Guests wash underwear in kettles: Hotels.com survey reveals worst hotel behavior

A survey conducted by hotel booking platform Hotels.com has shed light on the worst etiquette violations committed by guests during their hotel stays. The findings reveal a range of inconsiderate behaviors that disrupt the experience for other travelers and hotel staff.

According to the survey of American travelers, over half of respondents consider it important to avoid actions that disturb other guests, such as slamming doors late at night. Additionally, 40% of participants identified rude behavior towards hotel staff as one of the most serious breaches of etiquette.

Noise disturbances were a significant complaint. Beyond loud doors, guests talking loudly in hallways or playing music at high volumes were also cited as bothersome. Pet owners were also noted for issues, with pets being allowed to roam public spaces without leashes, prompting over 40% of respondents to say they would report such incidents to hotel staff.

The survey also uncovered instances of guests taking hotel property. Approximately 25% admitted to taking food from the breakfast buffet for later consumption, while 16% confessed to taking toiletries from housekeeping carts.

Perhaps the most shocking revelation was that 5% of all travelers admitted to washing their underwear in an electric kettle in their hotel room. In contrast, public displays of affection in areas like swimming pools or common spaces were viewed more leniently, with only 10% considering it rude.

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There are implicit etiquette rules that can draw the ire of other guests, even if they don't lead to eviction.