Why Keeping the Bathroom Light On in a Hotel Room is a Smart Move

Sleeping with lights on might not seem ideal, but when you’re in an unfamiliar hotel room, a little light can go a long way in ensuring safety and comfort. Keeping the bathroom light on during your stay may sound unusual, but it serves several practical purposes.

Keeps Pests at Bay
Hotels and motels, especially those with outdoor access, can sometimes face issues with bugs or other pests. A lit bathroom can act as a deterrent, drawing pests away from darker corners of the room where they typically hide.

As one Quora user noted, “Lights on do keep cockroaches away but can attract other insects.” Even so, the soft glow from the bathroom light could help you sleep easier knowing your room is less inviting for unwanted critters.

A Guiding Light
Navigating an unfamiliar space in the dark can be risky, especially if you need to get up at night. A dim light from the bathroom can create an indirect glow, helping you avoid tripping over furniture or bumping into walls.

This small habit is particularly useful for emergencies. If you need to evacuate quickly, the light provides immediate orientation, ensuring you’re not scrambling in complete darkness. As one frequent traveler explained:

“When I travel alone for work, I leave the bathroom light on to help me find my way in case of an emergency. It’s part of my self-protection protocol.”

Comfort in Unfamiliar Surroundings
Sleeping in a pitch-black, unfamiliar room can be unsettling for some. A faint glow from the bathroom creates a comforting ambiance, making the space feel less foreign. This is especially helpful for solo travelers or anyone who struggles to sleep in total darkness.

One traveler suggests leaving the bathroom light on but closing the door: “There’s just enough light coming from under the door to navigate a strange room without it being too bright.”

A Visual Deterrent for Intruders
Lights are often used as a security measure to create the impression of occupancy. In a hotel, a lit bathroom can make potential intruders think twice before attempting to enter, as it signals someone is awake and alert.

Conclusion
Keeping the bathroom light on while staying in a hotel might seem like a small detail, but it can significantly enhance your safety, comfort, and peace of mind. The added glow helps you navigate unfamiliar spaces, deters pests, and even provides a subtle sense of security.

Next time you check into a hotel or motel, consider this simple tip for a safer and more comfortable night’s sleep.