A TikTok user named Tara Woodcox has found herself in a controversy backlash after sharing what she called a hotel “life hack” that has left countless viewers repulsed. The video, originally posted in November but only recently gaining viral attention. It demonstrates an unsanitary practice involving hotel coffee makers that has now been covered by nearly every major news outlet.
In the controversial clip, Tara explains her method for cleaning undergarments while traveling. The technique involves placing underwear where coffee grounds normally go in a hotel room coffee maker, running the machine to push hot water through the garments, and then using the room’s hairdryer to dry them. She describes the method as “one of the coolest tricks ever” and claims to have learned it years ago from a flight attendant friend.
The response from viewers has been overwhelmingly negative. Comments flooded in calling the practice unsanitary and disgusting, with one user joking that “this has to be an arrestable offense.”
Others questioned whether the video was rage bait designed to provoke reactions. Many coffee drinkers expressed horror at the revelation, stating they would never use hotel coffee makers again.
What makes the situation more confusing is that Tara appears to contradict herself across different videos. In a 2023 post, she specifically warned viewers against using hotel coffee makers, explaining that she had been told people clean their underwear this way and that she personally never uses the machines for that very reason.
In the comments of her recent viral video, she continues to insist that she does not actually practice this method herself, claiming she was simply sharing information she learned from others.
Popular creator Brittany Elizabeth questioned why anyone would present something so clearly unsanitary as a helpful tip, while Saron Things declared that such behavior should be considered a biohazard.
Articles from 2024 and earlier warn travelers about people using hotel kettles and coffee makers to wash clothing items, confirming that this practice exists beyond Tara’s video. Flight attendants have reportedly cautioned guests about this for years.
The fallout has been significant. Many travelers now say they plan to bring their own portable coffee makers to hotels rather than risk using in-room machines.
It seems like Tara’s video has successfully convinced countless people to reconsider their hotel coffee habits forever.
