When you’re traveling for work or going on vacation, booking a hotel or motel room is usually part of the plan. After a long journey, most people are ready to drop their bags, lie down, and relax without giving much thought to their surroundings. It’s easy to assume that the room is clean, safe, and private—but that’s not always the case. In fact, being too quick to settle in can sometimes lead to uncomfortable or even risky situations. That’s why it’s a smart idea to do a quick check of the room right after checking in.
There are a few warning signs that could mean your room isn’t as secure or clean as it should be. If you notice any of the following three things, it might be best to gather your belongings and check out immediately. First, inspect all the mirrors in the room carefully. While most hotel mirrors are ordinary and harmless, there have been disturbing cases of two-way mirrors being installed in guest rooms. A two-way mirror allows someone on the other side of the wall to watch what’s happening inside the room, or even record video without your knowledge. Though not very common, the risk is serious enough to take precautions. You can do a simple test by placing your finger against the glass.
If there’s a visible gap between your fingertip and its reflection, it’s probably a regular mirror. But if your fingertip touches the reflection directly with no space, that could be a sign the mirror is two-way. Also, pay attention to how the mirror is mounted—mirrors that are flush with the wall and don’t have a visible frame might be more suspicious. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to ask for a different room or speak with the manager. Next, hidden cameras are another major concern. While hotel owners are not supposed to place cameras in guest rooms, bad actors sometimes find ways to sneak surveillance devices into private spaces. In some cases, these devices are installed by guests who previously stayed in the room, or by individuals with malicious intent. Hidden cameras can be disguised as common objects—alarm clocks, power outlets, light bulbs, even pens. They’re easy to find online and can be tiny enough to escape a casual glance. That’s why it’s important to stay alert and examine your room closely.
Look for items that seem oddly placed or point directly at the bed, bathroom, or dressing area. Turn off the lights and use your phone’s flashlight to scan for reflections from camera lenses—these will often shine back at you, even in low light. If you suspect there’s a hidden camera, leave the room immediately and report it to hotel staff and, if necessary, the local authorities.
Lastly, pay close attention to the room’s cleanliness, especially in the bathroom. Faucets and showerheads are often overlooked when it comes to routine cleaning, but they can give you a clear idea of the room’s overall hygiene standards. If you notice visible grime, rust, or buildup on the faucets, or if the showerhead looks like it hasn’t been cleaned in a long time, that’s a red flag. You can go a step further and unscrew the showerhead to check inside—if you find hair, mold, or debris in the hose, it’s best not to use it. A dirty bathroom not only shows a lack of attention from housekeeping but could also pose health risks. In such cases, contact the front desk, explain the situation, and ask for either a cleaner room or a full room change. Your comfort and well-being should always be a top priority. In summary, don’t rush to unpack and relax the moment you step into a hotel or motel room. Taking just a few minutes to check for a two-way mirror, hidden cameras, and signs of poor hygiene can help you avoid an unpleasant or even dangerous experience. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and act accordingly. Better safe than sorry when it comes to your safety and peace of mind.
