What are you supposed to do with room service dishes?

The Mystery of the Disappearing Dishes: Room Service Etiquette

You’ve indulged in a delicious room service meal, savoring every bite from the comfort of your hotel bed. Now, a new dilemma arises: what to do with the evidence? A collection of empty plates and used silverware suddenly occupies your previously pristine space. Fear not, the solution is simpler than you might think. Dealing with room service dishes is a seamless part of the hotel experience, designed for your convenience and a hassle-free stay.

You essentially have two straightforward options:

1. The In-Room Approach: Simply leave the dishes and trays neatly inside your room. There’s no need to meticulously arrange them or carry them to the hallway. Housekeeping staff are trained to efficiently collect and clear these items during their regular cleaning rounds. Placing them near the door or on a table makes their task even smoother, but isn’t strictly necessary.

2. The Discreet Doorway Deposit: If you prefer a more immediate removal, you can place the tray and dishes discreetly outside your room door. This signals to housekeeping that they can be collected promptly. However, be mindful of obstructing the hallway and ensure the placement doesn’t create a tripping hazard for other guests. Check your hotel’s specific policy, as some may discourage this practice for safety or aesthetic reasons.

Ultimately, the choice is yours. Both methods are perfectly acceptable and designed to ensure a clutter-free and enjoyable stay. The key is to avoid leaving food remnants exposed for extended periods, which could attract pests. Promptly alerting housekeeping to the presence of dirty dishes, either by leaving them inside or placing them discreetly outside, guarantees efficient removal and contributes to a hygienic environment for both yourself and other guests. So, relax, enjoy your room service, and leave the dish duty to the professionals.