Hotel rooms often include small extras designed to make your stay more comfortable, such as toiletries, slippers, pens, and notepads. But it’s natural to wonder which of these items you’re actually allowed to take home. A simple rule is that disposable, consumable, or clearly complimentary items are generally intended for guests, while reusable items meant for future visitors should usually remain in the room.

Small toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, soap, shower caps, and grooming kits are typically provided for guest use. Disposable slippers, hotel-branded pens, notepads, postcards, brochures, and promotional materials are also commonly fine to take. Coffee pods, tea bags, sugar, and creamers may be complimentary as well, although it’s best to check. Minibar snacks and drinks are different because they may come with an additional charge, especially in rooms equipped with automatic sensors.

Items such as towels, sheets, pillows, blankets, duvets, hair dryers, irons, kettles, coffee machines, remote controls, artwork, and decorations generally belong to the hotel and should stay behind. Bathrobes can be a gray area because some hotels allow guests to purchase them or take them home, while others expect them to remain in the room. Key cards and items such as religious books can also depend on the individual hotel’s policies, so don’t assume that every item is free to take.

If you’re unsure about something, the safest option is simply to ask the hotel. You can also check the room information or hotel website for details about complimentary items and replacement charges. Accidentally taking an item doesn’t necessarily mean there is a serious problem, but contacting the hotel and explaining the situation is the best way to handle it. A small toiletry, pen, or postcard can make a nice souvenir, while towels, equipment, furniture, and decorations should normally stay in the room.