According to India Today, many experts advise travelers to be cautious when using kettles and coffee makers in hotel rooms.
Most hotels maintain clean rooms, regularly changing bed linen, towels, and tidying spaces. However, cleaning staff often overlook appliances like kettles and coffee makers. These are sometimes merely wiped down, rarely receiving a thorough internal cleaning.
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An electric kettle in a hotel room. Photo: Supplies |
On social media platforms like Reddit and various travel communities, videos have surfaced depicting hotel room kettles used for unconventional purposes: washing socks, underwear, cooking instant noodles, or boiling eggs. While the frequency of such incidents is difficult to confirm, these viral posts have led many to question the hygiene of these appliances.
In 2019, an Australian traveler's post sparked widespread controversy when she shared using a hotel electric kettle to wash her underwear. The image of the garment inside the kettle drew strong online criticism, with many condemning the inconsiderate act and its potential impact on future guests.
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A female traveler using an electric kettle to wash clothes. Photo: Reddit |
People magazine reports that hotel room kettles and coffee makers are often among the least clean items because cleaning staff frequently overlook them or provide only superficial cleaning.
Microbiologists note that the humid environment inside these appliances creates ideal conditions for mold and bacteria growth. Consequently, guests should inspect or sanitize the equipment before use.
While some believe boiling water can clean a kettle, Dr. Pooja Pillai, an internist at Aster CMI Hospital (Bengaluru), explains that boiling water only eliminates some bacteria in the water; it does not ensure complete sanitization of the entire appliance.
Despite these concerns, experts advise against excessive worry. Millions use hotel kettles daily without issues. Controversial stories often stem from isolated incidents that gain traction on social media. If needed, guests can request the hotel to clean the appliance before use or bring their own travel kettle.
Tuan Anh (via People)
