Always Keep the Bathroom Light On When Sleeping in a Hotel

TalesApril 21, 2025

I remember my first solo stay at a hotel. It was a new city, new room, and new sounds—the works. As I got ready to turn in, I instinctively switched off every light, prepared for a night of complete darkness. It seemed logical—darkness and sleep go hand in hand, right? Yet, somehow, I found myself reaching for the light switch more than once that night, tempted to keep a small light on. Since then, I’ve picked up on why keeping the bathroom light on can be surprisingly useful in a hotel, even if it seems counterintuitive.

After years of traveling and a few late-night mishaps, I’ve come to realize there are valid reasons for this tip, and the occasional cons, too. Here’s a quick guide on why you might want to leave that bathroom light on in your hotel and what to consider before you flip the switch.

source: Pexels

Benefits of Keeping the Bathroom Light On in a Hotel

1. Avoiding the Nighttime Shuffle

Ever tried finding your way in a pitch-black room you’re unfamiliar with? It can be a real guessing game, one that might involve stumbling over luggage or jamming your toe into the bed frame. By leaving a light on in the bathroom, you create a soft glow that helps you navigate without fumbling around or risking minor injuries. It’s like setting up a subtle nightlight that gently guides you when you need it, so you can keep that painful toe-stubbing to a minimum.

2. Reducing Stress in New Places

Even if you’re someone who thrives in new settings, a little light can bring a sense of calm. Hotels can be busy places with sounds from hallways, elevators, and sometimes even the street below. When I have the bathroom light on, I find that it offers a low-level comfort. That soft glow gives a feeling of reassurance, especially if you’re alone or if you’re a light sleeper who’s easily startled by unexpected noises. It’s a small, quiet way to feel less alone in an unfamiliar room.

3. Adjusting to Different Time Zones

One of the unexpected perks of keeping the bathroom light on is how it can help with jet lag. When you’re jumping across time zones, a small, consistent light can be grounding, helping your body slowly adjust to its new day and night cycles. It’s like a gentle nudge to your internal clock, making those first few nights of sleep in a new place a little smoother.

4. Keeping Things Convenient for Kids or Friends

If you’re traveling with others—whether it’s family, friends, or a partner—a bit of bathroom light can make nighttime bathroom trips so much easier. Kids, in particular, can feel a little nervous in the dark, and the bathroom light gives them a quick guide without needing to wake up a parent. If you’re sharing a room with friends, it’s also convenient, helping everyone find their way without fumbling for light switches or waking each other up.

bathroom light on in a hotel room
source: Reddit5. An Extra Layer of Safety in Emergencies

It’s rare, but emergencies do happen, even in hotels. If there’s a need to evacuate quickly or if a fire alarm goes off, that bit of light can be handy. When seconds count, a little visibility can make a big difference, so having that soft light on is almost like a backup plan you didn’t realize you might need.

The Drawbacks of Leaving the Bathroom Light On

1. Might Disrupt Your Sleep Quality

Even though there are perks, keeping a light on isn’t for everyone. If you’re a sensitive sleeper, even a dim bathroom light might keep you from fully relaxing. Research shows that light exposure, even if it’s indirect, can suppress melatonin—the hormone that helps us sleep deeply. If you’ve ever struggled with getting back to sleep after waking up, that bathroom light might be more of a hindrance than a help.

2. Adds to Energy Usage

Hotels often promote eco-friendly habits, like reusing towels or minimizing electricity use, and that’s for a good reason. Leaving a light on all night does use a bit of extra energy. If you’re eco-conscious, you may feel a little guilty about keeping that light on, even if it’s just a small bathroom fixture.

source: Reddit3. Can Attract Bugs in Warmer Areas

In certain parts of the world, especially in warm or tropical climates, lights attract bugs. In some older hotels, insects can make their way inside through tiny gaps. While it’s rare in well-sealed hotel rooms, it’s something to think about if you’re in a place where bugs might find their way to a light source.

Making the Most of Bathroom Lighting in Hotels

If you’re like me and appreciate the idea of keeping the bathroom light on but want to avoid its drawbacks, here are some helpful tips.

bathroom light in a hotel
source: Flickr1. Bring a Nightlight

Instead of relying on the bathroom light, consider packing a small nightlight. They’re cheap and take up barely any space. Also they provide just the right amount of glow without the full brightness of a standard light. Plus, you can position it wherever you need it most.

2. Control the Light with the Bathroom Door

Adjust the bathroom door to control the amount of light that spills into the room. By leaving the door slightly ajar, you get a softer, diffused glow. This way, the light is helpful without being overpowering.

3. Use a Diffuser or Dimmer if Possible

If the bathroom light feels too bright, a quick hack is to place a hand towel over the door or even bring a mini dimmer if you have one. By reducing the brightness, you’ll create a cozy glow that won’t interfere with your sleep as much.

For me, keeping the bathroom light on in a hotel has become something of a habit. If you’re a light-sensitive sleeper, it’s all about finding a balance, like using a nightlight or adjusting the bathroom door. So next time you’re settling in for the night in a hotel room, consider giving it a try.

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