones were considered the epitome of modern convenience—a luxury that was not strictly necessary but demonstrated meticulous attention to detail, similar to installing a television above the bathtub.

Telephone in a hotel bathroom. Photo: Reddit

The widespread use of mobile phones has led many to believe these devices are obsolete. A five-star hotel employee in London previously stated their establishment had removed bathroom telephones due to lack of demand. However, when re-questioned, the hotel did not confirm this information, likely because no luxury accommodation wants to publicly acknowledge removing a amenity once linked to its prestigious image.

Jonathan Toni, Chief Executive Officer of Hotel Technology International (UK), a company specializing in manufacturing and supplying bathroom telephones for hotels, stated there are very valid reasons to maintain these devices, particularly regarding safety.

According to the Chief Executive Officer of Hotel Technology International, bathroom telephones are still considered a symbol of luxury. Many 4- and five-star hotels view this as a differentiating detail in their service. A number of three-star hotels now also include bathroom telephones in their list of standard amenities.

Traditional hotels in Japan still feature bathroom telephone designs. Photo: @onemileatatime.

Some hotel equipment suppliers argue that bathroom telephones still have a reason to exist. Initially, they were installed so guests could receive calls while in the bathroom. However, safety remains the most crucial reason and is still relevant today.

In the UK, the Automobile Association (AA), which has operated the hotel rating system since 1912, no longer includes bathroom telephones in its evaluation criteria. Nevertheless, the AA still requires five-star hotels to provide a variety of premium bathroom amenities and accessories.

A five-star hotel located in Hyde Park, London, stated they retained bathroom telephones after a major renovation. According to the hotel manager, bathrooms are the most accident-prone areas, making a readily available communication device a crucial safety feature. Furthermore, the telephones support 24/7 butler service, allowing guests to request assistance at any time.

According to the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA), approximately two-thirds of the world's population currently owns a mobile phone. Despite this, in many luxury hotels, bathroom telephones appear to remain a "legacy amenity" that has not disappeared, serving both a symbolic purpose and providing safety and premium service.

Tuan Anh (The Telegraph)