A travel expert has warned holidaymakers to avoid free toiletries they find in hotels and holiday rentals.

Travel agent Hannah Westphal said that her previous role as holiday rental manager has put her off using some of the freebies made available in many accommodations for tourists.

The owner of byHannah Vacations said: “I have to admit, I would never use those refillable shampoo and conditioner bottles in the shower.

“It’s a bit off-putting not knowing exactly what’s in those dispensers. There’s always the worry someone might have refilled them with something… and believe me, I’ve seen hair removal creams and God knows what else.”

Ms Westphal says toiletries with a security lock that can only be opened by hotel staff are safe to use, as it means rude guests can’t tamper with them.

Nevertheless, the travel expert’s advice remains to err on the side of caution and always travel prepared.

She said: “It might be wise might be wise to bring your own miniature toiletries, like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, for your trip.”

On those who forget to bring their own toiletries, the expert continued, you can “head to reception and enquire about any spare ones they might have”.

A major no-no when it comes to hotel etiquette is to take what’s needed from the supply cart that can sometimes be found in the hallways of accommodations without asking the staff for permission.

Patricia Rossi, author of Everyday Etiquette, previously told the Huffington Post: “Don’t raid the hotel housekeeping supply cart. Ask for what you need, so supplies don’t mysteriously come up short during the housekeeping shift.”

Laura Itzkowitz, travel writer and hotel expert, urged people to be considerate of the housekeeping staff.

While a hotel may feel like a house and allow people to relax, guests shouldn’t wear out their welcome by trashing their rooms or making it more difficult to clean them.

She told Reader’s Digest: “Try to be considerate of the housekeeping staff. They’re the most invisible staff members, they earn the least and they sometimes have a limited amount of time to clean a large number of rooms.”