AAA

Inspected Clean is AAA’s cleanliness‑verification initiative introduced in 2020–2021 to provide an objective, scientific assessment of hotel sanitation. As part of every standard inspection, AAA inspectors conduct ATP surface testing in guest rooms & baths. ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is a molecule found in organic material such as bacteria, mold, and human cells. By swabbing high‑touch surfaces and measuring ATP levels, inspectors can determine whether those surfaces have been effectively cleaned. During an inspection, the AAA inspector swabs eight randomly selected high‑touch surfaces across different guest rooms and bathrooms. Commonly tested items include: Door handles Light switches Thermostat controls TV remotes Faucet handles Each swab is analyzed with a portable ATP testing device called a luminometer. Low ATP levels indicate a properly cleaned surface. High ATP levels suggest inadequate sanitation. To pass, at least 75% of tested surfaces must meet AAA’s cleanliness threshold. Properties that meet this standard earn the Inspected Clean designation in AAA’s listings. To date, more than 115,000 hotels have successfully passed inspections that include ATP surface testing.