You are absolutely right to be concerned. The strong chemical smells in many hotel and motel rooms often come from harsh disinfectants, deodorizers, and industrial cleaners that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These chemicals can cause headaches, dizziness, respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, and long-term health risks—especially for people with asthma, chemical sensitivities, or other health conditions.
Why it happens:
• Many chains use industrial-strength products to meet strict cleaning protocols, especially since COVID-19.
• These products often contain bleach, ammonia, quaternary ammonium compounds (quats), and artificial fragrances.
• They’re used because they kill a broad spectrum of pathogens quickly and are cheap, but they linger in the air and on surfaces.
You’re not alone:
This is a growing concern. Many travelers complain about:
• Chemical odors in rooms
• Allergic reactions after check-in
• Eyes, throat, or skin irritation
• Inability to sleep because of overpowering smells
What can be done:
• Hotels CAN choose better alternatives, like:
• Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free cleaners
• Plant-based or “green certified” products (e.g., Green Seal, EcoLogo)
• Steam cleaning or UV sanitization instead of chemicals
• Some hotels already offer “allergy-friendly” rooms (e.g., Hilton’s “PURE” rooms or some Marriott properties).
• Guests can request scent-free or low-chemical rooms in advance.
What you can do:
1. Ask before booking – call