Hotel irons are often used for more than just smoothing out wrinkles, and travellers are being warned to avoid using them
When it comes to packing for a holiday, no matter how meticulously we fold our clothes, they always seem creased on the other side of the journey. But before you reach for your hotel’s iron to smooth out those wrinkles, you might want to think twice as it may have been used in ways you’d never imagine.
In this era of viral TikTok hacks and unconventional uses for everyday appliances, the humble hotel iron has often found itself under scrutiny – and frequently for all the wrong reasons. Oddly enough, it’s not just being used for smoothing out wrinkles anymore.
TikTok content creators promoting alternative uses for regular household appliances are, in many instances, creating these ‘hack’ videos not at home, but in hotel rooms, reports the Express.
So when you’re stepping into a freshly-booked hotel room, you’ve no idea what the provided appliances might have been used for by previous guests.
However, clothing experts Stock have unveiled information about why you should steer clear of hotel irons.
Why should you avoid hotel irons?
Hotel irons get passed around by countless guests, and not everyone uses them solely for clothes.
Some guests have resorted to using them to heat food items like pizza and sandwiches, and one TikTok user even attempted cooking a steak with one.
A swift Google search also uncovers several travel blogs advocating for this hack. It’s a startling and cautionary revelation about the potential misuse of these appliances.
A travel website even suggested using an “ironing board as a hot plate” and the iron itself as a heat source.
Beyond their unintended culinary adventures, hotel irons pose several risks.
One Stock expert explained: “They may not always be as clean as you’d hope, potentially transferring residues from previous uses onto your clothes.
“Using them for non-ironing purposes can damage the appliance and leave unsavoury smells on your garments.
“Moreover, irons can be old and rusty, risking stains that are tough to remove.”
What to do instead
Stock offers the following unconventional yet practical alternatives to hotel irons.
Steam it out
Forget the iron in the wardrobe and harness the steam from your hotel bathroom. Suspend your garments near the shower and allow the steam to work its magic in releasing creases.
Quick steam with water
Fill a spray bottle with fresh water and lightly spritz your clothing. Your body heat will help dry them swiftly, naturally smoothing out wrinkles.
Inspect before you iron
Always examine the iron’s state before using it. Check for any visible grime or corrosion.
Test it on a concealed section of your garment to ensure it’s clean and won’t harm your outfit. If the iron leaves any unpleasant marks or odours, it’s best to steer clear of using it.