Hotel towel damage can lead to unexpected charges and hassles during your stay – this guide explains common fees and prevention strategies.
Common Hotel Towel Damage Fees
- Makeup stains: $10-25 per towel
- Hair dye stains: $15-30 per towel
- Tears or holes: $20-40 per towel
- Missing towels: $25-50 per towel
- Blood stains: $15-35 per towel
Prevention Tips
Pack makeup remover wipes or special makeup removal towels for cosmetics.
Bring dark-colored washcloths for removing makeup or hair dye.
Use the designated makeup washcloths many hotels now provide (usually dark colored).
Check towels for existing damage at check-in and report issues immediately.
What To Do If Damage Occurs
- Report damage to hotel staff promptly
- Take photos of damaged items
- Request an itemized bill for damages
- Keep all documentation if disputing charges
Your Rights as a Guest
Hotels must provide clear policies about towel damages and associated fees.
You can dispute unreasonable charges through your credit card company.
Request to see the hotel’s written policy on damaged linens.
Quick Tips for Avoiding Charges
- Use Protection: Place towels under hair dye bottles or makeup
- Separate Uses: Keep face towels separate from body towels
- Check First: Inspect towels before use
- Document: Take photos of any existing damage at check-in
Contact Information for Major Hotel Chains
| Hotel Chain | Customer Service |
|---|---|
| Marriott | 1-800-721-7033 |
| Hilton | 1-800-445-8667 |
| Hyatt | 1-800-233-1234 |
Hotels typically assess damage charges within 24-48 hours after checkout.
Most hotels will work with guests to resolve damage issues fairly when approached professionally.
Special Considerations
Extended Stays
Request additional towel sets for longer stays to reduce wear and tear. Many hotels offer complimentary towel exchanges every 2-3 days.
Business Travel
Keep receipts for damaged towel charges as they may be reimbursable business expenses. Document all incidents in detail.
Insurance Coverage
- Travel insurance may cover accidental damage to hotel property
- Some credit cards provide coverage for hotel incidents
- Business travel insurance often includes property damage protection
Alternative Solutions
Consider bringing your own towels for:
- Gym workouts
- Pool activities
- Beach visits
- Makeup removal
Understanding Hotel Policies
Different hotel categories have varying policies:
| Hotel Type | Typical Policy Strictness |
|---|---|
| Luxury Hotels | Very strict |
| Mid-Range Hotels | Moderate |
| Budget Hotels | More lenient |
Conclusion
Preventing towel damage is easier and more cost-effective than dealing with charges after the fact. Always inspect towels upon arrival, use appropriate protection for potentially damaging activities, and maintain clear communication with hotel staff if incidents occur.
Keep documentation of all interactions and know your rights as a guest. Most situations can be resolved amicably with proper preparation and professional communication.
FAQs
- What are the typical fees charged for damaged hotel towels?
Hotels generally charge between $20-50 per damaged towel, depending on the quality and brand. Luxury hotels may charge up to $100 per towel for high-end linens. - How do hotels determine if a towel is damaged beyond normal wear and tear?
Hotels look for permanent stains, tears, burns, holes, or discoloration that cannot be removed through standard washing procedures. - Can I be charged for makeup stains on hotel towels?
Yes, hotels typically charge for towels with permanent makeup stains, especially those from self-tanning products, mascara, or foundation that don’t wash out. - What are the best practices to prevent towel damage in hotels?
Use makeup removers before washing face, avoid using towels to clean shoes, remove makeup, or wipe up spills, and keep towels away from hot styling tools. - Do hotels charge for missing towels?
Yes, hotels will charge for missing towels, often at the same rate as damaged towels, and may automatically charge the credit card on file. - How should I handle a bleach stain on a hotel towel?
Report the incident immediately to hotel management, document the damage, and be prepared to pay the replacement fee as bleach damage is considered permanent. - Are guests charged for normal discoloration of white towels?
No, hotels typically don’t charge for normal discoloration or slight yellowing that occurs through regular use and washing. - What should I do if I accidentally damage a hotel towel?
Report the damage to the front desk immediately, document the incident, and discuss potential charges to avoid unexpected fees on your bill. - Can I dispute a towel damage charge on my hotel bill?
Yes, you can dispute charges, but you’ll need evidence that the damage was pre-existing or falls under normal wear and tear. - Do hotels usually inspect towels before checkout?
Yes, housekeeping staff typically inspects all towels during room cleaning after checkout before processing them for laundry.
