Hotel workers share 11 ‘polite’ habits from guests which they secretly hate

11 “Polite” Habits Hotel Workers Secretly Dislike

When checking into a hotel, most of us want to be the kind of guest staff remember fondly. That often means going out of our way to be polite—apologizing for small requests, whispering in hallways, or tidying the room before housekeeping arrives. But here’s the twist: many of these habits, though well-meaning, actually make hotel workers’ jobs harder or create awkward situations. Reader’s Digest asked hotel staff which habits from guests they scretly hated and these were some of their responses.

Here are 11 “polite” gestures that hotel staff secretly dislike—and what you can do instead to genuinely make their day better.

1. Saying “Sorry to Bother You” for Basic Requests

It might feel polite to apologize when asking for more towels, extra pillows, or a late checkout. But over-apologizing for routine needs can make the interaction unnecessarily uncomfortable. Staff expect these requests—it’s part of their role. Instead, simply ask with a smile: “Could I please have another towel?” No apology required.

2. Cleaning Up Before Housekeeping

Many guests assume they’re being considerate by making the bed or tidying the bathroom before housekeeping comes in. The reality? Staff often have to undo those efforts to meet the hotel’s cleaning standards, which takes more time. A better way to show respect is by leaving the space reasonably neat and offering a thank-you note or tip.

3. Whispering in the Hallways

Trying to be quiet when you return late at night is thoughtful—but whispering actually carries more and can sound unsettling to other guests or staff. Instead, keep your voice at a normal, soft tone and walk calmly to your room without lingering.

4. Tipping Only at Checkout

It may seem easier to leave one generous tip when you check out, but it often doesn’t get evenly distributed to everyone who helped you. Housekeepers rotate shifts, and the person who brought you extra blankets might not be on duty the day you leave. Offering smaller tips throughout your stay ensures gratitude reaches the right people in real time.

5. Offering Food or Drinks as Thanks

Guests sometimes leave behind opened snacks, leftover wine, or homemade goodies for staff. While thoughtful, health and safety regulations usually prevent employees from accepting them. A more meaningful gesture? Leaving a positive online review and naming staff who went above and beyond. That can directly benefit their careers.

6. Insisting on Helping with Heavy Luggage

If you’ve ever tried to grab a suitcase to “lighten the load,” you’re not alone. Many travelers think lending a hand to bellhops is considerate. But lifting heavy items can raise liability issues if either party gets hurt. The best courtesy is stepping aside and letting the professionals handle it—they’re trained for it.

7. Holding the Elevator for Staff

Some guests think they’re being gracious by holding the elevator doors open for employees with carts or linens. In practice, it can slow workers down. Housekeeping and maintenance often operate on tight schedules, and catching the next elevator is usually more efficient for them. A polite smile as you head to your floor is more than enough.

8. Hovering While Housekeeping Works

Peeking in while housekeeping is mid-clean—or worse, staying in the room while they work—can make staff feel rushed or uncomfortable. It’s much easier for them to clean efficiently when no one is watching. If you cross paths, a simple “I’ll come back later, thank you” goes a long way.

9. Giving Gifts Instead of Feedback

Small trinkets, chocolates, or souvenirs might seem like sweet tokens of appreciation, but many hotels forbid staff from accepting personal gifts. What’s universally welcomed, though, is feedback. Mentioning someone by name in a positive review not only lifts morale but can help them professionally.

10. Walking Around the Lobby in Wet Shoes or Slippers

It feels considerate not to track water into your room after swimming or walking in the rain—but lingering in public areas with wet footwear creates slip hazards. Instead, ask the front desk for an extra towel or mat so you can dry off before heading upstairs.

11. Overloading Requests with “Please” and “Thank You”

Politeness matters, but repeating “please” and “thank you” multiple times in the same sentence can come across as insincere or overdone. A warm tone and a single, genuine “thank you” makes staff feel appreciated without being awkward.

The Big Picture

As one hotel worker put it, “Sometimes good intentions go awry, especially when traveling.” The most valuable form of courtesy isn’t about overcompensating—it’s about being respectful, patient, and recognizing staff as professionals.

When in doubt, skip the exaggerated gestures and focus on kindness that counts: say thank you, leave fair tips, and respect the work hotel employees do behind the scenes to make your stay comfortable.