The CANAL LOFT HOTEL, located at 94 Canal St in the heart of CHINATOWN, NEW YORK, markets itself as an affordable BUDGET HOTEL option. Unfortunately, recent guest experiences reveal severe lapses in HOTEL HYGIENE and CUSTOMER SERVICE that turn a simple stay into a TRAVEL SCAM ordeal rather than a convenient urban stopover.
Location and accessibility
Situated steps from popular subway lines, the hotel’s address promises quick access to Manhattan’s key attractions. However, the cleanliness of the surrounding streets and the general upkeep of the building’s exterior leave much to be desired for travellers expecting the vibrancy of lower Manhattan.
Accommodations and cleanliness
Multiple visitors report DIRTY LINEN and stained towels upon check-in, with housekeepers failing to change bedding for days—even during extended stays. One guest discovered soiled sheets “with hairs and stains,” and another was forced to reuse “clean” towels that remained visibly unclean. Broken fixtures, such as a continuously running toilet cistern, compound the disappointment. The lack of daily housekeeping and proper HOUSEKEEPING oversight makes hygiene a non-negotiable red flag.
Customer service
Attempts to secure a REFUND through BOOKING have been met with stonewalling and rudeness. Reports describe a receptionist/manager who appears insolent, refusing to address legitimate complaints or return deposits. Guests mention a withheld security deposit of USD 100 and unexpected charges of up to USD 1,700 on personal cards after departure—an alarming pattern that suggests misuse of guest data.
Pros
• Conveniently located near subway stations and 24-hour stores
• Simple rooms adequate only for basic rest and shower needs
• 24-hour front desk service
Cons
• Repeated reports of DIRTY LINEN, stained towels, and unclean rooms
• Housekeeping only once per week during extended stays
• Managerial staff described as insolent and uncooperative
• Unauthorised charges on guest cards post-checkout, up to USD 1,700
• Cancellation of reservations at the last minute for profit
Some online comments
Comment: The sheets and towels were visibly stained and unclean, which shows a serious neglect of basic hygiene standards.
Comment: Housekeeping failed to clean our room during a five-day stay, leaving us feeling unwelcome and unsanitary.
Comment: The receptionist was rude and dismissive when we asked for fresh linens and a refund, making the entire experience uncomfortable.
Comment: We were charged $100 deposit that was never returned, and saw later attempts to bill $1,700 on our card after checkout.
Comment: Last-minute reservation cancellations and inflated rebookings suggest the hotel prioritizes profit over guest trust.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Canal Loft Hotel’s persistent hygiene failures, uncooperative staff, and dubious billing practices far outweigh any benefit of its low rates or central location. Multiple reports of stained linens, neglected housekeeping, last-minute reservation cancellations, and unauthorized charges demonstrate a fundamental lack of respect for guests. Travelers seeking a clean, reliable stay in New York should avoid this property and choose accommodations with transparent policies and proven service standards.