I am nearly germaphobic...

[disfanRN]

We are new to DVC and have had one stay at SSR. When we arrived, the room was not well cleaned, including lipstick and crust on the coffee mugs and food stuck in the microwave, and toothpaste "dots" on the mirrors.
ALso, the room was in need to rehab, so the carpet appeared dirty. We alerted management and they took care of it immediately and I was ok with it. Ok, because I moved on as it was my vacation. It did make me feel uncomfortable and yucky.

We are staying at OKW in a few days, and I am wondering if I should alert them to my feelings ahead of time; that I can't tolerate a dirty room and that a really worn room makes me feel like it is dirty. I am not expecting perfection, but do not want to stay in a room in need of rehab. I can remedy the housekeeping situation by cleaning it myself.

Any thoughts? Call or fax? Wait till check in?

[magicmommy]

We have had several DVC stays at all the resorts except OKW. I don't think one resort is "cleaner" than another. I would wait until I checked in and if the room was not cleaned to your satisfaction I would make the call at that point.
I always bring cleaning wipes and do a quick sweep of countertops, bathrooms, door handles, phones, etc. So from one germaphobic to another...just wait and see!

[disissue]

There are rooms at OKW that have gone through recent rehab..if you are lucky enough to get one of these upon arrival I think you will be very pleased. I would express my concern when you arrive and nicely tell them about your prior experience at SSR. Have a great time :wizard:

[Chuck S]

To expect to get a room that is not near the end of its rehab cycle each and every visit to a timeshare that serves as many guests as DVC may be a little unrealistic. At any given DVC Resort at anytime, there are rooms that are freshly rehabbed, and those that are in need of rehab. DVC resorts operate at near capacity throughout most of the year, they simply may not be able to give a freshly rehabbed room each time.

Housekeeping, on the other hand, should provide a clean room, no matter whether there is wear and tear or not. Cups and Glasses have been removed from studio units at SSR ad OKW and replaced with styrofoam, reportedly because of the problems in sanitizing glassware. Glassware is still available upon request from housekeeping, but be sure to hand wash them before use.

OKW and SSR are looking into adding commercial glassware sanitizers to address the problem.

[crisi]

Also, timeshares have different housekeeping requirements than a hotel. They aren't required to run the dishes through a sanatize cycle between guests. A lot of guests will do their own dishes (most of us do) and put them away - so you are "stuck" with the housekeeping habits of the guest in the room prior to you.

Some DVCers with similar feelings to yourself bring their own cleaning supplies and do a good cleaning of the room when they get there, knowing that the room won't be up to a germophobes standards.

[Deb & Bill]

I agree with Crisi. If you want to superclean the room yourself with what you have, have at it. Otherwise, you may want to reconsider your DVC membership and staying in hotels anywhere in the world. You say you aren't expecting perfection, but something in me doesn't quite get that feeling from you.

DVC doesn't accept any faxes, so that would be a waste of time. Plus they should already know that any member, not just you, would rather have a clean villa than a dirty one.

Unless your last name is Disney and you are related, you aren't any different from any other member and shouldn't expect different service from DVC.

[BEASLYBOO]

Also, timeshares have different housekeeping requirements than a hotel. They aren't required to run the dishes through a sanatize cycle between guests. A lot of guests will do their own dishes (most of us do) and put them away - so you are "stuck" with the housekeeping habits of the guest in the room prior to you.

Some DVCers with similar feelings to yourself bring their own cleaning supplies and do a good cleaning of the room when they get there, knowing that the room won't be up to a germophobes standards.

Now, maybe I'm wrong to do this, please share your opinions as DVC users, When I depart from a stay I put in the dirty dishes and turn on the dishwasher and I leave. In my mind it ensures housekeeping that whatever we've used is then clean and not just dirty dishes put away as people have reported. Should I do it earlier and put it away, I always leave a very nice house keeping tip for our stay?

Upon arrival, no matter the look of the room, I use dis-infect wipes for the counters, toilet seats, dining room seats, door knobs, fixtures and appliances etc. I've got it down to a science, it takes me 15 minutes, 30 in the GV. I'm not germaphobic but I feel better if I do it. There's a lot of people traffic and many different standards of cleanliness.

[jamstew]

Now, maybe I'm wrong to do this, please share your opinions as DVC users, When I depart from a stay I put in the dirty dishes and turn on the dishwasher and I leave.

Since I've owned a non-Disney timeshare for over 20 years, and running the dishwasher is on the printed list of things to do before you check out, I do this wherever I stay :)

[crisi]

Now, maybe I'm wrong to do this, please share your opinions as DVC users, When I depart from a stay I put in the dirty dishes and turn on the dishwasher and I leave. In my mind it ensures housekeeping that whatever we've used is then clean and not just dirty dishes put away as people have reported. Should I do it earlier and put it away, I always leave a very nice house keeping tip for our stay?

Upon arrival, no matter the look of the room, I use dis-infect wipes for the counters, toilet seats, dining room seats, door knobs, fixtures and appliances etc. I've got it down to a science, it takes me 15 minutes, 30 in the GV. I'm not germaphobic but I feel better if I do it. There's a lot of people traffic and many different standards of cleanliness.

That's what we generally do as well. But I'll be the first to admit that my own mad housekeeping skilz are not up to a germophobes clean requirements - for instance, during our trip we might handwash some dishes rather than running the dishwasher - and in handwashing those dishes, they may be rinsed in less than scalding water or I may have missed a little speck of egg. And I'm sure I'm not the worst housekeeper to stay in a DVC unit.

[dcamdad]

Now, maybe I'm wrong to do this, please share your opinions as DVC users, When I depart from a stay I put in the dirty dishes and turn on the dishwasher and I leave. In my mind it ensures housekeeping that whatever we've used is then clean and not just dirty dishes put away as people have reported. Should I do it earlier and put it away, I always leave a very nice house keeping tip for our stay?

Upon arrival, no matter the look of the room, I use dis-infect wipes for the counters, toilet seats, dining room seats, door knobs, fixtures and appliances etc. I've got it down to a science, it takes me 15 minutes, 30 in the GV. I'm not germaphobic but I feel better if I do it. There's a lot of people traffic and many different standards of cleanliness.

Our routine also with one exception. As soon as we enter the villa we take all the glassware, plates and bowls from the cabinets and run them thru the dishwasher. It only takes finding you have just downed your drink from an unwashed glass of a stranger to force this habit.:scared1:

[BEASLYBOO]

Well I do the same, in truth since we drive I also bring my own sheets too.

[Newcastle]

I'm going to show this thread to my husband because he thinks that I'm absolutely nuts for carrying out the very cleaning routine that some of you have mentioned!

