In the world of travel, especially for business professionals, there are several common habits that people take for granted. However, one often overlooked aspect is the condition of hotel linens. These sheets and towels might hold more than just a comfortable place to rest—they could carry hidden risks.
Gao Wenyue, a small entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the laundry industry, has developed a unique habit when traveling. He always brings his own towels and bedding, even when staying at hotels or visiting family. “I’ve been in this business for years, and I know some friends who run laundries in budget hotels. From what they told me, if the clothes look clean, they’re often not properly rinsed, dried, or ironed,†Gao explained to a reporter from *First Financial Daily*.
Industry insiders believe that the issue lies in the lack of oversight in the laundry sector and the financial pressures faced by hotels due to intense competition. Gao’s concerns reflect a broader problem: “Consumers are on top of the mountain, hotels are on the ground, and our laundry industry is underground.â€
Many travelers have experienced itchy skin after a night in a hotel. While people often blame their skin sensitivity or unfamiliar environments, the real cause might be the improperly washed sheets. A recent investigation by a private research group found that 33.3% of budget hotels in major cities had unqualified white levels, and 80% of their textiles had pH levels that were dangerously high. Out of 204 samples tested, 136 sheets had a pH above 8 (alkaline), while 170 bath towels and 153 pillowcases also exceeded the safe range. Surprisingly, 17 bath towels had a pH below 5, making them acidic.
Wang Chaoyi, head of the training school at Nikko Fine Group, explained that alkaline or chlorine-heavy linens can cause skin irritation. “During the early days of the Beijing Olympics, some guests at the New Century Nikko Hotel experienced itching. We were called in to test the pH level, which came out to 7.3—slightly alkaline but not extremely high,†he said.
Five-star hotels like Nikko typically change linens daily and undergo regular inspections by health authorities. In contrast, budget hotels often outsource their laundry needs. When contacted, representatives from economy hotel chains like Home Inn and Jinjiang Stars did not provide detailed responses on their cleaning procedures. This lack of transparency raises serious concerns about hygiene and safety for travelers.
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