July 30, 2025 — Whether you're a seasoned traveler or heading out on your first international trip, one small detail might make a big difference during your hotel stay: keeping the bathroom light on overnight.

For many guests, especially those uneasy in unfamiliar environments, a dim-lit bathroom can be a source of comfort and security. The soft glow helps reduce anxiety for travelers who find it difficult to sleep in new surroundings.

🚨 A Simple Trick with Safety Benefits

Beyond comfort, there are practical reasons to keep the light on. In case of an emergency—such as a fire or a break-in—having some visibility in the room allows guests to quickly locate exits or essential items without fumbling in the dark for a flashlight or their phone.

Additionally, for those staying only a night or two, it’s common to leave suitcases and personal belongings on the floor. A dim bathroom light can help prevent tripping over bags or scattered items during late-night trips to the restroom.

🛑 A Signal to Intruders

There’s also a psychological advantage: a lit bathroom may deter potential intruders. A softly lit room suggests that someone is awake inside, which can make a would-be trespasser think twice.

🛏️ Not for Everyone: The Hotel Glass Door Debate

Still, not everyone appreciates a lit bathroom during the night—especially when hotel design choices come into play. One Reddit user recently shared a photo from his hotel room, showing a glass bathroom door that flooded the room with light when switched on.

He captioned it: “This hotel bathroom when you turn the bathroom light on at night.”

The post sparked a lively debate. While some users praised the brightness, calling it a useful feature, others were less enthusiastic.

“I spent the night in a similar one recently… the bathroom light was motion-activated, so there was no way to avoid turning it on too,” one commenter shared.
Another replied, “As someone who can’t sleep with any light leaking under the door, this would be a nightmare for me.”

💤 Light or No Light: It’s Up to You

Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference. Some travelers swear by total darkness, while others feel more at ease with a nightlight or dim bathroom glow.

So, what about you? Do you sleep better in pitch-black silence—or do you leave the light on, just in case?