Why Bottles of Shampoo Have Disappeared from Expensive Hotels 0 9

Ban on Mini Shampoos in the EU: The European Union is preparing significant changes to the rules regarding single-use packaging. These changes will affect the hotel sector, and popular mini-shampoos may disappear as early as the next decade.

European authorities are promoting a new regulation aimed at reducing packaging waste.

The EU Regulation 2025/40 provides for the abandonment of certain single-use formats in hotels. Furthermore, the document will be implemented gradually, but key deadlines have already been set. Starting January 1, 2030, hotels will no longer be able to provide cosmetics in small packages that are typically discarded between guest stays.

Thus, the EU aims to standardize requirements and move towards a circular economy model. In particular, the European Commission must clarify by February 2027 which specific products will be banned. This is important because the list in the document's appendix includes not only mini-shampoos but also other small personal care items.

What Will Disappear from Rooms

Appendix V lists familiar items:

• shampoo bottles;

• body lotion bottles;

• soap packaging.

These items are classified as single-use and intended for one stay. As a result, they will be the first to become illegal.

At the same time, many tourists are accustomed to taking such items with them. According to Expedia, 81% of guests have taken items from their rooms at least once. More than half of respondents preferred the cosmetics that are now proposed to be banned.

Why Hotels Rarely Respond to Missing Items

Legally, all items in the room are considered the property of the hotel. However, as industry representatives note, hotels typically account for such minor losses in their expenses.

Moreover, cases of miniature cosmetics going missing do not lead to conflicts because the cost of small bottles is low.

Nevertheless, industry associations emphasize that the new rules will affect not only bathrooms but also breakfast areas.

Despite the resonance, experts do not expect drastic changes. Many large chains began transitioning to stationary dispensers several years ago. For example, Hyatt, Marriott, and InterContinental have eliminated small bottles in favor of larger fixed containers for soap and gel. These solutions help reduce waste and simplify room service.

Thus, if the EU limits only portable packaging, a significant portion of hotels will already be prepared for the new regulations. This means that the transition will be smooth and without serious losses for the business.

In the coming years, mini-shampoos may disappear from standard amenity kits. However, hotels will be required to provide alternatives in a convenient format.

Therefore, travelers need not worry about comfort. Additionally, dispensers with pumps are increasingly found to be more convenient and safer for everyday use.