Viral Reddit Video Shows Mumbai Hotel Charging Rs 2500 For Coffee Stains On Linen
Mumbai, 27th December 2024: A viral video on Reddit shows hotel staff requesting payment of “Rs 2500 plus taxes” from a guest for coffee stains on a linen sheet and a pillow. The clip, posted by Redditor @EnlightendSatan, shows the guest negotiating with the hotel staff, who argue that the stains cannot be removed and the guest must cover the cost of the damaged linen. The guest, however, suggests attempting to clean the stains or offering to handle the cleaning personally and return the items.
The argument also revolves around the extent of the damage, with the guest claiming it was just a few drops of coffee, while the staff insists the spillage was more significant.
“I spilt coffee on linen, and they’re charging me 2500+taxes, claiming it’s damage to property at @IHG hotel. What should I do?” the guest wrote in the post.
The situation sparked debate online, with some people agreeing it was “damage” to the property, while others claimed hotels typically don’t impose such charges.
“I’ve spilt coffee a few times and never been charged,” a Redditor commented.
Another shared, “Good 4-star hotels let it go. The customer is more important than a bedsheet or cushion cover.”
One user recounted being fined in a hotel for ruining a napkin.
A Redditor who identifies as a hotelier responded, saying, “There’s more to this than what the OP is describing. Most 3-4-star or even 5-star hotels don’t penalize guests for minor damages like this, as room revenue covers such costs. Linens go through their life cycle regularly, and hotels usually have a bulk supply. There may be a history with this hotel.”
In contrast, another Redditor shared their experience at a Taj hotel, where they dropped tea on the linen, and the staff simply replaced it without charging.
One user argued, “This is considered property damage. I’m sure their Terms and Conditions include a clause about paying for any damage, especially in a proper hotel and not a guest house or lodge.”
