Hotel expert reveals the big mistake guests always make with towels in their rooms – and which could get you in trouble

An etiquette expert reveals what hotel guests can do to save the staff extra work.

Daily room cleaning is the luxury that comes with a hotel stay, but the hard work of the hotel staff should not be taken for granted.

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Etiquette experts Myka Meier and Dianne Gottsman told Travel + Leisure how hotel guests can help.

“Never leave wet towels on the carpet or furniture, as they could damage the wood or fabric and leave wet spots (or mold) on the carpet that may not dry in time for the next guest,” explains Meier.

Instead, she recommends hanging up used towels or leaving them “neatly stacked in the bathroom.”

Another way to avoid stains is to avoid using your dressing gown as a tissue or makeup wipe.

Gottsman explains that some stains are washable but difficult to remove.

Accidents can happen, but if an accident involves a sharp object like broken glass, picking up as many pieces as possible will help employees and prevent injuries. However, Gottsman recommends that doing so helps keep employees safer.

In addition, all garbage can be thrown into the garbage cans provided.

Leaving your belongings in the designated areas is another great way to help the staff clean up around your belongings.

Gottsman advises leaving dirty towels in a corner, shoes together in a corner, and clothes in the suitcase.

However, the bed does not have to be made when guests check out.

“The bed is stripped immediately, so you don’t have to worry about making the bed,” says Meier.

You can also make life a little easier for the hotel staff by calling them when you have finished washing up from room service.

Leaving them outside your room may create a trip hazard or cause an unpleasant smell.

Ultimately, it makes a huge difference to the hotel staff if all appliances and furniture are returned to where you found them.