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$16.99 (as of September 15, 2024 12:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Have you ever touched down in Europe and felt the tingle of excitement as you step into your hotel room? The quaint charm, the European elegance, everything is perfect until you hit the bathroom and ask yourself: Where on earth is that washcloth? According to travel guru Rick Steves, this little item—absolutely essential in many people’s shower routines—often goes missing in European hotel bathrooms.
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The Bathroom Essential You Might Miss
It turns out, the absence of washcloths, those small, handy towels that help scrub away the grime, is a common surprise for many travelers. You can find large bath towels in nearly every hotel room, but those tiny squares of fabric are usually nowhere to be seen.
The European Towel Culture
In Europe, the culture surrounding bathroom towels is a bit different from what you might expect. Large bath towels for drying off? Absolutely, without a doubt. But washcloths? Not so much. Rick Steves has shared that these small towels are a rarity in European hotel bathrooms.
But here’s the kicker: if you do happen to stumble upon a small towel, it likely serves a very particular purpose. For example, those tiny towels near a bidet? Not meant for your face or body, unless you’ve got some pretty adventurous hygiene practices!
Why Don’t Hotels in Europe Provide Washcloths?
So, why is it that hotels in Europe often forgo providing washcloths? It boils down to a mix of cultural habits and personal hygiene preferences.
Different Showering Habits
In many European countries, people have different habits when it comes to showering. Instead of washcloths, many Europeans prefer using sponges, brushes, mittens, or even just their hands for lathering up with soap.
Personal Items
To many Europeans, a washcloth is considered highly personal—much like your toothbrush or underwear. Just as you wouldn’t borrow a stranger’s toothbrush, a shared washcloth doesn’t make the cut either. Europeans often bring their own washcloths if they use them, ensuring they have one suited to their personal preferences.
Preferences in Towel Texture
Personal preferences vary widely when it comes to the texture and size of towels. Some people like them soft and fluffy, others prefer them thin and coarse. This individualized preference means hotels avoid the risk of supplying a washcloth that won’t meet everyone’s needs.
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Tips for Packing Your Own Travel Washcloth
Alright, so the hotel isn’t going to supply a washcloth. No biggie—you can totally handle that. Rick Steves has some savvy suggestions for those who can’t imagine their cleaning routine without this bathroom staple.
Quick-Drying Washcloths
One of the main pitfalls of traveling with a washcloth is dealing with a damp, potentially mildew-ridden rag. No one wants their suitcase smelling like a damp basement. Opt for quick-drying options made from materials like microfiber, polyester, nylon, or polyamide. These materials dry quickly and won’t harbor that yucky wet-rag smell.
Make Use of Heated Towel Racks
One thing European hotels often have is heated towel racks. These are not only luxurious but also functional. A damp washcloth thrown over one of these bad boys will be bone dry in no time.
Bring Multiple Washcloths
If you’ve got room in your luggage, consider packing more than one washcloth. This way, you can rotate them and ensure you always have a fresh one on hand. Alternatively, be prepared to launder your washcloth during your trip to keep things fresh.
Alternative Scrubbing Tools
Consider adopting the European way and foregoing washcloths altogether. Bring a small, lightweight loofah or body sponge. These can be just as effective and take up minimal space in your bag. No loofah? Get creative! Rick suggests that even a sock can serve as a makeshift washrag.
Use Your Hands
When in doubt, go au naturel. Many Europeans simply use their hands and some soap to get clean. It can be a surprisingly effective and minimalist approach to showering.
The Unwritten Towel Rules in Europe
Now that you’re armed with your trusty washcloth (or a creative alternative), let’s talk about the unwritten rules surrounding towels in European bathrooms.
Towel Etiquette at the Bidet
In places like Italy and Portugal, you might find both a standard toilet and a bidet. If you see a small towel near the bidet, resist the urge to use it on your face or body while showering. These towels are specifically meant for your nether regions post-bidet use.
Understand the Towel Types
Before you reach for any towel, it’s smart to take a moment and consider its designated use. A quick glance around the bathroom might save you from a potentially embarrassing mistake.
Adapting to European Bathing Habits
Europe offers a charming array of new sights and experiences, and that extends to their take on hygiene, showering, and bathing. Adapting to these habits can enhance your travel experience and make you feel more in tune with the local culture.
Embrace the Local Lifestyle
Many travelers find joy in adopting local customs, and showering habits can be an interesting cultural shift. Try showering with just your hands or using a loofah. You’ll likely find it’s a small adjustment that adds a touch of local flavor to your daily routine.
Packing Light With Multipurpose Items
If you’re wary of overpacking, think about bringing multipurpose items. For instance, a quick-drying hand towel can serve various roles, from drying your face to acting as a washcloth in a pinch.
Keeping the Tradition Alive (If You Must)
If you simply cannot part with your washcloths, some can be found compact and portable. These are designed specifically with travelers in mind and take up almost zero space in your luggage.
Conclusion: Enjoying Your European Adventure
When planning your European adventure, don’t let the lack of washcloths in hotels throw a wrench in the works. From quick-drying travel-friendly options to embracing local customs, there are plenty of ways to keep your cleaning routine intact. Rick Steves’ insights prepare you for a smoother trip with fewer surprises, ensuring you spend more time enjoying your European experience and less time worrying about the contents of your bathroom.
This quirky little omission in European hotels is just another facet of the charming cultural differences that make travel so enriching. Whether you choose to pack a washcloth, adapt to local habits, or get creative, you’ve got the knowledge now to make the best of your trip. Enjoy your adventure, and may all your hotel bathrooms—washcloth or no washcloth—bring you joy and not confusion.
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