Hotels may look glamorous on the outside, but behind the scenes, the reality can be unsettling. Former staff members revealed shocking secrets that might make you think twice during your next stay. From fake “saffron sauces” made with food coloring to mislabeled cheap fish passed off as sea bass, even luxury buffets aren’t always what they seem.

One of the biggest shocks? Those tiny complimentary shampoo bottles. According to a worker, they’re often refilled from old bulk containers rather than replaced. Many of those containers sit in storage well past their expiration dates before being poured back into “sealed” bottles and left for new guests.

Other unsettling confessions included the truth about hotel cleanliness. Some housekeepers admitted to using the same rag from toilet to sink to shower across multiple rooms. Pillows are rarely washed—only the pillowcases are replaced—and many hotel rooms reuse them for months, even years. Sheets get changed, but comforters and blankets are usually only swapped if there’s a stain.

Still, not all secrets are bad. Some workers shared tips: kindly ask for discounts or free upgrades, whisper “bedbugs” discreetly for a better room, or request a handicap-accessible room if you want a much bigger bathroom. These insider revelations prove that while hotels may hide some questionable practices, knowing a few tricks can make your stay much safer—and maybe even more comfortable.