[starbox]

Ever since I read Nickel and Dimed (http://www.henryholt.com/holt/nickelanddimed.htm), I've packed my own cleaning supplies and gone over hotel rooms (not just DVC) upon arrival. If you're even slightly germaphobic, it's going to be impossible to find a hotel that cleans up to your standards.

[rheffelf]

I hope all of you germophobes clean the TV remote. There is at least half of all of the germs in your room...

I can understand the cleanliness issues. I always wear socks. I am leary about the bedspread, and after reading/seeing all the stories about bed bugs, I check under the mattress and behind the bedboards.

Can't let it run your life though.

[StayFLA]

I agree with Crisi. If you want to superclean the room yourself with what you have, have at it. Otherwise, you may want to reconsider your DVC membership and staying in hotels anywhere in the world. You say you aren't expecting perfection, but something in me doesn't quite get that feeling from you.

DVC doesn't accept any faxes, so that would be a waste of time. Plus they should already know that any member, not just you, would rather have a clean villa than a dirty one.

Unless your last name is Disney and you are related, you aren't any different from any other member and shouldn't expect different service from DVC.

This IS why I recommended a search on your user name weeks ago on the glassware issue. Your posts are based on the past history and knowledge of DVC.:flower3:

YES, bingo, TV remotes are number#1 germ source, but do I wipe it off,? NO

Ralph

[JMcDisney]

I would run the dishes through the dishwasher when I first arrived. I saw a 20/20 special about using hotel glasses that has me convinced that this is the safest thing to do!

[JimMIA]

I'm not Howard Hughes, but I wouldn't tolerate filth with a smile and my normal sweet disposition. :cool:

I have to say that in about three dozen DVC stays, my family has never had issues as described here. Not once. If I ever do, I will call the appropriate people, make them fix it to my exacting standards, and then go on with my vacation.

[BEASLYBOO]

I would run the dishes through the dishwasher when I first arrived. I saw a 20/20 special about using hotel glasses that has me convinced that this is the safest thing to do!

Ditto!

[disissue]

To expect to get a room that is not near the end of its rehab cycle each and every visit to a timeshare that serves as many guests as DVC may be a little unrealistic. At any given DVC Resort at anytime, there are rooms that are freshly rehabbed, and those that are in need of rehab. DVC resorts operate at near capacity throughout most of the year, they simply may not be able to give a freshly rehabbed room each time.

Housekeeping, on the other hand, should provide a clean room, no matter whether there is wear and tear or not. Cups and Glasses have been removed from studio units at SSR ad OKW and replaced with styrofoam, reportedly because of the problems in sanitizing glassware. Glassware is still available upon request from housekeeping, but be sure to hand wash them before use.

OKW and SSR are looking into adding commercial glassware sanitizers to address the problem.


I absolutley agree with you, this is why when I responded originally I said "if you are lucky enough to get one of these upon arrival I think you will be very pleased". I have to be honest though I do realize it is not possible to get a rehabbed room the 3 times a year I am there, however though when you do receive a villa with holes in the carpet, mildew on bathroom walls, cabinets with water damage and paint missing, stains on furniture, I do get a bit upset that the room down the hall looks great... I always run the dishes in the dishwasher when we arrive I don't however expect to do basic housekeeping upon arrival and clean my villa. I love DVC so when I do get that rehabbed room I am so happy to see all our maintaince money going to good use. I really just wish before the villas get to a point where they are tired Disney would maybe not book to capacity and take care of the villas properly.

[tekoa]

I think I read this tip on another thread regarding the TV remote. Place the remote in a zip lock bag. Germ problem begone.

[rheffelf]

Too bad you can't wrap the toilet in a plastic bag:rotfl:

[Deb & Bill]

Another comment, since this resort only opened the first section in 2004 and just opened the last section in 2007, it's hardly due for a rehab.

[crisi]

I'm not Howard Hughes, but I wouldn't tolerate filth with a smile and my normal sweet disposition. :cool:

I have to say that in about three dozen DVC stays, my family has never had issues as described here. Not once. If I ever do, I will call the appropriate people, make them fix it to my exacting standards, and then go on with my vacation.

I've never had a room that was in GREAT shape. The best one was last time - and that one wasn't perfect. Otherwise we've fallen victim to mold in the shower (its Florida), rusty fridge, someone's Froot Loops under the couch, someone who dripped what I suspect was pancake batter between the glass front of the stove (not attractive, but not a big deal), and endless broken drawers (missing knobs, broken hinges, drawers off their tracks). And one coffee cup that managed to get put away without getting washed (or, from what I could tell, rinsed). To me, none of these issues has been worth calling housekeeping - if the housekeeper doesn't find it worthwhile to call maintenance for a broken drawer before I get in the room, she can do it when I leave.

The other thing I've learned on these boards is that I'm amazingly non-picky. I notice that there is mold in the shower, and shug it off - its way cleaner than the apartment shower I shared with four other people in college. I see a little rust on the fridge and it isn't attractive, but it isn't like I'm setting unwrapped food on it. Unrinsed cup, well, I have access to a bottle of Palmolve and a sink, I can wash it quick. Germy remotes? I'm not going to be licking them or anything - my hands are going to touch as bad during a day in the MK and I find latex gloves to be hot and uncomfortable. I notice these things, and talk about them because other people care, but they have never been so bad that I've cared. I know at least once here, the room we checked out of was checked into by another DISer within months that posted pictures of the HORRIBLE STATE of the room - looked just like what we stayed in, and it wasn't that bad - but apparently, I'd stayed in the slum room.

[Saratoga Souris]

We all live differently. I think that is why there are many different DVC resorts and they all have a different theme and feel. OKW takes a lot of flack for being "run down" but I like the homey "lived in" feel. I guess that is why I live in a house that is more than 100 years old and is located downtown. Old doors, old windows, no driveway... you get the idea. To some it would seem "run down" as the floors and walls are dented and marked. For me, I could never live in "suburbia" for others, that (all new) is the only place to be. An older sink, for example, is never going to shine like a brand new one! That doesn't mean that it isn't clean.

Having said all that.... I do not expect a "dirty" room, but I don't expect a "sanitized" one either. I just expect a clean room. If you need "sanitized" then you probably should bring your own supplies. It is the only way to know your room is cleaned the way you want it. While you can see dirt, you can't see germs and, dirt does not equal germs!

One last thought..... be aware... too many people are "over-sanitizing". There is some pretty strong evidence that this is contributing to less healthy kids, weaker immune systems, more allergies and respiratory troubles. Here is just one of many articles.............

