Hey Lykkers! Have you ever wondered why we keep hotel toiletries? Have you ever found yourself collecting those tiny bottles of shampoo, soap, or lotion from hotel rooms?

It might seem like a small, insignificant habit, but it’s actually more common and psychologically significant than you might think. Whether you use them or just stash them away, there’s a deeper reason behind why we keep those hotel toiletries.

The Thrill of Freebies

First, let’s talk about the irresistible appeal of “free stuff.” Many people grab hotel toiletries because they feel they’re getting something for nothing.

According to a SurveyMonkey study, 43% of respondents admitted to taking home products like shampoo or soap simply because they felt it was “free,” or included in the price they already paid. There’s something satisfying about feeling like you’re getting added value, especially when we’ve already paid for the room.

This is a psychological trigger known as “loss aversion,” where we feel compelled to take something that seems like a bonus. It's an easy way to boost our sense of getting a deal.

Nostalgia and Souvenirs: Keeping Memories Alive

But there's more to it than just the free aspect. Hotel toiletries often carry sentimental value. When you think about it, those tiny bottles are attached to memories.

Maybe you stayed in a cozy boutique hotel on a special trip, or a luxurious resort that felt like a dream. Keeping those toiletries is like holding onto a small piece of the experience. 27% of people keep hotel items as souvenirs, a reminder of the places they’ve visited or experiences they’ve had. These little products act as tokens of the good times, so it makes sense to take them home and preserve that feeling.

Symbolic Ownership and Emotional Connection

On a deeper level, keeping hotel products can be tied to symbolic ownership. Despite their small size, hotel toiletries become more than just items—they carry emotional weight. Psychologists believe that these products provide comfort, relaxation, and sometimes even luxury, things that may feel special during a stay at a hotel. Taking these items home helps extend that feeling of indulgence and well-being. The small shampoo bottle may not seem like much, but it can serve as a reminder of a time when you felt pampered or at ease.

Practicality: A Handy Future Resource

Let’s face it—those mini toiletries are often practical. Many travelers take them because they’re useful for future trips. They’re the perfect size for travel, and having a backup stash of shampoo or lotion can save you from buying new products at your destination. Plus, they’re easy to throw in your bag without taking up too much space.

Now, Lykkers, do you keep your hotel goodies or leave them behind? Let us know in the comments!