Revealed: The real reason hotels have telephones in bathrooms | Lifestyle News

If you’ve ever stayed at a hotel, you may have noticed a telephone installed in the bathroom. 
While it might seem unnecessary at first, hotels have been placing telephones in bathrooms for decades. The reasoning behind this is not just about luxury but also about practicality and safety.
But how did the practice of installing telephones in hotel bathrooms originate, and what were the main reasons behind it?
DK Ghatani, travel consultant and CEO at Sikkim Expeditions, tells , “The practice of installing telephones in hotel bathrooms dates back to the mid-to-late 20th century when luxury hotels aimed to offer premium conveniences to their guests. Initially, it was a status symbol, reflecting the level of sophication and attention to detail in high-end accommodations. However, practicality and safety soon became the main driving factors.”
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One of the key reasons for bathroom telephones was emergency assance, he explains. “The bathroom is one of the most common places where slips and falls occur, especially with wet floors. Having a phone within reach allowed guests to call for help immediately. Additionally, business travellers in the pre-mobile phone era appreciated the ability to stay connected even while getting ready.”
This hotel bathroom in Dubai has a phone next to the toiletu/Heco1331 inmildlyinteresting
With most guests carrying mobile phones, do bathroom telephones still serve a practical purpose?
While mobile phones have reduced the necessity for in-room landlines, bathroom telephones still serve a purpose beyond just being a luxury feature. “Many guests do not carry their personal phones into the bathroom and in cases of emergency, such as sudden illness, slips, or falls, having a direct line to the front desk can be crucial,” shares the expert.
Ghatani continues, “Hotels also continue to provide bathroom telephones as a part of their commitment to accessibility. Elderly guests or those with mobility concerns may find it reassuring to have an easily reachable telephones in case of an accident. Additionally, some upscale hotels retain bathroom telephones as part of their brand identity, offering a sense of exclusivity and old-world charm.”
How do hotels balance modern technology with traditional safety measures like bathroom telephones to enhance guest security?
Hotels are constantly evolving to integrate modern technology while maintaining essential safety measures. Ghatani notes that many properties now complement traditional bathroom telephones with smart room systems, “allowing guests to use voice commands or touchscreen panels to contact hotel staff.” Some hotels also provide panic buttons in bathrooms, which serve the same purpose as telephones but in a more discreet and accessible way.
At the same time, he says, hotels recognise that not all guests may be comfortable relying solely on digital solutions. Traditional safety measures, including bathroom telephones , remain a reliable backup in case of technical failures or emergencies where guests may not have their mobile devices at hand. “Ultimately, the goal is to create a seamless blend of convenience, security, and luxury to enhance the overall guest experience,” concludes Ghatani.