When staying in a hotel or guesthouse, something as simple as leaving the bathroom light on while you sleep can make a big difference. From seasoned travelers to experienced hotel staff, experts agree that this small habit has surprising benefits, ranging from enhancing your comfort to potentially saving your life in emergencies. Here’s why this advice is worth following.
1. Be Prepared for Emergencies
Emergencies are unpredictable, and being in an unfamiliar environment can make them even more daunting. Keeping the bathroom light on provides a crucial point of illumination in case of incidents like earthquakes, fires, or even intruders.
In a state of panic, navigating through complete darkness to find your phone, flashlight, or the light switch can waste precious time. A lit bathroom serves as a beacon, making it easier to locate the exit quickly and calmly. While no one wants to think about worst-case scenarios, a little preparation can make a world of difference.
2. Ease Fear and Anxiety
Traveling can be exciting, but sleeping in unfamiliar surroundings often feels unsettling. A dim bathroom light can create a calming atmosphere, soothing any anxiety you might have about the new environment.
Unlike a glaring bedside lamp, the bathroom light offers a soft glow that helps you feel safe without disrupting your sleep. It’s a simple way to make your hotel room feel more like home and prevent those middle-of-the-night startles that leave you feeling disoriented.
3. Support Better Sleep
Some people struggle to sleep in complete darkness, but traditional nightlights can feel too bright or intrusive. A bathroom light strikes the perfect balance, providing just enough illumination to help you relax without interfering with your sleep quality.
Additionally, if you wake up in the middle of the night, a lit bathroom saves you from fumbling in the dark to find your phone or the light switch. This convenience allows you to return to sleep more easily without fully waking yourself—or your travel companions.
4. Enhance Nighttime Safety
If you’re staying in a hotel alone, nighttime safety is paramount. A light in the bathroom can act as a deterrent to anyone with bad intentions. Seeing the light might give the impression that you’re awake and alert, discouraging potential intruders from attempting to enter your room.
5. Prevent Accidents in an Unfamiliar Space
Hotel rooms are rarely set up like your home, and it’s easy to bump into furniture or trip over your luggage in the dark. Leaving the bathroom light on helps you navigate the space safely, reducing the risk of injuries.
This is especially helpful if you need to get up for water, extra blankets, or a midnight trip to the bathroom. A small amount of light can save you from stubbing your toe or falling over an open suitcase.
A Small Habit With Big Benefits
While it may seem trivial, leaving the bathroom light on while staying in a hotel offers a host of benefits, from ensuring your safety in emergencies to helping you feel more comfortable and secure. This simple trick can make your stay more enjoyable and potentially life-saving in unexpected situations
