When staying in a hotel, leaving the bathroom light on at night can be surprisingly helpful. This simple action can bring comfort and a sense of security, especially in unfamiliar surroundings. For some travelers, the soft glow from a bathroom light reduces anxiety, creating a warmer atmosphere in an otherwise unknown environment. In a dark and quiet hotel room, even a small light can provide reassurance, making it easier to relax and fall asleep.

Keeping the bathroom light on also proves beneficial in emergencies. If there’s a fire or security breach, the lit bathroom offers immediate visibility, helping you find your way to the exit without scrambling for a light switch or flashlight. It also assists with moving around the room at night, whether you’re getting up or dealing with an unexpected situation.

Another advantage is avoiding tripping over obstacles, such as suitcases or other belongings often left scattered during short hotel stays. Due to convenience or fatigue after a long journey, we tend to leave items unpacked, which can create hazards in the dark. A dim bathroom light minimizes the risk of stumbling over bags or other things on the floor.

Furthermore, a lit bathroom can subtly deter intruders by making it seem like someone is awake in the room. While this added layer of security might be minor, it can provide peace of mind.

However, not everyone finds the idea of leaving the bathroom light on appealing, especially with modern hotel designs. A Reddit user recently shared a photo of a hotel bathroom with a glass door, which caused the light to spill into the entire room at night. The user captioned the photo, “This hotel bathroom when you turn the bathroom light on at night,” pointing out how excessive brightness can interfere with rest.

The feedback was mixed. Some appreciated the extra illumination and visibility the bathroom light provided, while others found it disruptive. One commenter noted, “I stayed in a similar room recently… the bathroom light was motion-activated, so there was no way to avoid turning it on,” while another said, “As someone who can’t sleep with the bathroom light shining under the door, this would be a nightmare for me.”

Where do you stand? Do you prefer the comfort of a soft light at night, or are you someone who needs total darkness to sleep soundly? Regardless, finding the setup that works best for you can lead to a more restful and secure hotel experience.