14 Things You Should Always Sanitize in a Hotel Room

When you check into a hotel, you might assume everything has been thoroughly cleaned – but not all high-touch surfaces get the attention they need. To protect yourself from lingering germs, viruses, or allergens, it’s smart to give a few key items a quick wipe-down with disinfectant wipes or spray.

1. TV Remote Control

TV Remote Control
© Reviewed

Studies frequently highlight how rarely these are sanitized between guests. With countless fingers having pressed its buttons, the remote becomes a hotspot for bacteria.

Next time you check in, grab a disinfectant wipe and give the remote a thorough cleaning. It’s a simple action that can significantly reduce your exposure to germs. Remember, while the remote may be small, its potential to harbor unwanted pathogens is surprisingly large. A clean remote means more comfortable, carefree entertainment during your stay.

2. Light Switches

Light Switches
© Macomb Daily

The seemingly innocuous light switch is a small but mighty germ collector. These switches are often overlooked during routine cleanings.

Before settling into your hotel room, take a moment to wipe down all the light switches. This includes the main room, bathroom, and bedside lamps. This small action can drastically cut down on the unseen germs that accumulate from multiple guests.

While sanitizing, consider it a brief pause to appreciate the simple convenience of electricity, now made safer for your touch. Clean light switches promise a brighter, healthier stay.

3. Faucet Handles

Faucet Handles
© Tom’s Guide

Ironically, the place meant to clean us is often teeming with bacteria. Faucet handles in hotel rooms see a lot of action but not always a lot of cleaning.

Make it a habit to disinfect these handles as soon as you enter. Focus on both the sink and shower handles. This small gesture ensures that every turn of the tap provides not only water but also peace of mind.

By keeping faucet handles clean, you can enjoy the refreshing water flow without the worry of lingering germs. A sanitized handle means a truly clean experience.

4. Nightstand Surfaces

Nightstand Surfaces
© Maya’s Professional

Nightstand surfaces often become unintended germ gathering spots.

Before settling your belongings, wipe down the nightstand with a disinfectant. This simple act protects your personal items from the cross-contamination of germs. You’re not just cleaning; you’re securing your personal space.

A clean nightstand isn’t just about hygiene; it’s about maintaining the sanctity of your personal resting area. With each wipe, you ensure that your belongings rest on a fresh, uncontaminated surface, promoting a peaceful night’s sleep.

5. Alarm Clock/Buttons

Alarm Clock/Buttons
© Reddit

The humble hotel alarm clock: essential for early risers, yet seldom cleaned. Buttons on these devices collect germs as guests adjust alarms and settings.

Before setting your wake-up call, take a moment to sanitize those buttons and surfaces. This small effort ensures that your hand is the only one your immune system needs to consider.

A clean alarm clock means waking up to a fresh start each day. It’s not just about timekeeping; it’s about starting your day without a hitch from hidden germs. Your morning should be about waking up to possibilities, not bacteria.

6. Desk and Table Tops

Desk and Table Tops
© Dish!Blog – Martin Bros. Distributing

Desks and table tops see a variety of activities and are often forgotten during cleaning.

To ensure a clean workspace or dining area, wipe these surfaces upon entering your room. This action provides a fresh start for your tasks or meals.

A sanitary table top not only enhances your productivity but also adds to the comfort of your stay. By disinfecting these surfaces, you transform them into clean, inviting spaces. Each clean wipe is an investment in a germ-free experience.

7. Doorknobs and Handles

Doorknobs and Handles
© Unsplash

Doorknobs and handles are silent witnesses to every guest’s comings and goings. Often, these high-contact points escape thorough cleaning routines.

Upon entering your room, your first task should be to sanitize all doorknobs and handles, including those on the main door, bathroom, and even closets. Each wipe effectively removes layers of microbial history left by previous guests.

This simple ritual ensures that your hands remain your own, unmarked by unknown germs. A clean doorknob isn’t just a gleaming entrance; it’s your gateway to a healthier stay.

8. Phone Handset and Keypad

Phone Handset and Keypad
© Ningbo Yosec Industrial Co., Ltd.

Hotel phones often go unnoticed but are touched by many. The handset and keypad become gathering spots for germs and bacteria over time.

Before making a call, wipe down the phone parts you will touch. This precaution ensures that your communication doesn’t come with unwanted guests.

A clean phone allows for clear, worry-free connections. It’s more than a communication tool—it’s your link to the outside world, now purified from unseen pathogens. With each sanitized call, you engage without concern, keeping your conversations as clear as your conscience.

9. Coffee Maker and Mugs

Coffee Maker and Mugs
© New York Post

The allure of a fresh cup of coffee in your room is strong, but so is the potential for germs in the coffee maker and mugs. These items are not always cleaned thoroughly between guests.

Run a cleaning cycle with hot water or wash the mug before use. This ensures your morning brew is free from previous occupants’ residue.

A clean coffee maker means starting your day with confidence and a great cup of coffee. A little cleaning effort leads to a more satisfying wake-up ritual, ensuring that each sip is as safe as it is satisfying.

10. Bathroom Countertops

Bathroom Countertops
© Zogics

These surfaces often collect residue from toiletries, making them a bacterial hotspot.

Take a moment to wipe down the counter before arranging your items. This simple gesture ensures your personal hygiene tools remain clean and effective.

A sanitized countertop transforms your bathroom into a safe space for self-care. It’s about creating a pristine environment for personal rituals. With every wipe, you ensure a healthier grooming routine, undisturbed by unseen bacteria.

11. Hairdryer Handle

Hairdryer Handle
© Hotel Supply Depot

The convenience of a hotel hairdryer can be offset by the germs left behind by countless users. Handles and switches are often skipped in regular cleaning.

Before styling your hair, give the dryer a quick wipe down. This ensures that your grooming doesn’t include uninvited bacterial guests.

A clean hairdryer means styling without worry, focusing only on your look. Elevate your grooming routine with a simple disinfectant wipe, ensuring that the tool you use is as clean as your fresh hairstyle.

12. Closet Hangers

Closet Hangers
© Daily Record

Closet hangers might seem low-risk, but they accumulate germs through repeated handling.

Wipe down the hangers before use, especially if you’re hanging delicate or personal items. This small step ensures your clothes remain as fresh as when you packed them.

Clean hangers contribute to maintaining the quality of your wardrobe. They are not just functional tools but guardians of your attire’s cleanliness. Every swipe of the disinfectant guarantees that your clothes are exposed only to their intended wear.

13. Room Thermostat Controls

Room Thermostat Controls
© Reddit

Adjusting the room temperature should be a comfort, not a concern. Thermostat controls, often touched but rarely cleaned, can host germs.

Sanitize the controls before setting your ideal climate. This ensures that your comfort doesn’t come at the price of contamination.

A clean thermostat means peace of mind with every temperature change. It’s about creating the perfect environment without the worry of hidden germs. Each sanitized button press adds to the comfort and health of your stay.

14. Lamps and Bedside Controls

Lamps and Bedside Controls
© CNN

Lamps and bedside controls are essential for comfort but can also harbor germs from frequent use.

Wipe down all switches and controls to ensure they’re safe to use. This simple task enhances your room’s ambiance and your peace of mind.

Clean lamps and controls mean a well-lit, worry-free environment. They’re not just about lighting; they’re about creating a space you can relax in, free from the shadow of germs. Every sanitized switch flick contributes to a serene and safe hotel stay.

Publish Date: September 30, 2025

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