Open the door to your room with your elbow, eliminating the need to come into contact with this high touch point surface. If you must touch the door knob, sanitize or wash your hands (at least 20 seconds) thoroughly upon entering the room.

Put your bags down on top of the luggage rack and place the rack near the bathroom. Avoid throwing your paraphernalia on the bed or chairs too.

Check the mattress and the headboard, analyzing each up close for movement and specks that look like dirt, flax seeds, or a sprinkling of pepper flakes.

Wash your hands then scan the bathroom for obvious cleaning misses – check the toilet and shower or bathtub for any obvious signs of stains or mildew. Place all toiletries on the counter on top of a hand towel or tissue.

Bring alcohol-based wipes to spot-clean areas that tend to be missed: light switches, door handles, remote controls, and phones. Some hotels have started placing television remotes in clear plastic bags that are changed between guests. We also like to keep a bottle of hand sanitizer on the bedside table or dresser so that we can easily access it.

Only trust the bed’s comforter if it has been wrapped in two sheets; this usually indicates the duvet’s cover is replaced with every new guest. If you suspect the cover has not been washed, pull the sheets up high and don’t let it near you. Even better, place it on the floor. 

Bring your own washable slippers to wear on the carpets and floors. Wrap them in a shower cap for the journey home and wash for the next use. Maybe even consider bringing a pair of cheap flip-flops from the dollar store that you can throw away before the end of your stay.

Want to enjoy a glass of mini-bar wine or drink out of the water tumbler in the bathroom? Pre-wash the glass with soap and hot water. Some hotels also provide disposable cups wrapped in plastic.

Finally, if you feel your room’s sanitary state is in bad shape, trust your senses and ask to be moved.