Many Americans believe that tipping culture has gone too far.
While tipping used to be reserved for restaurants and other one-on-one services, it seems like an increasing number of transactions now come with a tip prompt. For example, internet users have reported being asked for tips everywhere from drinking fountains to self-checkout machines.
Now, an internet user has sparked discussion after claiming that tip requests have entered hotel rooms. But is that really uncommon?
A Tipping QR Code In A Hotel Room
In a video with over 1,400 views, TikTok user @themckinleys6 says he recently checked into a Hampton Inn in Bloomington, Indiana. After checking in, however, he noticed an “interesting note” placed in front of the television.
“Right now, Hampton Inn employees [are] encouraging people to tip their cleaning staff,” the TikToker says.
He holds up a note that reads, “Tipping Just Got Easier.” On the note is a QR code that allows guests to tip cleaning staff.
“The people who have just come in here, clean your room every day, deserve tips now,” the TikToker says in disbelief.
While this may be encouraged by the staff, the TikToker says he’s refusing to participate.
“For me, unless I’m getting turn-down service every single night and chocolates on my pillow before I go to sleep, I’m not giving a penny in tips to housekeeping staff,” he declares. “[That] should be a given that’s factored into your hotel stay.”
Are You Supposed To Tip Cleaning Staff?
While this may be unheard of for the TikToker, tipping cleaning staff is neither new nor uncommon.
As noted by NerdWallet, tipping cleaning staff is recommended, no matter how often they clean your room. Regarding how much one should tip, the American Hotel & Lodging Association suggests leaving a tip ranging from $1 to $5 per day.
When and how to tip is debated. In general, NerdWallet recommends leaving tips every day as opposed to a lump sum at the end of the stay. Additionally, the site suggests tipping in cash or via direct payment, as there may be rules about housekeeping staff accepting gifts from guests.
Why Should You Tip Cleaning Staff?
In his video, the TikToker voices his belief that hotel housekeeping staff should be paid fairly by their employer, not have their wages supplemented by guests.
While one can make an argument for this position, this is not how the system is presently designed. For example, the Hampton Inn is owned by Hilton. Hilton currently has a job listing on its website for a “Suite Attendant” in Bloomington, Indiana. This is a role that involves cleaning guests’ rooms.
This position pays $17 per hour. According to MIT’s Living Wage calculator, a living wage for an individual with zero children in Bloomington, Indiana, is $21.43. Given this disparity, many believe that guests should supplement cleaners’ income with tips.
Additionally, housekeeping is not an easy job. HuffPost notes that housekeepers face some of the highest injury rates in the industry. Furthermore, they are at elevated risk of sexual harassment and assault, as the job often requires working alone in guests’ rooms.
Commenters Don’t Agree
In the comments section, many users said that the TikToker was incorrect in his apparent belief that cleaning staff is not supposed to be tipped.
“Tipping hotel housekeepers has been around as long as you’ve been alive,” said a user.
“Common practice for those that travel a lot. It’s not required, but it’s nice they have a digital option when I don’t have cash on me,” offered another. “If you don’t want [to] tip, just don’t. I personally do because corporations don’t take care of their staff and I’m happy to help my fellow humans a little when I can.”
“I don’t know where you’ve been, but this is not a new thing, they’ve always expected tips, the new part is that they now let you do it electronically,” stated a third. “I’m not saying all of them deserve tips. I’m saying it’s always been expected for at least the last 20 years, if not longer.”
@themckinleys6 Tipping culture has gotten out of hand. #travel #hotel #tippingculture #resorts #tipping
BroBible reached out to Hilton via email and @themckinleys6 via TikTok direct message and comment.