The Hidden Truth About Hotel Decorative Pillows and Blankets
If you have ever stayed in a hotel, you have probably heard the unsettling rumor that decorative pillows and blankets are not washed as frequently as other linens. This notion often causes travelers to squirm at the thought of cuddling with a throw blanket or allowing children to play with ornamental pillows. But is this concern valid? Experts have shared insights with HuffPost on what to worry about—and what not to—regarding decorative linens in hotel rooms, shedding light on their actual cleaning schedules.
Decorative Items Are Not Part of Daily Cleaning
It is true: decorative pillows and blankets in hotels generally do not undergo daily cleaning. According to Magnus Thorsson, a professor in the college of hospitality and business at Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island and a former hotel owner, these items are part of routine cleaning rather than the daily refresh that bedsheets and towels receive. Thorsson clarifies that this refers to extras like pillows strewn on beds or couches and throws folded at the foot of the bed, which are considered non-guest touching items.
These decorative pieces fall into a different cleaning category. Daily cleaning involves making beds and refreshing items that guests directly contact, but decorative pillows and blankets are not changed between every customer because they typically do not touch the guest's skin. For instance, most people use bedsheets as a barrier between their body and a decorative blanket.
Cleaning Cycles Depend on Hotel Standards
The frequency of cleaning for ornamental items varies by hotel brand and star rating, but a customary range is every 60 to 90 days. Thorsson notes that higher service levels usually correlate with more frequent cleanliness, though lower-tier brands still adhere to some cleaning regimen. The infrequent washing is justified by the limited contact with guests, but experts warn that short-term rentals like Airbnb lack standardized procedures, making them less regulated.
Jason Tetro, a microbiologist and author of The Germ Code, emphasizes that hotels follow guidelines from the American Hotel and Lodging Association, whereas short-term rentals operate in a Wild West environment without enforced standards. To assess cleanliness, Tetro suggests observing housekeeping carts: you should see sheets, pillowcases, and comforters, but not throw pillow cases or decorative blankets, which are cleaned less often.
Why Decorative Linens Are Germy and What Risks They Pose
Due to infrequent washing, throw pillows and blankets are absolutely germy, as Tetro describes. They are touched by guests and staff, exposed to spills, and may contact dirty floors. Hotels often use white linens for frequently laundered items because hot water cleaning is feasible, whereas colored or textured decorative items cannot withstand such cycles, leading to designs that hide stains.
While catching a cold or flu from these items is unlikely for healthy individuals, risks include skin infections from bacteria exposure, especially if pillows touch the face or arms. Dust mites and bed bugs are additional concerns, particularly for immunocompromised people, older adults, and children. Experts advise pushing aside decorative items and using fresh linens instead.
Practical Tips for Travelers
To stay safe, experts recommend simple precautions:
- Place decorative pillows and blankets on chairs or away from your face.
- Inspect items for stains, smells, dirt, or tears upon arrival.
- Report any issues to the front desk for immediate attention or room changes.
- Maintain clean hands and avoid direct contact with ornamental linens.
Thorsson reassures that hotels aim for guest safety and enjoyment, with guidelines in place even if decorative linens are not washed daily. While you should not eat off decorative pillows, there is no need to avoid hotels out of germ fear. By taking sensible measures, you can enjoy your stay without undue worry.
