Hotels and Other Lodging Establishments

Why am I being warned about potential exposure to chemicals in hotels?

Some chemicals in hotels are on the Proposition 65 list because they can cause cancer and/or birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Proposition 65 requires businesses to determine if they must provide a warning about exposure to listed chemicals.

Hotels and other lodging establishments can expose you to chemicals on the Proposition 65 list.

HOTELS

Each hotel is different, and it is difficult to generalize about the kinds of chemical exposures that can occur at hotels. Many hotels likely do not cause chemical exposures that require a Proposition 65 warning.
When you check in at a hotel, look for a Proposition 65 warning sign at the hotel’s check-in desk, or a warning printed on the registration form. If a warning is present, it will likely contain the name of one or more chemicals, and will state how or where on the premises exposures to the chemical can occur. If you have any questions about the warning, ask hotel representatives.
General examples of chemicals you may be exposed to in hotels include:
- Tobacco smoke. Smoking may be permitted in some rooms and designated smoking areas in hotels.
- Certain foods and beverages sold or served in the hotels. These can include alcoholic beverages.
During pregnancy, substances such as alcoholic beverages and chemicals in tobacco smoke can pass from mother to baby.

How can I reduce my potential exposure to chemicals in hotels?

Ask hotel representatives if you have questions about any Proposition 65 warnings that you may see.
Choose hotels that are smoke-free. Avoid designated smoking areas in hotels.
Refer to the food and beverages fact sheet for information on listed chemicals in foods and beverages that may be served in hotels.

For more information:

General Fact Sheets and Resources

Proposition 65

California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA)
Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA)
- Proposition 65: Background
- Proposition 65: The List of Chemicals
- Proposition 65: Fact Sheets