Why You Should Keep the Bathroom Light On When Staying in a Hotel
It might seem like a strange habit, but leaving the bathroom light on when staying in a hotel or motel can actually make a big difference in your safety and comfort. Whether you’re traveling for work or vacation, this simple tip offers a range of benefits—from keeping pests at bay to helping you navigate unfamiliar spaces more easily. Here’s why you might want to give it a try next time you check into a hotel.
1. Keeps Pests Away
Motels, especially those with outdoor entrances, can sometimes have issues with bugs or other pests. Keeping the bathroom light on can help deter critters like roaches from roaming around the room at night. While some insects are attracted to light, many pests prefer dark, hidden spaces. By illuminating the bathroom, you might keep them out of the main room, allowing you to sleep more peacefully.
However, it’s worth noting that, as one traveler pointed out, “Lights on do keep cockroaches away, but can attract other insects.” So, it’s a bit of a trade-off!
2. Guides Your Way in the Dark
In a hotel room you’re not familiar with, it’s easy to trip or stumble in the dark, especially if you need to get up in the middle of the night. Keeping the bathroom light on creates a dim, indirect glow that makes it easier to navigate without bumping into furniture or knocking things over.
This can be especially helpful for people who may need to find the bathroom or get a glass of water during the night. It’s also an important safety feature in case of an emergency—having a bit of light can make it easier to locate your exit quickly and safely.
One frequent solo traveler mentioned, “I want to make sure I can find my exit immediately in case of an emergency. It’s one of my self-protection protocols.”
3. Creates a Comfortable Ambience
For some, a pitch-black hotel room can feel unsettling, especially when staying alone. A soft glow from the bathroom light can help create a more comforting, relaxing atmosphere. It provides just enough light to ease your mind without being too bright or disruptive to your sleep.
A simple solution? Keep the bathroom door closed with the light on. One traveler suggested, “There’s enough light coming out from under the door to navigate a strange room.”
4. Acts as a Deterrent for Intruders
While it’s not a foolproof security measure, keeping the bathroom light on can act as a subtle deterrent for potential intruders. Lights in a hotel room can give the impression that someone is awake or present, which might make unwanted guests think twice about entering.
It’s a small step, but it adds an extra layer of peace of mind, especially for solo travelers or those staying in less secure areas.
In Conclusion: A Simple Trick for a Safer, More Comfortable Stay
Leaving the bathroom light on might seem like a small decision, but it’s a simple habit that can make a big difference in your comfort and safety when staying in an unfamiliar hotel room. So next time you check in, consider giving it a try for a smoother, more secure night’s sleep.