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20774622/

[AKLFan3]

My family and I are also germaphobes, which is why we travel with Lysol wipes (or something equivalent) and wipe down the door handles in our room, TV remote and place kleenexes on the nightstand so we have something to put our watches and glasses on before we go to sleep. We had a room at OKW in February that badly needed to be refurbished. So if I were you, (and what we're planning to do for our OKW trip in April) is to call housekeeping as soon as you check in if you are unsatisfied with the level of cleanliness in your room. Then, wipe down all surfaces that you feel are not up to your standards. I know EXACTLY how you feel about not feeling very comfortable if your room is grubby. We felt the same way in February and I actually did not look forward returning to our room in the evening after a long day at the parks. We also do not bother using the dishes and kitchen utensils, we just bring our own paper plates and plastic utensils & cups. However, this only works because we don't cook and eat at the restaurants for all meals.

[Deb & Bill]

My family and I are also germaphobes, ...We also do not bother using the dishes and kitchen utensils, we just bring our own paper plates and plastic utensils & cups. However, this only works because we don't cook and eat at the restaurants for all meals.

What do you do when you go to a restaurant? Do you bring your own flatware and dishes?

[Alexander]

What do you do when you go to a restaurant? Do you bring your own flatware and dishes?

:lmao: I swear I was thinking the same exact thing!

Sometimes you just gotta "let it go". I will never forget when DS was about 4and he decidee to lick the railing handle while waiting in line for the Winnie the Pooh ride. I thought I was going to die! He was fine! Has lived to the ripe ol' age of 9 so far and hasn't even had a sniffle!

Life's too short to worry so much!

[wltdsnyfan]

When we stayed at SSR I ran everything we were goingto use through the dishwasher (even though they were cleand) just so I knew they were clean.

When we left I ran everyting that we used through the dishwasher again.

[Saratoga Souris]

Listen.... I work in a restaurant on the weekends. I'm 44 and have been working in restaurant since I was 15 - nearly 30 years.
I have worked in all kinds of restaurants... pubs to fine dining... and let me tell you.....
Your DVC kitchen and tableware get better care than restaurant stuff.
For all you germaphobes out there... if you knew...... you'd almost never eat in a restaurant.
While most restaurants attempt to keep things well sanitized, this process is only as good as it's "weakest link". The guy that is makiing minimum wage as the dishwasher may not be cleaning things to germaphobe standards...

[wltdsnyfan]

Listen.... I work in a restaurant on the weekends. I'm 44 and have been working in restaurant since I was 15 - nearly 30 years.
I have worked in all kinds of restaurants... pubs to fine dining... and let me tell you.....
Your DVC kitchen and tableware get better care than restaurant stuff.
For all you germaphobes out there... if you knew...... you'd almost never eat in a restaurant.
While most restaurants attempt to keep things well sanitized, this process is only as good as it's "weakest link". The guy that is makiing minimum wage as the dishwasher may not be cleaning things to germaphobe standards...

I agree with you on that. I do not want to know what goes on in a kitchen at a restaurant I am better off not knowing.

[nydizfan]

I have been a member since 1994 and only a couple of times have I had a problem with cleanliness of a room. I also work in the restaurant business and have been for 30 years. (chef) . If I told you what goes on behind the kitchen door as it has to do with cleaning dishes and flatware, you would never eat in a restaurant. And this goes for only the germaphobes because you cant really get things spotlessly clean. Do things get dropped on the floor and picked up with just a wipe off.. yes, many times many times.

[TDC Nala]

haven't had a lot of problems with DVC but I am not really a germophobe. However there was half a bagel left in the microwave for my AKV stay in February. (and it wasn't MY bagel).

Didn't call anybody, just took the bagel out and wiped down the oven.

[susieh]

This thread seems to be a mix of responses from 'normal people' and 'germaphobes' - sorry if that description offends some people but the fact that many people waste resources putting everything through the dishwasher when they arrive and re-cleaning an apartment that has been cleaned by housekeeping offends me!

I wonder if anyone has done a study or survey to see if chidren brought up in a very sanitized house are less or more healthy than one brought up in a less sanitized one?

[Tiger926]

This thread seems to be a mix of responses from 'normal people' and 'germaphobes' - sorry if that description offends some people but the fact that many people waste resources putting everything through the dishwasher when they arrive and re-cleaning an apartment that has been cleaned by housekeeping offends me!

I wonder if anyone has done a study or survey to see if chidren brought up in a very sanitized house are less or more healthy than one brought up in a less sanitized one?

This never fails to happen here on the DIS - people who are not that into cleaning get insultive (you have offended many of us who like things cleaner by calling us not 'normal') and post links to oversanitizing, etc. This is the thing: some of us have weaker immune systems than others, some of us have asthma/allergies to mold or dust, some of us have had children almost die from catching viruses from being exposed to others who didn't feel the need to stay inside while they were very ill.

The OP posted a legitimate question about this topic - the fact is, hotels are shared by many different people, so the need for sanitation is there. Your sanitation level may not be mine, but there is no need to get insulting about it. There are lots of ill children -Make a Wish children to be exact at WDW - so it's important to pass sanitizing tips around. Regardless of whether you or someone else has not sanitized and touched remotes, lightswitches, etc., has no bearing on the OP's family or her level of cleanliness. We are a very green family as well, but we do re-wash the dishes and glasses because catching a contagious illness from the last room occupants is not high on our list of fun while on vacation - been there, done that with an infant, and it's very scary!

We always wipe down remotes, lightswitches and phones as the infectious disease specialists that I've dealt with in my life, have all concurred that wiping down these areas between visitors is essential in not spreading germs. I do it myself because the dirty rag that the maid uses to clean my room for me, doesn't quite cut it. Remotes and phones in hotel rooms hardly ever get cleaned, and they can and have been swabbed and proven to carry some serious viruses and bacteria - these could be devastating to some people's immune systems. Do I use antibacterial cleaners at home? Nope, as this I believe is oversanitizing (we use vinegar, Lotus sanitizer - it uses water! and green/organic natural cleaners), but, remember, when in a hotel room, you are being exposed to other people's germs from all over the world, again, not good for some people's systems, so extra cleaning is prudent in this situation.

To those of you who don't sanitize and have Teflon immune systems, good for you, but please remember, some of us do not, nor have children who do not, so suggesting that we are not 'normal' or contributing to some type of oversanitizing problem is not necessary. A little bit of common germs do strengthen our immune systems, but for babies, elderly or any other immunocompromised people to catch streph, staph or rhotavirus, as examples of bacteria that live on hard surfaces, these could be deadly.

To the OP, I wish you a good vacation and a room that is clean and safe for you and your family to stay in, but if not, wipe it down yourself - I'm sure you'd do a much better job anyway - I know I do!

Tiger

[GGOOFY1]

Very well said Tiger926 :thumbsup2

[DisFlan]

Sheesh, with everyone wiping switches, remotes, faucets, etc with all kinds of cleaning stuff...plus whatever housekeeping comes in and adds, how am I to know what toxic brew has been slathered all over the villas? Will we have to start RINSING everything off when we get there?

