Do you tip bathroom attendants?
This topic may be somewhat city-centric; I don't see many bathroom attendants when I go visit my parents in Maine. But hopefully most of you have encountered the ladies of the night to whom I refer: They occupy the powder rooms of certain restaurants and nightclubs, primarily to help keep the facilities looking as presentable as the rest of the establishment. However, many take their role to the next level, hovering eagerly to hand you a paper towel, or even setting up elaborate displays of trial-size toiletries that you're encouraged to use. But there's a catch.
If you help yourself to a spritz of hairspray or accept the paper towel (often the towel dispenser is empty, so you have to), it's customary to compensate the bathroom attendant by leaving a tip in her basket, which is displayed prominently amidst the sinks, with bills artfully dangled around its perimeter. Even if you don't take the towel or use the beauty products, there's guilt involved in exiting the bathroom without leaving any cash behind.
My friends and I have long debated this topic. Personally, I leave a dollar on my first visit to the facilities and let that be my contribution for the night. I do not use the trial-size products and make every attempt to dispense my own towel. That's my way of showing that I dislike the concept of a for-tips bathroom attendant on principle. However, I leave the cash because I can't blame the attendant herself for trying to make a living.
That said, I have many, many friends who refuse to tip on principle, asking, "Why should I have to pay to pee? I'm paying enough for my meal/drinks as is." Valid point. The worst is when the bathroom is a total mess and the attendant is just idly sitting there next to a big basket; that's when I snap my wallet shut.
I think it's time for an official Glamour poll on this topic. What's your bathroom-tipping policy? Let us know below, then let's discuss in the comments.
Related: Strange habits and other thoughts women have about going to the bathroom.
image via flickr.com
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