Honestly, hostels are not what they used to be. I of course expected groups of high school groups and college kids traveling around to be staying there, but due to the housing crisis in Dublin, hostels have become a place for the homeless population to reside. The staff tries to avoid that, but there are workarounds, as I’ve been told by some of the homeless residents. In the room, people were smoking out the tiny balcony window/door and all the smoke was coming inside. I was up coughing all night. That is probably more of a unique circumstance, but wanted to share my experience. Besides that, there is a lot of theft and random people sneaking into the hostel, despite there being security. Just a few things to keep in mind depending on the type of person you are.
The staff were absolutely wonderful though. Truly understanding and kind. If backpacking around and need a place to crash, of course would still recommend, but just keep your wits about you and be careful where you put your stuff and who is around you at all times.