When a guest checks in to a luxury hotel or resort property, one of the amenities is usually at least one pair of complimentary disposable slippers — but are disposable hotel slippers next to be banned?
Are Disposable Hotel Slippers Next to Be Banned?
Disposable slippers that are available at hotel and resort properties are typically constructed of fabric and plastic. They usually cannot be recycled, which is why they are the latest target in the name of sustainability.
Plastic cups, plastic straws, and single-use plastic bottles for toiletries have either been eliminated or banned in an increasing number of locations worldwide — but plastic straws can be replaced with paper straws or bamboo straws; and small plastic bottles can be replaced with toiletries that are wrapped in paper or bulk dispensers for use by multiple guests. We supposedly ingest enough plastic to eat one credit card per week.
Replacing slippers that are considered to be environmentally unfriendly is not easy to do — although the following initiatives are possible, with some of them already in use:
- Construct slippers out of materials that are more environmentally friendly so that they can be recycled
- Encourage guests to take disposable slippers home to continue to use them
- Have the slippers available to guests only if they specifically request them
- Create slippers that are of better construction and quality with materials that are more durable and comfortable so that they are not as disposable; and encourage guests to take the slippers home to continue to use them
- Discontinue offering disposable slippers altogether
That each pair of disposable slippers is usually wrapped in plastic does not help matters in terms of the environment — but pairs of slippers have been known to be wrapped in their own cloth bags that sometimes include a handy drawstring.
Final Boarding Call
I like disposable slippers; but I do not dispose of them unless they cannot be used anymore. I reuse them because:
- The floors of rooms at hotel and resort properties are usually not very clean
- Unlike “reusable” slippers, they take up very little space in my bag — which is important to a person who packs as little as possible in order to avoid checking luggage
- They are easier to slip on than socks and most shoes — especially during the night or at a swimming pool
- Sand can be cleaned out of them easier when at a beach
Slippers are one of a number of items and services which differentiate an upscale lodging option from the rest. Some hotel and resort properties also use them for branding purposes.
Some people use sandals or “flip-flops” for similar purposes. I do not care for either of them. I prefer wearing sneakers when I am out and about; and the disposable slippers for when I am in the room for the night at a hotel or resort property.
Do you believe that disposable slippers should be banned for environmental reasons?
Photograph ©2024 by Brian Cohen.