Maybe all you guys can get together and coordinate your cleaning chemicals or leave a note or something? At least with housekeeping, I can call and ask. I'm allergic to a lot of that stuff, so I'd really like to know what's there.

If you did catch anything, how would you know it wasn't from one of the handlebars on a ride, or from a kid in line sneezing on your kid? You're more likely to catch something out in the parks than in one of the rooms.


DisFlan

[mvc1997]

It just makes sense to put all the dishes through the dishwasher on arrival.

We also bring wipes and go over the rooms etc.
After having a room that someone had put snot all over the light switches (no we didn't call housekeeping) we always bring our own cleaning supplies.

Bedspreads, get moved tp the chair in the bedrooms. I don't even want to think about them.
When we leave we also put used dishes in the dishwasher so mousekeeping knows they are clean and saves her time. If mousekeeping had to properly clean each villa, from dishes, entire kitchen surfaces, bathrooms (all surfaces), bedrooms, windows, blinds etc., etc,. dues would be through the roof and they would need a half day to clean each one.

If everyone did their part, the rooms wouldn't take housekeeping so long to clean them. I just wish they could keep the floors cleaner.

Still DVC is the best way to have many priceless vacations with loved ones!

BTW, the last time we stayed at OKW we watched a villa get the VIP treatment!! It took two days!

Maybe the OP should ask about that.

[DisFlan]

I wonder if anyone has done a study or survey to see if chidren brought up in a very sanitized house are less or more healthy than one brought up in a less sanitized one?

It's pretty well accepted by scientists and medical professionals that if children grow up in an overly clean environment, their immune systems are never adequately challenged and a number of them grow up with diminished response systems. They think this might be one (and I stress one) of the reasons asthma has increased so dramatically in children and young adults in the last 20 or so years. (Yes, I do know what I'm talking about.)

This does not mean all children in "clean" environments will grow up with problems, or that all children in "dirty" environments will grow up healthy. It's merely one of the contributors.

As for myself, I'm more interested in what allergenic substances are used in a villa. If people want to hyperclean their environments, that's fine with me - up to the point where it might make me sick.

DisFlan

[Deb & Bill]

It's pretty well accepted by scientists and medical professionals that if children grow up in an overly clean environment, their immune systems are never adequately challenged and a number of them grow up with diminished response systems. They think this might be one (and I stress one) of the reasons asthma has increased so dramatically in children and young adults in the last 20 or so years. (Yes, I do know what I'm talking about.)

This does not mean all children in "clean" environments will grow up with problems, or that all children in "dirty" environments will grow up healthy. It's merely one of the contributors.

As for myself, I'm more interested in what allergenic substances are used in a villa. If people want to hyperclean their environments, that's fine with me - up to the point where it might make me sick.

DisFlan

Excellent post, DisFlan.

[Alexander]

If you want to build up a stronger immune system, get a job working with kids! :lmao: I've been teaching for over 14 years been thrown up on, sneezed-on, wiped snot off of desks and papers, etc. All in all, I've had two minor colds.

If anyone is so afraid of germs that they feel the need to santize everything in their sight, they should probably avoid places like WDW!

I agree with previous posters about all of the different chemicals being used in the rooms! That can harm the health of my children more than a few germs.

[BEASLYBOO]

If you want to build up a stronger immune system, get a job working with kids! :lmao: I've been teaching for over 14 years been thrown up on, sneezed-on, wiped snot off of desks and papers, etc. All in all, I've had two minor colds.

If anyone is so afraid of germs that they feel the need to santize everything in their sight, they should probably avoid places like WDW!

I agree with previous posters about all of the different chemicals being used in the rooms! That can harm the health of my children more than a few germs.

Hey, if you normal folks don't mind drinking from a cup that has someone else's lip prints on it(BCV), that's your business. And if you don't feel the need to wipe down light switches that clearly have dirt on them (OKW), that again is your choice. I don't live that way at home nor do I while vacationing in these villas. I'm not germaphobic, I just have a different standard of cleanliness. My little 15 minute routine saves time for housekeeping to take care of the bigger jobs.

P.S. Normal Folks, please don't worry about the chemicals I use, if you can survive a swim in the public pools, my Lysol Wipes arent' going to kill you or the environment. By the way, normal, who's definition? :rolleyes1

[Disneyaholic]

We all have our own little quirks and consequently our own ways of dealing with them. ;)

When I check into a hotel or a DVC resort, if there is something that is obviously not clean enough that it bothers me (like lip prints on a glass) I will either take care of it myself or I will call housekeeping, depending upon the severity of the problem. I do not, however, routinely clean everything whether it needs it or not.

Anyone who wants to take his or her own time for a cleaning routine that is above the "standard" is certainly entitled to do that; expecting special treatment (like the guarantee of a recently refurbished room) is expecting too much. JMHO. :)

[swhall]

Just returned from a trip at SSR....the bathroom had not been cleaned prior to our arrival...the toilet was disgusting....when the toilet seat cover was closed we found the "remains" along the back of the seat.....disgusting....
This was my "first trip home"....welcome! That was when I wished I had brought my own Lysol wipes!!! and gloves!!!

[AKLFan3]

What do you do when you go to a restaurant? Do you bring your own flatware and dishes?
Of course not...that is a pretty odd question to ask, don't you think? :rolleyes: When we eat at restaurants, we hope that everything has been cleaned and we are fully aware that maybe we are eating off of plates or silverware that haven't been completely sanitized. But why should we further increase our exposure to unsanitized plates/silverware by eating off of the plates and drinking out of the glasses provided in the room? Especially when we don't have to and it isn't an inconvenience to bring our own paper products. I would rather take out my paper plate, which takes 5 seconds, instead of spending time loading and running the dishwasher. It's just easier for us. There is the possibility that restaurants adhere to a higher standard than housekeeping. And if not, oh well. I control what I can when it comes to germs. But I am not so much of a germaphobe that I will choose to skip eating at Jiko in favor of going grocery shopping so that I know my food was prepared with a clean skillet.

One may think it is ridiculous to clean up after housekeeping, eat off of paper plates, etc. But to another person, using the kitchen supplies provided without cleaning them, or not wiping out the drawers/cabinets may sound equally ridiculous. We all have our own comfort levels and we're just sharing personal tips. Sarcasm and judgment does not have to accompany the post.
Hey, if you normal folks don't mind drinking from a cup that has someone else's lip prints on it(BCV), that's your business. And if you don't feel the need to wipe down light switches that clearly have dirt on them (OKW), that again is your choice. I don't live that way at home nor do I while vacationing in these villas. I'm not germaphobic, I just have a different standard of cleanliness.
I completely agree, Beaslyboo!

