Hotel Beds Are Changing to Accomodate Our Fear of Germs
Many hotel chains, took note of how uncomfortable guests became and how much they began to look for those potential hidden ickies. Over the last year, those of us who travel have seen the hotels begin to address this particular issue with color-or no color-white! White bedspreads are now the rage. The theory is that, if there is something on a white spread, it will be seen and addressed.
According to the hotels, the guests are very complimentary of the white approach and say guests believe things are cleaner. (We hope they are using hot water and bleach or some other germicide when they wash.) Hotel employees-in particular housekeeping and laundry-may be a bit less pleased with the change. The white means more pulling of spreads and more laundry and, if a spot gets missed the, front desk and management are quickly advised by the guest. So, they are more “on the spot” so to speak.
The white bedspread may make us feel safer, but do stay vigilant. People who rent hotel rooms rarely care about what they leave behind. All soft surfaces have the potential to retain-let’s call it DNA-from the previous guests. The furniture, the carpet, the drapes, even the walls may hold surprises. What is that yellow green blob on the wall? This is particularly true of hotels that have a significant number of weekend local guests. These are the guests that, for whatever reason, don’t want to do whatever it is they are going to do at home. Use your imagination and remember that the bed isn’t the only piece of furniture in the room.
They now make small hand held black lights that can be used to check the room. Oh, and don’t forget that while housekeepers may be required to change the sheets after each guest, that doesn’t mean it happens. Turn the bed down and take a good look before you climb between the sheets or you may be climbing in with the genetic material of the previous guest. Better yet, consider a travel sleep sack. Who wants a rash?
Related Associated Content Articles
How to Make a Travel Sandwich by Melissa Field
Ten Tips for Business Travel by Kay Reynolds
Safety Travel Tips for Women by Kassidy Emmerson
