Why do hotel guests put a towel under their door?

Placing a towel under the door in a hotel room is a common practice that some guests use as a DIY method to block out light or noise from the hallway. Here are a few reasons why hotel guests might put a towel under their door:

1. Light Blocker: Sometimes the gap under the door can allow light from the hallway to seep into the room, especially if the hallway lights are left on all night. By placing a towel at the bottom of the door, guests can create a makeshift light blocker to make the room darker for sleeping.
2. Noise Reduction: Similarly, the gap under the door can also allow noise from the hallway to filter into the room. Placing a towel can help reduce the amount of noise that enters the room, providing a quieter and more peaceful environment for the guest.
3. Privacy: Some guests may use a towel under the door as an additional measure to enhance their privacy. While most hotel room doors have a peephole and a locking mechanism, the towel can provide an added sense of security and privacy.
4. Draft Blocker: In some cases, guests may feel a draft coming in from under the door, especially if the weather is cold outside or the room is too air-conditioned. Placing a towel at the base of the door can help block drafts and maintain a more comfortable room temperature.

While placing a towel under the door can offer some benefits, it’s important to note that it is not a foolproof method for blocking out light, noise, or drafts. Hotels are designed to provide a certain level of comfort and privacy, and if guests have specific concerns about these issues, they can always reach out to the hotel staff for assistance or request a room change.