Staying at hotels has become a standard part of travel, whether for business or leisure. While most of us are familiar with doing a quick room inspection upon arrival—checking for cleanliness, supplies, and the absence of any suspicious devices—there’s one safety trick you might not know about: tossing a water bottle under the bed. It may sound odd, but this simple action can enhance your sense of security in a new place. Let’s break down why this tip could be a game-changer during your next hotel stay.
Ensuring Safety: The Importance of Checking Under the Bed
When you first step into a hotel room, your instinct is usually to check the essentials: clean sheets, working appliances, stocked toiletries, and perhaps even look for hidden cameras. But have you ever thought about checking under the bed? This often-overlooked space can conceal unexpected surprises, ranging from lost items to uninvited guests.
The Hidden Risks Beneath the Bed
Hotels vary greatly in terms of security and cleanliness. While most hotels prioritize guest safety, stories about unpleasant discoveries—like someone hiding under the bed—are not unheard of. It’s rare, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. This is why checking under the bed should be part of your safety routine.
Why Toss a Water Bottle Under the Bed?
Throwing a water bottle under the bed is a clever and effective way to detect any issues without putting yourself in harm’s way. This technique was popularized by Esther, an experienced flight attendant with KLM airlines. As someone who travels frequently and stays in different hotels, she uses this tactic as a precautionary measure to ensure her room is safe.
How the Water Bottle Trick Works
Here’s how you can perform this safety check:
- Stand near the edge of the bed: After entering your room and locking the door behind you, grab a water bottle.
- Toss the bottle under the bed: Aim to throw the bottle from one side of the bed to the other. Use enough force to ensure it travels across the floor beneath the bed.
- Observe the bottle’s movement: If the bottle rolls freely from one side to the other, there’s likely nothing blocking its path. However, if it stops abruptly or doesn’t roll as expected, it could mean something—or someone—is under the bed.
Why This Method Works
The water bottle trick is effective for multiple reasons:
1. It Keeps You at a Safe Distance
Checking under the bed by bending down puts you in a vulnerable position. If there were an unexpected situation, you’d be caught off guard. Tossing a bottle instead allows you to maintain a safe distance while detecting any potential risks. It gives you time to react quickly if needed.
2. It’s Quick and Discreet
Unlike a thorough inspection that requires bending or crouching, this method is quick and discreet. You can perform it without drawing too much attention to yourself, making it particularly useful when staying alone or in an unfamiliar location.
3. It’s an Easy Way to Detect Movement
A bottle rolling smoothly indicates that there’s likely nothing under the bed, but if it gets stuck or rolls back unusually, you might want to take a closer look—or call hotel staff for assistance. This small test can help reveal if something is off, without the need for a flashlight or a closer inspection.
Additional Benefits of Checking Under the Bed
While safety is the primary reason to toss a water bottle under the bed, there are other benefits to this method as well.
1. Assessing Room Cleanliness
Throwing a bottle under the bed can also serve as a quick cleanliness check. If the bottle comes back covered in dust, debris, or even a stray piece of trash, it’s a sign that the housekeeping may not have done a thorough job. This simple test can indicate whether the room is up to standard or if you need to request a cleaning.
2. Avoiding Hidden Hazards
Some hotels may overlook deep cleaning under the bed, which can lead to dust accumulation or even pests. By tossing the bottle, you’ll get a better sense of how well-maintained the room is. If you find dirt, trash, or even signs of pests, it’s a good opportunity to ask for a room change.
How to React if Something Seems Off
If the bottle doesn’t roll out smoothly or you hear unusual sounds from under the bed, you need to act swiftly.
1. Stay Calm and Back Away
If you suspect something is wrong, don’t try to check under the bed yourself. Back away from the bed and position yourself near the door. This keeps you in a better position to exit the room if necessary.
2. Call Hotel Security
Once you’ve backed away safely, call hotel security or the front desk and explain your concerns. Let them know you’d like a thorough room inspection. Professional staff are trained to handle unexpected situations and will ensure your safety.
3. Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off in your room—even beyond what’s under the bed—trust your instincts. It’s always better to be cautious than to regret not taking action.
The Reality of Hotel Safety
While most hotels are safe and well-maintained, it’s essential to prioritize your safety during any stay. You never know what you might encounter, especially in large, busy hotels or motels with less attentive management.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
Being aware of your surroundings, checking for unusual devices, and securing your belongings are all standard precautions. Adding the water bottle trick to your safety checklist can further reduce the risk of unexpected surprises.
Conclusion: Why Safety Measures Matter in Hotels
When you check into a hotel, you expect a safe and comfortable experience. The water bottle trick is a simple, effective way to enhance your personal safety without any extra effort. It’s a clever way to check for potential threats, assess room cleanliness, and avoid unexpected surprises—all without putting yourself at risk. So, next time you check into a hotel, don’t forget to toss a water bottle under the bed. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in your peace of mind
