When checking into a hotel, you may have seen some people pour a kettle of boiling water into the toilet. It may seem unusual at first, but this simple act is actually a smart hygiene practice that can help protect your health during your stay.

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Boiling Water in the Toilet: A Simple Way to Disinfect

Hotel toilets are public spaces, used frequently by many guests. This means they can harbor various bacteria, including E. coli and Salmonella, which are invisible to the naked eye but can cause digestive issues, skin infections, or discomfort if they come into contact with your body.

Pouring boiling water into the toilet, especially around the seat area, is an easy and effective way to disinfect. High temperatures quickly destroy the biological structure of bacteria, reducing the risk of infection. For safety, wait a moment after pouring to allow the toilet to cool before using it.

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Other Hotel Items That May Require Disinfection

Bath Towels

Even though hotels regularly change towels, they can still carry germs due to imperfect washing or previous use. Some guests may also use towels for purposes other than personal hygiene, like cleaning floors or shoes. To ensure cleanliness, you can soak towels in hot water briefly or bring your own personal towel.

Slippers

Hotel slippers are often shared by multiple guests and can harbor foot fungi or bacteria. If the previous guest had conditions like athlete’s foot, the next guest could be exposed. When possible, boil slippers in water or bring your own lightweight pair.

Kettle and Hot Water Pots

Kettles provided by hotels can contain residual bacteria or dirt from previous use. Pouring boiling water through the kettle before use can help clean it. For maximum safety, consider drinking bottled water or bringing a personal travel kettle.

Remote Controls and Light Switches

These seemingly harmless objects are touched by many people and can act as germ carriers. Wiping them with a disinfectant cloth before use can reduce the risk of infection.

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Tips for Safer Hotel Stays

1. Choose a Reputable Hotel
   Opt for hotels with high hygiene standards and good reviews. They typically pay more attention to cleaning and disinfecting rooms thoroughly, ensuring a safer stay.

2. Check the Cleaning Procedures
   Ask the front desk about their cleaning schedule. If possible, request freshly changed bed sheets, pillowcases, and other easily contaminated items.

3. Bring Essential Hygiene Items
   Carry personal items like disinfectant wipes, a travel kettle, or small hand sanitizers for added protection.

4. Maintain Personal Hygiene
   Wash hands frequently, avoid touching public surfaces unnecessarily, and use only disinfected cutlery or dishes. These habits reduce the risk of infections and make your trip healthier and more enjoyable.

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By taking these simple precautions—pouring boiling water, wiping down surfaces, and maintaining personal hygiene—you can significantly reduce your risk of exposure to harmful bacteria and enjoy a safer, more comfortable hotel stay.