If You See This Sticker on Your Hotel Mirror, Ask to Change Rooms

This article could make a huge difference to your safety and peace of mind, next time you check into a hotel room. 

You don’t need to panic, but you do need to know what to look for.

It’s a subtle sign that something might not be right with the room, and it usually goes unnoticed by most travelers.

That Tiny Sticker on Your Hotel Mirror? It Might Be More Than Just a Label

In recent years, viral stories and safety experts have warned about hotel rooms being used for surveillance, and not just in movies. 

One of the most common red flags involves a small sticker or label placed directly on or near the mirror.

Sometimes it’s a barcode, a serial number, or even a brand logo. 

But here’s what you need to check: Is it trying to cover a spot on the mirror? If the sticker looks oddly placed — especially off-center or near the corners — don’t ignore it.

In some reported cases, those stickers were used to mark two-way mirrors or spots where hidden cameras had been installed. 

Even if it’s not malicious, that sticker could signal a poorly covered repair, or worse, tampering.

How to Check If It’s a Two-Way Mirror

There’s a simple test anyone can do. 

Put your fingertip against the glass. If there’s a visible gap between your finger and its reflection, it’s a standard mirror.

If your finger touches itself directly with no gap — that’s a strong sign it could be a two-way mirror.

Hotels don’t often use these, but when they do, they should be clearly disclosed — and definitely not pointed at beds or bathrooms. 

If something feels off or the mirror looks strangely installed (framed into the wall, not hung), ask to change rooms immediately.

What to Do If You Feel Something’s Wrong

Don’t second-guess your gut. 

If you notice an odd sticker, can’t verify the mirror’s safety, or just feel uneasy, go to the front desk and ask for a new room — ideally on a different floor.

You can also request a manager to inspect the room with you. Most reputable hotels would rather move you than risk a serious complaint.

And yes, always inspect rooms the moment you walk in. Check mirrors, smoke detectors, vents, and any weird or blinking electronics.

Final Thought

Traveling should feel freeing, not suspicious. 

But staying aware of little signs — like a sticker on your hotel mirror — can help you avoid rare but real threats.

✈️ Share this with someone who travels solo, or someone booking a hotel soon. You could be the reason they stay a little safer next trip.