Hotel from 'safe list' turned out moldy - room variance?

Posted by J.O. · 7/27/2026

We just did the Hilton Resorts World Las Vegas from the safe list and it was moldy. This is the 3rd hotel we've tried from the safe list and I'm wondering if we are far more sensitive than the average person in the group or if it's that things can change so fast at these places (please don't take this as criticism, I am very grateful for this group). I wonder if from now on I only try new builds, if possible. Curious if anyone else has experience with this. Thank you!

12 comments

Member · 7/27/2026
I will ask to see the available rooms to make sure they are clean enough for me. Some rooms are better than others.
Member · 7/28/2026
Even new builds can have and do have mold…
Member · 7/28/2026
There is also the fact of each room is a whole different situation from others. Maybe they stayed in a different room with no issues. Maybe your room has worse ventilation in bathroom and had a leak etc. I just stay in as new a build as possible is my strategy.
Member · 7/28/2026
I only do new builds or airbnbs with a lot of recent reviews and a promise from the owner (which is only if I can’t find a new hotel). I figure it’s a matter of time if there’s HVAC/mini splits and eventually someone floods the carpet with the shower? I assume list recs are good if they are < 3 months.
Member · 7/28/2026
Lately I am fine in many new hotels that due to their shower construction (new showers are terrible) I know wont be ok in 3-5 years.
Member · 7/28/2026
It might not be a bad ideat to time stamp the rec (if it is not already done so!)
Member · 7/28/2026
It is could be a combo, but if it’s not the exact room number the other traveler stayed in, this could just be a fluctuation in rooms. One room on the other side of the building on floor 1 could differ greatly from floor 8. When I travel, I look at the list and then pick the newest build from the list so I have the highest probability of success. think there are a ton of options in Las Vegas if I remember correctly so you should be able to find a newer option.
Member · 7/28/2026
Only new builds for me. Period.
Member · 7/28/2026
Mold happens very fast. From the time this was posted on the list, it could be moldy within 24 hours if the hotel doesn’t properly maintain.
Member · 7/28/2026
Interesting, we stayed there in May and there was no mold in our room. They use a lot of fragrance in their hotel though, in the lobby and in the hallways
Member · 7/28/2026
In addition to what others shared here, I have found that hotels can go bad very quickly. When you consider that mold can start growing in 24-48 hours it explains how one month can make a big difference.
Member · 7/28/2026
I think it may be a combination of both. I think some people are severely sensitive to mold, like me where I would have to leave and others who may not even notice if it’s not visible.