A travel expert has issued a stark warning to holidaymakers about a common item found in hotel bathrooms that could pose an unexpected risk. While many guests enjoy the complimentary amenities, one professional urges caution before using them.
The Hidden Dangers in Hotel Dispensers
Denise McCabe, an experienced traveller with Ireland Prestige Tours, advises guests to think twice before using refillable shampoo, conditioner, and body wash dispensers. These fixtures have become more common in recent years, largely promoted for their environmental benefits. However, Denise warns that their reality can be "rather disturbing".
"Once a bottle has been opened and refilled multiple times, there's always a question mark," she states. "I've heard and seen enough over the years to know it's not just shampoo that ends up in those bottles."
She recounts personal experiences of dispensers with odd smells or strange textures and colleagues' reports of finding products like hair removal cream mixed in. "Once that thought is in your head, you can't unthink it," she adds.
How to Identify Safe Hotel Toiletries
Not all dispensers are problematic, according to Denise. She acknowledges that some are perfectly safe to use. The key differentiator is security. Wall-mounted units that are securely locked and require a specific key accessible only to hotel staff are generally trustworthy.
"If you can see that the bottle is securely locked and can only be opened by staff, then it's much less likely anyone has interfered with it," she advises. "In those cases, I'm far less concerned because the contents are controlled by housekeeping."
She cautions, however, that some bottles may appear secure when they are not, so if there is any uncertainty, it is best to err on the side of caution.
The Simple Travel Solution for Peace of Mind
For Denise, the solution is straightforward and eliminates all worry. "I always travel with my own miniature toiletries," she reveals. "A small bottle of shampoo, conditioner and body wash takes up very little space and removes all the guesswork."
She highlights that travel-sized items are easy to manage and mean you don't have to carry full-sized bottles. If your favourite products don't come in miniature form, she suggests buying empty bottles and decanting a few days' worth from your larger containers at home.
This practice offers another significant advantage. "Using your own products means you're not suddenly switching brands or formulas, which can irritate your skin or scalp," Denise explains. "That's especially important if you have sensitive skin or allergies."
By packing these essentials, travellers can enjoy their stay without the nagging doubt about what might be lurking in those seemingly innocent hotel dispensers.
