It might look strange at first to see luggage in a bathtub, but there are actually several practical reasons why some guests do this.
First, hygiene and cleanliness are a big concern.
Hotel floors, even if vacuumed regularly, can still have dust, dirt, or tiny debris from previous guests.
Bathtubs, on the other hand, are smooth, non-porous surfaces that are easy to clean and generally much cleaner than carpeted or tiled floors.
For guests who are particularly careful about germs, placing their luggage in the tub ensures that their belongings stay clean and protected.
Another reason is pest prevention. Many travelers have heard of bedbugs or other insects that can hide in carpets, beds, or furniture.
By keeping luggage in the bathtub, they minimize the risk of bugs crawling into their suitcase, especially if they plan to pack clean clothes or personal items back in later.
For frequent travelers, this is a simple precaution to avoid bringing unwanted pests home.
Some guests are also concerned about moisture or spills.
Bathrooms often have waterproof floors, while other areas of the room—like near the window or air conditioner—can sometimes become damp.
Keeping luggage in the bathtub protects it from accidental spills, water from a leaking AC, or wet shoes and umbrellas.
Additionally, organization and space management play a role.
In small hotel rooms, a bathtub can serve as a contained area to unpack or repack luggage.
It gives guests a clear, flat surface to sort clothes, shoes, and other items without spreading everything across the bed or floor.
For families or people with multiple bags, this can make staying organized much easier.
Finally, it can simply be a personal habit or cultural practice.
Some travelers have always done this, perhaps starting from previous experiences in hotels where floors were dirty or where luggage placement in a tub was recommended for safety.
For them, it’s comforting and familiar—a way to feel in control of their environment.
Because of all these reasons, some guests can become quite defensive if hotel staff touch or move their luggage.
It’s not necessarily rudeness—they just want to protect their belongings and maintain their personal standards of cleanliness and safety.