[buzz5985]

Story of two sisters. One - germaphob - sanitizes everything - her kids always sick. Sister and DH always sick.

Other sister - does not use sanitizers - not recommended by pediatrician - kid never sick. Never an ear ache, strep once - he is 11. Parents never sick.

Never had a problem in any DVC room.

Sometimes the chemicals used in cleaning are more hazardous than the germs.

[goofy4tink]

What do you do when you go to a restaurant? Do you bring your own flatware and dishes?
I have a friend who whenever she and her family eat out, follow this proceedure.......sit down, read the menus, make your choice and order, then out comes the Purell to clean those nasty menu germs off, eat, more Purell. She has a huge bottle of the stuff in the car as well. It's really kind of funny.

Germs in WDW?? While I understand that there are those who feel that they want to wipe down surfaces in their villas (I have been known to do this as well), what do you do in the parks? I know that when we go to WDW in the winter, when flu is rampant, I tell my dd to not run her hands along those attraction railings...and it's this time that we actually bring out the hand sanitizers.
I always hand wash the glasses in my villa before using them. I have never run the dishwasher...at least not to date. I do wipe down the door handles and remotes. But, I have been pretty fortunate so far, I have had clean villas. I accept that there is going to be some mold in the shower..it's Florida. Even my step-mother has some in her bathroom and she is a cleaning nut!!
I will say that the villas at BW could use some attention though. My last stay there, in January, found much to be repaired. The doors to the armoire were close to falling off, drawers didn't close easily. The elements on the stove were all popped up and askew. The kitchen didn't have nearly as many cooking utensils in it as I have had previously. My hair dryer was broken but maintainence came right up with a new one. The other stuff I mentioned the day I checked out.

[ClarabelleCow]

im one of those that never re-washes. I look first, if dirty, into the dishwasher. If room dirty, will call housekeeping. Re;bedding, I saw all those reports on the bedspreads, but do they replace th blankets also between guests??? My sister always has the kids using the purell stuff, her kids are always sick, not bad, just runny nose, etc. My kids, nothing. Do I want to eat off dirty plates - no, paper plates are a waste as are plastic cups, just filling up the landfills.

As far as restaurants, if I thought about it, I would never eat out!

[Chuck S]

I will admit to using Purell, or going to the restroom to wash my hands, before being seated in a restaurant. I also keep Purell inthe car, but really it is there for car trips and use after stopping at rest areas. Especially when you see the studies that only 85% of women and 65% of men wash their hands after using the facilities.

I look over the glassware the villas, and if it doesn't look really clean I hand wash it before use. That is about as germaphobic as I get. Dirt and germs are part of life, but I do my best to dine with clean utensils and hands, that just seems lke common sense.

[Tiger926]

To all of the people worrying about the chemicals used in cleaning products, you bring up a good point, as I have severe chemical allergies myself, so here are my thoughts:

1. Those of you saying that guests who use cleansers or Lysol wipes are harming you or your kids, aren't really thinking logically about it. If I check in (I don't use chemicals, by the way, as vinegar & water or natural based sprays are great) on Sunday, and wipe down my room upon check-in and then check-out a week later, not only have those chemicals dissipated soon after I used them, but housekeeping used commercial cleansers (bleach based I am assuming) to ready for your check-in, so my chemicals are all long gone, and it is the housekeeper's much more potent chemicals that are lingering. I will say though as someone who gets sick easily, it's much better for me to breathe in a few chemicals and take a puffer, than to catch a virus from an uncleaned remote or WDW handrail, as viruses last a very long time for me - no such thing as a 24 hour bug for me, more like 5-6 days!

2. For everyone who is worrying about chemicals, and with good reason, there are lots of natural/organic non-chemical cleansers out there such as: Method, Seventh Generation, Shaklee, vinegar, lemon juice or water (we have a Lotus Sanitizing system that we are bringing with us). These work just as good, or better than chemical laden cleansers, so for those of us with allergies/asthma, we can clean without getting sick!

3. Along these same lines, each DVC villa has it's own air filter and you can request these be changed for your arrival! One of the head engineers who was changing out the filters on our floor last summer at SSR, told us about the filter rotation schedule, but for those of us with astma or serious allergies, they will come and check the filter and if necessary, put in a fresh, new one right away.

4. Again, people keep bringing up the fact of oversanitization and doctors telling them not to do it, and that is true, on a daily basis. Cleaning down your room upon check-in that someone else has occupied before you does not fit into this category. They are talking about people who constantly use hand sanitizers all day long at home, etc., or, for people who have antibacterial everything in their homes, cars, etc. Quickly wiping down hotel remotes or telephones does not fall into this category, and, in fact, most doctors will tell you to do so as these hard surfaces can carry some seriously contagious bacteria as they are hardly ever cleaned. The pediatric specialists who treated us at Arnold Palmer's Children's Hospital in Orlando, mentioned to us a multitude of times that they wished more visitors to WDW would practice better hygiene, quickly wipe down phones/remotes, stay home or inside if ill, not let babies crawl on ground as they can pick up many foreign germs that are very dangerous to their young immune systems, and, the best advice - wash, wash, wash those hands all day long!! Basically, in a place like WDW that sees millions of visitors per year, they told us that this is an extreme situation; therefore, it is prudent for parents and guests to practice extra sanitation as they see some seriously ill children who were visiting WDW. The best extra one can do, is wash, wash, wash those hands, but they did say, that hand sanitizers if used properly (every 3rd time actually creates more bacteria, so 1x or 2x and then it's time to go and wash hands with soap/water) are necessary in places like WDW.

** People keep bringing up handrails, benches, knobs, restaurant menus, buffet lines, etc. in the parks and with good reason. Again, those of us who clean our rooms most assuredly already wipe down handles, use sanitizers or wash our hands. Docs told us that they have swabbed these areas, as well as shopping carts, public phones, etc., and found not only bacteria, but drugs as well; therefore, I totally agree that in this respect, rooms are cleaner than the parks, as did our docs. They actually said they have done cultures in WDW parks and found very nasty stuff. They advise all people to be extra vigilant in the parks, because although there is good bacteria present, there is also very harmful bacteria present, and this is the stuff that they don't want to see as it guarantees them babies and young children in serious medical distress, been there, done that.

Despite the fact that with most things on the DIS, this has turned into an Us vs. Them debate, a little foresight and education goes a long way in regards to this topic as per our pediatric specialists at the hospital, and, as I previously reminded people, there are many immunocompromised people who visit WDW, so please remember that. I find it highly insulting for people to say "Stay home." What about a little compromising? Those of us who like to clean will do so sparingly and with less chemical based products, and the rest of you who like germs, will remember that this is fine in your own environment, but when you are sharing WDW with millions of other people, it wouldn't hurt you to be a little more cautious and respect the fact that although you may have a strong immune system, not all the rest of us do, especially young babies, elderly and cancer patients, so please, continuously wash your hands, and remember, that villa is not your home, it will be shared by someone else right after you!

