There’s nothing like the thrill of walking into your hotel room and flopping onto the bed after a long trip. But before you sink into those crisp sheets, there’s one tiny thing you should do: Check for bed bugs. They’re the unwanted guests that can turn your relaxing vacation into a week of itching and paranoia. And they don’t just show up in cheap motels; even luxury hotels have had their share of infestations.
So, before you unpack your suitcase or toss your jacket on that inviting chair, take a few minutes to play detective and make sure your hotel room is bug-free.
Scan Before You Settle
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When you first walk into your room, pause for a moment and scan your surroundings. Set your luggage on a hard surface like a desk or a luggage rack.
Bed bugs are hitchhikers; they crawl into your belongings when given the chance. The moment your bag touches a potentially infested surface, it’s got a free ride home with you.
Now, take a slow look around. The telltale signs of bed bugs aren’t always obvious, but if you know what to look for, you can spot them. Start with the sheets and look for tiny rust-colored spots or small black dots along the edges. These are traces of dried blood or droppings.
Then, move on to the headboard and the creases where the mattress meets the frame. Bed bugs love tight, dark spaces where they can hide undisturbed. If anything looks suspicious, it’s worth investigating further.
The Hands-On Part Of The Check
Once you’ve done a quick scan, it’s time to get hands-on. Pull back the sheets and use your phone’s flashlight to check the seams. They’re small, about the size of an apple seed, and can vary in color from translucent white (if young) to reddish-brown (if well-fed). Even if you don’t see live bugs, look for shed skins or little black specks, which are other signs of their presence.
Next, check beyond the bed. Move to the upholstered furniture, the seams of chairs, and even behind picture frames. Bed bugs spread wherever humans spend time. If the hotel has carpet, take a look at the corners where it meets the wall. These insects are stealthy, and their hiding spots can surprise even the most seasoned traveler.
If you spot anything concerning, take photos immediately and contact the front desk. Politely request a room far from the original one since bed bugs can crawl through walls and ceilings. Most reputable hotels will act quickly once you report a problem.
A Little Effort Goes A Long Way
Bed bugs are one of those travel fears that people often dismiss. But the truth is, preventing a bed bug nightmare is all about awareness. A five-minute inspection before you unpack can save you hours of laundry later. You just have to be prepared. By taking a few simple steps, you can sleep soundly, knowing your only bed companions are your dreams.
