Let’s be honest: you’ve probably slipped that mini shampoo bottle into your toiletry bag at least once. Maybe even grabbed a couple of the complimentary tea bags or instant coffee sachets from the hospitality tray before checking out. If so, you’re not alone.

Taking complimentary hotel room items—particularly bathroom products and coffee or tea—is an oddly satisfying little ritual for many travelers. But how common is it? And is it actually okay?

So, How Many People Do It?

While exact statistics vary, surveys and travel studies consistently show that over 65–75% of hotel guests admit to taking small, complimentary items from hotel rooms—especially toiletries and consumables like tea and coffee.

A survey conducted by Hotels.com found that:

77% of travelers said they take bathroom products like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion.

65% admitted to taking coffee and tea supplies.

Items like slippers, sewing kits, and notepads were also popular “souvenirs.”

Notably, most guests differentiate between what's complimentary and what’s stealing. For example, people are much less likely to take items like bathrobes, towels, or hairdryers (because those aren't free—and often come with a charge if they go missing).

Why Do People Take These Items?

There are a few reasons why people enjoy taking these small hotel perks:

They’re technically free. These items are part of the room rate, and hotels expect you to use them or take them.

They’re convenient. Travel-sized toiletries are perfect for carry-ons or gym bags.

They feel like souvenirs. Guests often associate a brand-name hotel’s toiletries with luxury or a fond trip memory.

Sustainability play. Some travelers argue they’re actually saving waste, especially if the hotel disposes of opened toiletries between guests.

Is It Considered Rude or Stealing?

In most cases, no. Taking consumables like:

Shampoo, conditioner, lotion

Soaps

Tea and coffee

Sugar and creamer

Disposable slippers

…is perfectly acceptable and expected.

However, taking non-consumable or higher-value items (like robes, irons, or artwork) is not okay—and hotels may charge your card for them after checkout.

Hotels Know—and They’re Fine With It (Mostly)

Hotels budget for these amenities and treat them as part of the guest experience. In fact, some even see it as free marketing: when you use their branded lotion at home, it reminds you of your stay, possibly leading to repeat bookings.

Some high-end hotels go a step further and sell full-size versions of their in-room products, encouraging guests to take a sample and buy more if they love it.

Conclusion: Take the Shampoo, Not the Towels

So, next time you’re checking out of a hotel and wondering whether it’s okay to snag that little bottle of body wash or a couple of herbal tea bags—go for it. It’s one of the few travel perks where you can indulge guilt-free.

Just maybe leave the bathrobe behind.