Healthy vibes sent to all WDW guests, Tiger :)

[dianeschlicht]

Sheesh, with everyone wiping switches, remotes, faucets, etc with all kinds of cleaning stuff...plus whatever housekeeping comes in and adds, how am I to know what toxic brew has been slathered all over the villas? Will we have to start RINSING everything off when we get there?

Maybe all you guys can get together and coordinate your cleaning chemicals or leave a note or something? At least with housekeeping, I can call and ask. I'm allergic to a lot of that stuff, so I'd really like to know what's there.

If you did catch anything, how would you know it wasn't from one of the handlebars on a ride, or from a kid in line sneezing on your kid? You're more likely to catch something out in the parks than in one of the rooms.


DisFlan

I could have posted this! I always think the same thing. I too have lots of cleaning product issues, and have even had to sleep in the car on one occation when the hotel room had "something sprayed in it" that I couldn't tolerate. I'm quite sure the theme parks don't "sanitize" the hand rails, door knobs, ride handles, or just about anything else that human hands can touch. If you are going to "catch" anything from a trip, it's likely going to be in those areas before the room!

[BEASLYBOO]

Well Said Tiger926!

[DisFlan]

Do you guys ever read the INSTRUCTIONS for those wipes? You have to wipe, then KEEP THE SURFACE WET FOR 5 MINUTES to have the stuff be effective. That means to disinfect that remote, you have to keep wiping and wiping...and wiping. For 5 full minutes. Anyone who says "oh, no problem, the whole villa only takes a few minutes to swab down" is fooling themselves. You've wasted your time. If you don't strictly follow instructions on all cleaning products, they don't work. And they're toxic. (Don't pay any attention to that pretty lady in commercials who is quickly wiping down toys. She's SELLING wipes.)

And those soaps that are labelled as "antibacterial"? They don't kill viruses. Not a one. They kill the weaker bacteria and leave the strongest to become superbugs. In a villa, viruses (rarely) would probably be one of your biggest worrries. And you WON'T kill the worrisome viruses (like Norwalk) with anything you'd be using from home. Most of the other germs are killed when they DRY. I'll repeat that. Most germs DIE when they DRY. Not all, but most of the ones you'd need to be concerned with.

More often that not, the bathroom is cleaner than the kitchen. It's a fact. Forget the bathroom. Move on. If there's poop on the walls or mold crawling out of the shower, call housekeeping. Their cleaners are more effective than whatever you brought from home. Your efforts might get whatever was bothering you out of sight, but that's about all. They aren't gone. (They never really are. You just feel better about them if you can't see or smell them, even at home.)

The dirtiest things in a kitchen are not usually countertops. It's the drain and the sponge. (Well, the sludge-y stuff in your veggie drawer might not be too good.) Replace your sponge once a week or boil it for 3 minutes. At home, use old sponges for scrubbing the deck or garage floor. Cutting boards are fine if you don't use a wooden one to cut meat. Use plastic for meat and stick it in the dishwasher. Use wood for veggies and wash it with soap and water. As for the drain, in a villa, just stay away from it (as in don't lick it or poke fingers down it). If your dishes don't look clean, call housekeeping or run them through the DW.

If you're a bleach person, remember that a surface has to be cleaned FIRST, then bleach has to remain in contact with it, WET, for 30 minutes. (This kills just about everything - large and small.) I don't know about you guys but that's more than I want to do on my vacation.

How do I know this stuff? As a clinical microbiologist, I've spent years using and testing cleaning products of all kinds on all sorts of surfaces and usages. That's how I developed allergies to many of them - which ought to be a lesson to you. Don't use what you really don't need. And you DON'T need most of them. Use *plain* old soap and water for just about everything. And boycott stuff that contains "Triclosan". It's in all kinds of stuff (like toothpaste) and it's the cleaning/chemical equilvalent of transfats. Also - sprays that "clean/disinfect the air"? Save your money. Ain't gonna happen. Plus, those "natural" cleaners that contain citrus, tea tree oil and other things can be a problem themselves. Most of them don't work as well as plain soap. But that's another story.

There. You just got a free $200 consultation/mini-lecture.

DisFlan

[dgaston]

Thanks DisFlan! Would you like your fee in :banana: ? About the best I could do with the smilies.

I appreciate your expertise on the issue and will now add "triclosan" to the list of things to watch out for.

[DisFlan]

Thanks, Debbie! The banana will do nicely. lol!

DisFlan

[Tiger926]

Do you guys ever read the INSTRUCTIONS for those wipes? You have to wipe, then KEEP THE SURFACE WET FOR 5 MINUTES to have the stuff be effective. That means to disinfect that remote, you have to keep wiping and wiping...and wiping. For 5 full minutes. Anyone who says "oh, no problem, the whole villa only takes a few minutes to swab down" is fooling themselves. You've wasted your time. If you don't strictly follow instructions on all cleaning products, they don't work. And they're toxic. (Don't pay any attention to that pretty lady in commercials who is quickly wiping down toys. She's SELLING wipes.)

And those soaps that are labelled as "antibacterial"? They don't kill viruses. Not a one. They kill the weaker bacteria and leave the strongest to become superbugs. In a villa, viruses (rarely) would probably be one of your biggest worrries. And you WON'T kill the worrisome viruses (like Norwalk) with anything you'd be using from home. Most of the other germs are killed when they DRY. I'll repeat that. Most germs DIE when they DRY. Not all, but most of the ones you'd need to be concerned with.

More often that not, the bathroom is cleaner than the kitchen. It's a fact. Forget the bathroom. Move on. If there's poop on the walls or mold crawling out of the shower, call housekeeping. Their cleaners are more effective than whatever you brought from home. Your efforts might get whatever was bothering you out of sight, but that's about all. They aren't gone. (They never really are. You just feel better about them if you can't see or smell them, even at home.)

The dirtiest things in a kitchen are not usually countertops. It's the drain and the sponge. (Well, the sludge-y stuff in your veggie drawer might not be too good.) Replace your sponge once a week or boil it for 3 minutes. At home, use old sponges for scrubbing the deck or garage floor. Cutting boards are fine if you don't use a wooden one to cut meat. Use plastic for meat and stick it in the dishwasher. Use wood for veggies and wash it with soap and water. As for the drain, in a villa, just stay away from it (as in don't lick it or poke fingers down it). If your dishes don't look clean, call housekeeping or run them through the DW.

