How to Improve Your Hotel’s Online Reviews with Better Amenities

Online reviews are the lifeblood of the modern hotel business. Before booking, most travellers check reviews on Booking.com, Agoda, TripAdvisor, or Google. A few extra stars can mean the difference between a fully booked property and empty rooms. One of the fastest and most cost-effective ways to improve your review scores is upgrading your amenities.

The Review-Amenity Connection

Bathroom amenities are mentioned in hotel reviews far more often than most hoteliers realise. Guests notice quality: both good and bad. Phrases like “loved the toiletries” and “amazing bathroom products” appear in positive reviews, while “cheap soap” and “terrible shampoo” show up in negative ones.

The bathroom is often the first place a guest visits after check-in. First impressions are formed in seconds, and quality amenities create an immediate positive impression that colours the entire stay.

Step 1: Audit Your Current Amenities

Before making changes, assess what you currently offer. Ask yourself:

• Are your toiletries branded or generic?
• Do they look and feel premium, or cheap?
• Is the packaging attractive and consistent?
• Are you providing all the basics (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, soap)?
• Are dental kits, vanity kits, and shower caps included?

Step 2: Choose the Right Upgrade Level

Match your amenity level to your hotel’s positioning:

• If you are using generic, unbranded products: Switch to a quality mid-range brand like Hydro Basics or Natural Remedies. This is the single biggest upgrade you can make for the least cost.
• If you are already using a mid-range brand: Consider upgrading premium rooms to a recognised luxury brand like Molton Brown or Rituals.
• If you are a luxury property: Ensure you are using top-tier brands (Bvlgari, Lalique, Chopard, Asprey) consistently across all premium rooms.

Step 3: Improve Presentation

How amenities are presented matters almost as much as what they are. Neatly arrange products on a tray or shelf. Ensure labels face forward. Keep surfaces clean and uncluttered. Consider adding a small card explaining the brand or your sustainability commitment.

Step 4: Monitor the Impact

After upgrading, track your reviews. Look for mentions of amenities, bathroom, or toiletries. Most review platforms allow you to search within your property’s reviews. Over 2-3 months, you should see a measurable improvement in mentions and overall scores.