There’s nothing more horrifying than waking up in your hotel room the next morning only to find out bedbugs feasted on your blood throughout the night.
The good news is – with a few simple tips you can make sure those little blood-sucking creatures stay far away from you.
So when it comes to ensuring your hotel room is in the clear – we’ve got you covered. Check out these tips below.
Check Beforehand
Did you know you can actually check for bedbugs before you even get to your hotel?
Thanks to other travelers sharing their experiences, there are actual bedbug registries that warn others about bedbug infested hotels.
You can start here with the bedbug registry and search for the exact hotel you’ll be staying at.
The bedbug registry also alerts you of any “hot” areas so you’ll know what places to stay clear of.
Do A Thorough Search Of Your Bed
As soon as you get the key to your room – before you unpack anything – put your luggage on a luggage rack (do not put your luggage on the floor) or in the bathroom and check your bed.
If you notice tiny blood stains, or black smears – it is likely that bedbugs are present.
Check especially around the seam and along the headboard and look for casings.
Don’t forget to check under the mattress – with a flashlight if you can.
Check Nearby Surroundings
Bedbugs love upholstery – so don’t forget to check the couches and chairs – and yes – even the drapes!
These annoying creatures are also found in nightstands – and even hiding out in the hanging pictures on the wall.
If you can move the picture – be sure to check behind it.
All Clear?
If you’ve done a thorough search of your room and are confident there are no bedbugs – it’s still wise to exercise precaution.
Instead of unpacking everything and spreading it out all over your hotel room, keep your items in your suitcase and keep your suitcase zipped up as much as possible.
Some travelers even bring a garbage bag to put their suitcase in while in the hotel.
It’s better to be safe than sorry.
So What If You Find Them?
Move!
Immediately.
Do not wait until tomorrow – or wait to see if you “feel anything” during the night before you make your decision.
And when you move hotel rooms, don’t just move to the room next door – because bedbugs can crawl through outlets and make their way into adjoining rooms.
When you contact the front desk, insist you move at least 2 floors up – or even to another hotel altogether.
Bedbugs are not only annoying – they are destructive – and if they make their way into your suitcase and come home with you, they can end up infesting your entire house.
Trust me – you don’t want that problem.
So next time you check in to your hotel room – take a few moments and search your room – you’ll be happy you invested the time upfront – instead of dealing with a disaster on the backend.
Have you ever found bedbugs in your hotel room?
Do you feel confident after reading this article to spot bedbugs on your next trip?
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