If you're a bleach person, remember that a surface has to be cleaned FIRST, then bleach has to remain in contact with it, WET, for 30 minutes. (This kills just about everything - large and small.) I don't know about you guys but that's more than I want to do on my vacation.

How do I know this stuff? As a clinical microbiologist, I've spent years using and testing cleaning products of all kinds on all sorts of surfaces and usages. That's how I developed allergies to many of them - which ought to be a lesson to you. Don't use what you really don't need. And you DON'T need most of them. Use *plain* old soap and water for just about everything. And boycott stuff that contains "Triclosan". It's in all kinds of stuff (like toothpaste) and it's the cleaning/chemical equilvalent of transfats. Also - sprays that "clean/disinfect the air"? Save your money. Ain't gonna happen. Plus, those "natural" cleaners that contain citrus, tea tree oil and other things can be a problem themselves. Most of them don't work as well as plain soap. But that's another story.

There. You just got a free $200 consultation/mini-lecture.

DisFlan

Why would you assume that we don't read the labels or properly know how to clean? I'm not a microbiologist, but I know all of this info and then some. I am interested in your natural cleaners remark though - what evidence do you have to back this up? First of all, most organic or natural cleaners aren't antibacterial, so they aren't supposed to kill bacteria - my Method and Seventh Gen cleaners are used to freshen up the refrigerator shelves or countertops. If I want to kill bacteria say from cutting fresh meat for dinner, I use hot water and vinegar. Tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial, but it loses it's potency after a short amount of time and needs to be combined with something else for effectiveness - I'm still learning about how to properly use tea tree oil. I never use bleach as I'm highly allergic to it. Good point about sponges - never use them, and think that DVC providing them in the villas is a waste of money.

Of course as microbiologist you are going to be privy to things that the rest of us aren't, but the widespread usage of Triclosan has been known to be a problem for years, but good luck in getting chemical companies to admit using it. Chemical companies don't have to list their ingredients, and that is a problem that our governments have created.

I totally agree with you that washing hands and using soap and water is best, but in certain cases, such as blood from raw meat, or cooking fresh fish, or, diaper pail, soap and water may not cut it. We do use soap and water most and it works well in many cases, but it really depends upon the situation!

Thanks for the discussion! Happy health to all, Tiger :)

[disneyfan2kids]

We are staying at OKW in a few days, and I am wondering if I should alert them to my feelings ahead of time; that I can't tolerate a dirty room and that a really worn room makes me feel like it is dirty. I am not expecting perfection, but do not want to stay in a room in need of rehab. I can remedy the housekeeping situation by cleaning it myself.

Any thoughts? Call or fax? Wait till check in?

My initial reaction to this post is that OP is asking if she should clarify with front desk that she wants a clean & updated room. Do you honestly believe that there are other members out there that truly are OK with dirty, old rooms. Do you feel that way? If so, I suppose you should talk to front desk.

However, my thought is that every member would prefer a clean, updated room. I think it's somewhat ridiculous for anyone to think otherwise.

[DisFlan]

Tiger926 - if you're happy with your natural cleaners, that's fine. Most of the things in them are added as surfactants - they release dirt and germs and allow them to be rinsed away. This is much less toxic than standard cleaners, and this is good. The problem is that many of these natural items can also be allergenic. Between 10 and 20% of the population is allergic to tea tree oil. Even if you aren't, if you use it long enough, you may become allergic to it.

I tend to like what Seventh Gen and (most) similar companies are doing with their products - aiming them away from the current infusion of toxic, poly-syllabic chemical compounds into almost everything we use on a daily basis (diapers, laundry soap, toothpaste, hand soap, deodorant, etc).

You might also consider using hydrogen peroxide as a cleaner for many things. It's not as allergenic as many of the "natural" cleaners and it's dirt cheap. It also kills a variety of germs. Vinegar is also fairly effective in some cases (not all). It's about a 5% acid (kills some germs) and is also a moderately good surfactant.

But keep in mind that plain old dish soap (the kind without all the added stuff) is an EXCELLANT surfactant. As is plain hand soap like Ivory for hand and skin cleansing. And they smell better than vinegar.

And I think this is all I have to say on the subject. I like a clean room as much as the next guest. If the state of the room was really, REALLY horrible (hasn't happened yet), I'd call housekeeping or ask for a cleaner room. I wouldn't waste vacation time by attempting to remedy the problem(s) myself.


DisFlan

[ClarabelleCow]

totally off topic here, but i have like 3 gallons of vinegar, keep buying bulk not realizing i already have!!! How do you use it for cleaning? I have used it in the washer, but that was it. How is it used to clean your house instead of all those chemicals???

[Starr W.]

totally off topic here, but i have like 3 gallons of vinegar, keep buying bulk not realizing i already have!!! How do you use it for cleaning? I have used it in the washer, but that was it. How is it used to clean your house instead of all those chemicals???

I have a book called Home Comforts(it has all that stuff that my late mother knew about cleaning and housekeeping), the author is pretty big on vinegar, baking soda. I have a friend that uses vinegar/water to clean windows and mirrors because she's allergic to windex.

PM me if you want some more info on the book.

[crisi]

I tend to like what Seventh Gen and (most) similar companies are doing with their products - aiming them away from the current infusion of toxic, poly-syllabic chemical compounds into almost everything we use on a daily basis (diapers, laundry soap, toothpaste, hand soap, deodorant, etc).

You might also consider using hydrogen peroxide as a cleaner for many things. It's not as allergenic as many of the "natural" cleaners and it's dirt cheap. It also kills a variety of germs. Vinegar is also fairly effective in some cases (not all). It's about a 5% acid (kills some germs) and is also a moderately good surfactant.


The Seventh Gen counter cleaner is hydrogen peroxide - plus citris oil and a enzyme that breaks down protein. But mostly hydrogen peroxide.

Clarabelle - I put vinegar (straight) into a dollar store spray bottle and spray it straight. It works pretty well in the bathroom on soap scum and hard water.

[dianeschlicht]

The Seventh Gen counter cleaner is hydrogen peroxide - plus citris oil and a enzyme that breaks down protein. But mostly hydrogen peroxide.

Clarabelle - I put vinegar (straight) into a dollar store spray bottle and spray it straight. It works pretty well in the bathroom on soap scum and hard water.

Just don't use it on your granite, slate or marble!!!

[Tiger926]

Tiger926 - if you're happy with your natural cleaners, that's fine. Most of the things in them are added as surfactants - they release dirt and germs and allow them to be rinsed away. This is much less toxic than standard cleaners, and this is good. The problem is that many of these natural items can also be allergenic. Between 10 and 20% of the population is allergic to tea tree oil. Even if you aren't, if you use it long enough, you may become allergic to it.

