Why hotel shampoos might be riskier than you think, according to an expert

When you’re traveling, hotels often promise comfort, convenience, and a little luxury. But according to a former hotel manager turned TikTok influencer, not everything in your hotel room is as safe as it seems—and that includes the shampoo bottles sitting in the bathroom.

The Hidden Risks of Hotel Shampoo Bottles

It’s not uncommon to find small bottles of shampoo and conditioner tucked away in the hotel bathroom. While they seem like a simple convenience, a former hotel manager, who now shares travel tips on TikTok under the username @travelinghotelmanager, has issued a surprising warning: don’t use the hotel shampoo.

In a now-viral TikTok video, she explains a crucial issue with these small bottles: the bottles are often not sealed properly. This means they can be easily tampered with, and anyone—from hotel staff to previous guests—could potentially add something harmful to the contents. She mentions scenarios like bleach or other toxic chemicals being poured into the shampoo, which could lead to skin reactions, hair damage, or worse. With over 600,000 views, her warning has sparked a significant amount of concern.

While it may seem far-fetched, consider the fact that many hotel amenities are not subjected to the same rigorous standards as products you’d buy in a store. The lack of sealed packaging allows for tampering, creating an uninviting situation for anyone thinking they’re just getting a simple shower experience.

The Solution: Bring Your Own Products

So, what can you do to protect yourself? The former hotel manager has a straightforward solution: bring your own toiletries. She recommends traveling with your personal hair care and body wash products in small, travel-sized bottles—preferably under 100 ml to avoid exceeding airport liquid limits.

This simple habit allows you to avoid the risks associated with hotel amenities while still ensuring you have your trusted products. Plus, you can maintain your usual routine without the hassle of worrying about what’s inside those unsealed bottles.

Hotel Glasses: Another Hidden Danger?

But the warnings don’t stop there. In a separate video shared on her Instagram account, the ex-hotel manager dives into another shocking issue: the cleanliness of hotel glasses. She claims that more often than not, the glasses in your hotel room are not thoroughly cleaned. In fact, she’s seen hotel staff use pillowcases to dust them off instead of properly washing them.

This practice, while perhaps convenient for housekeeping, can result in germs and bacteria accumulating on the glasses, which might not be visible to the eye but can definitely affect your health. She suggests washing the glasses yourself before use—or better yet, opting for bottled water and drinks to minimize contact with potentially contaminated surfaces.

Travel Smart: Stay Ahead of the Risks

While these revelations might make you rethink your next hotel stay, they serve as a reminder that not everything that glitters in the hospitality industry is gold. Whether it’s shampoo bottles or drinking glasses, taking a few simple steps can help you avoid unnecessary health risks during your travels.

Ultimately, being cautious and prepared goes a long way in ensuring you stay safe and healthy while traveling. After all, your comfort and well-being are worth a little extra effort. So, pack your favorite products, stay vigilant, and enjoy your travels with confidence!