How long does a hotel hold forgotten items?
Most hotels keep forgotten items in lost and found for roughly 30 to 90 days, and often longer for valuables like jewelry, passports, electronics and cash. After that, items are typically donated, discarded or sometimes given to the employee who found them. There's no single rule — it depends on the hotel's policy and local law — so call as soon as you notice something is missing.
What usually happens
- Housekeeping logs the item with the room number and date, and it goes to the front desk or security.
- Valuables are kept in a safe and held longest.
- Perishables and toiletries — food, opened cosmetics — are usually thrown away right away.
- Unclaimed items are eventually donated or disposed of.
How to get your item back
- Call the hotel directly (not a booking site) and ask for lost and found or housekeeping.
- Give details: your name, room number, dates and a clear description of the item.
- Ask about shipping. Many hotels will mail the item back if you pay postage, often through a prepaid label or card charge.
- Follow up in writing by email so there's a record.
- For a passport or ID, also contact the issuing authority if it isn't found quickly.
FAQ
Do hotels send back forgotten items?
Most do, but usually at your expense. Some ask you to arrange a courier pickup or provide a prepaid label.
Do hotels throw away forgotten items?
Perishables and toiletries, yes. Other items are generally held for a period first and then donated or discarded.
Are hotels liable for items left behind?
Generally only to a limited extent. Many places have laws that cap a hotel's liability for guests' property, especially if the hotel offered a safe. Rules vary by state and country.
Can a hotel keep my belongings?
In some places a hotel can hold a guest's property if the bill isn't paid. Otherwise, items left behind still belong to you while the hotel holds them.