I tend to like what Seventh Gen and (most) similar companies are doing with their products - aiming them away from the current infusion of toxic, poly-syllabic chemical compounds into almost everything we use on a daily basis (diapers, laundry soap, toothpaste, hand soap, deodorant, etc).

You might also consider using hydrogen peroxide as a cleaner for many things. It's not as allergenic as many of the "natural" cleaners and it's dirt cheap. It also kills a variety of germs. Vinegar is also fairly effective in some cases (not all). It's about a 5% acid (kills some germs) and is also a moderately good surfactant.

But keep in mind that plain old dish soap (the kind without all the added stuff) is an EXCELLANT surfactant. As is plain hand soap like Ivory for hand and skin cleansing. And they smell better than vinegar.

And I think this is all I have to say on the subject. I like a clean room as much as the next guest. If the state of the room was really, REALLY horrible (hasn't happened yet), I'd call housekeeping or ask for a cleaner room. I wouldn't waste vacation time by attempting to remedy the problem(s) myself.


DisFlan


Thanks for this info. I am already doing these things, so coming from a scientist, that works for me! We haven't started using Tea Tree Oil as I have a lot of allergies - thanks for that info. I am just starting to research it, and am finding conflicting info. We use vinegar most, but we may start using hydrogen peroxide - again, not sure about the allergenic properties of it, so haven't used it full strength yet.

We like the smell of vinegar, so it works for us and we use it on lightswitches, phones & remotes in hotels, as well as all around our home. Does anyone know what the deal is with vinegar on marble or granite? I can't find any of these warnings in my vinegar cleaning book.

Thanks for the discussion, Tiger :)

[Deb & Bill]

... Does anyone know what the deal is with vinegar on marble or granite? I can't find any of these warnings in my vinegar cleaning book.

Thanks for the discussion, Tiger :)

Just a guess here. Vinegar is acid. Those are all natural minerals. Acid will disolve minerals.

[Cruelladeville]

I clean the phone, remote, etc. when I check in, but I don't do the rest of it, as our environment is filled with bacteria, and as soon as you clean anything, it's always collecting new bacteria. Now, having said that, I still would use my Lysol wipes in a bathroom in a gas station, or wherever things don't get cleaned often. It's just a difference between being prudent, and being obsessive.:wizard:

[dianeschlicht]

Just a guess here. Vinegar is acid. Those are all natural minerals. Acid will disolve minerals.

Absoluely correct.

[DisFlan]

I clean the phone, remote, etc. when I check in, but I don't do the rest of it, as our environment is filled with bacteria, and as soon as you clean anything, it's always collecting new bacteria. Now, having said that, I still would use my Lysol wipes in a bathroom in a gas station, or wherever things don't get cleaned often. It's just a difference between being prudent, and being obsessive.:wizard:

I'll add one quick thing here. In public bathrooms, I'm assuming you're mainly talking about the toilet seat. Even in really scrungy bathrooms, the top of the toilet seat is the cleanest thing in a room. (Yup, after tons of testing, the top of the seat is cleaner than you would ever believe - very few harmful bugs. No one is sure why.) After all the attempts to install or use seat coverings and using sprays and wipes - they aren't really necessary. This is why many public restroom no longer supply seat covers. The handle on a shopping cart is much dirtier.

The floor around the base of the toilet - where many ladies put purses and parcels (and pulled-down pants) is the dirtiest area. But if wiping the seat makes you feel better (or "prudent"), go ahead. I simply keep my parcels and clothes up off the floor.

If the sink is a worry, use a paper towel to turn the faucet on and off, and wash hands as usual. No wipes are needed. If towels aren't available, squirt a bit of hand sanitizer on the faucet handle. It works better than a wipe. A good hand washing is better than just using the sanitizer.

I don't worry about this stuff in a villa - or about the remotes and switches, etc. And I've never had a problem, nor has my family. I spend my worry time on more important matters - like if Jiko lost my ADR or if Fantasmic is going to be rained out.

DisFlan

[keys2kingdom]

We are new to DVC and have had one stay at SSR. When we arrived, the room was not well cleaned, including lipstick and crust on the coffee mugs and food stuck in the microwave, and toothpaste "dots" on the mirrors.
ALso, the room was in need to rehab, so the carpet appeared dirty. We alerted management and they took care of it immediately and I was ok with it. Ok, because I moved on as it was my vacation. It did make me feel uncomfortable and yucky.

We are staying at OKW in a few days, and I am wondering if I should alert them to my feelings ahead of time; that I can't tolerate a dirty room and that a really worn room makes me feel like it is dirty. I am not expecting perfection, but do not want to stay in a room in need of rehab. I can remedy the housekeeping situation by cleaning it myself.

Any thoughts? Call or fax? Wait till check in?

Are you serious?? I think we all want a clean and newly refurbished room but specifically requesting it might as well be standing in the lobby shouting "I'm special!!" You are no more entitled to a newly refurbished unit than anyone else, it's the luck of the draw get over it.

[Alexander]

...snip...
I don't worry about this stuff in a villa - or about the remotes and switches, etc. And I've never had a problem, nor has my family. I spend my worry time on more important matters - like if Jiko lost my ADR or if Fantasmic is going to be rained out.

DisFlan

:thumbsup2 I'm right there with ya!

[OlderMan]

As an aside, my DD11 did a science fair project for school on: "What is the Effect on Plants of 'Environmentally Friendly' Cleaning Products."

She used a 10% solution of Seventh Generation brand laundry detergent, dish detergent and fabric softener mixed with 90% water.

Imagine our surprise when, after 3 days, ALL the plants receiving the laundry detergent and dish detergent solutions were wilted. After 6 days, those plants were all DEAD. (The plants receiving the fabric softener solution survived.)

A phone call to Seventh Generation and one of their chemists revealed that an ingredient in their detergents is SODIUM. So much for non-toxic and environmentally friendly!

FWIW.......

[Deb & Bill]

As an aside, my DD11 did a science fair project for school on: "What is the Effect on Plants of 'Environmentally Friendly' Cleaning Products."

She used a 10% solution of Seventh Generation brand laundry detergent, dish detergent and fabric softener mixed with 90% water.

Imagine our surprise when, after 3 days, ALL the plants receiving the laundry detergent and dish detergent solutions were wilted. After 6 days, those plants were all DEAD. (The plants receiving the fabric softener solution survived.)

A phone call to Seventh Generation and one of their chemists revealed that an ingredient in their detergents is SODIUM. So much for non-toxic and environmentally friendly!

FWIW.......

You have one great little scientist there, Olderman. You should be proud of her.

[OlderMan]

Thanks, Deb & Bill! We're VERY proud of her and her sister, too!

FWIW, for last year's science fair project she used "regular" laundry detergent, dish detergent and fabric softener solutions. ALL the plants receiving these solutions died.