Buzz
Bed bugs can be a serious issue, so it’s crucial to know how to thoroughly check your hotel room before settling down for the night. This guide will show you the best methods to ensure a peaceful sleep, free from these pests, while traveling.
Don’t make the common mistake of placing your belongings on the luggage rack as soon as you enter the room. Many suggest it as an alternative to putting your things on the bed, but the video from the University of Maine’s YouTube channel recommends placing your items in the bathroom or bathtub instead. The luggage rack is often too close to the bed, and since bed bugs usually stay within 20 feet of their host, if they’re present in your room, they’re likely on the luggage rack too.
After securing your belongings in the bathroom, grab a flashlight (even your phone’s flashlight will work) and inspect the headboard for any signs of bed bugs. If possible, move the headboard slightly; if it's fixed to the wall, focus on checking around the edges and near the floor. Next, lift the sheets and examine the mattress, especially where the top and bottom piping meet. This is a prime hiding spot. Don’t forget to check under the mattress where it touches the bed frame or box spring. Finally, inspect the mattress pad for any blood stains that might have been missed under the sheets.
Next, examine the nightstand beside the bed. Open the drawer and inspect the trim and joints, which are often overlooked but can be a great hiding place for bed bugs. Don’t forget to check the luggage rack again; its flexible fabric offers enough hiding space for these pests. The full video goes over all these steps in detail, and it includes closed captioning if you prefer to watch without sound.
It may take some time and effort, but performing a thorough check when you enter your hotel room will ensure you don’t unknowingly bring bed bugs back with you after a business trip or enjoyable vacation. Remember, bed bugs are incredibly mobile and can hide anywhere—whether in luxurious hotels or budget-friendly hostels—so no place is guaranteed to be free of them. Always inspect your room.
Special thanks to Dan for the helpful tip!
