Always Do This First When You Step Into a Hotel Room

Make a mental note to follow this safety hack every time you first enter a hotel room and you might save yourself a massive headache at some point.

The Threat of Bed Bugs is Real

When you are traveling, experts say bed bugs can be an issue in any hotel room, no matter how expensive the rooms may be. And it doesn’t matter where you travel, either.

You would think that you have a much higher chance of encountering bed bugs in some roadside hotel or motel, but, the truth is, you can find them in any hotel.

Do you stand a better chance in a cheap motel? Perhaps, says Jeff White, from pest control manufacturer SenSci.

“Roadside hotels and motels where you have a higher incidence of extended-stay residents anecdotally can have a higher incidence of issues compared to some of your higher-end hotels, but honestly, it can all vary dramatically from property to property.”

 

What is the Hotel Room Bed Bug Safety Hack?

Put all your luggage in the bathroom, immediately. The bathroom tub is the safest place. Bathrooms don't offer the kind of hiding places bed bugs prefer and they are cleaned in between guests, according to Reader's Digest. It is a good practice to never put your luggage on the hotel beds.

Check the Bed First

Using a flashlight and a plastic card or credit card, do a bed check, pulling out the corners and sides of the sheets, blankets, comforters, pillows, and the box spring.

What Are You Looking For?

I know it sounds gross, but you should be looking for anything resembling clusters of white rice. Check for small stains, spots, or droppings.

Where Else Should You Look?

Check the entire room, including closets, drawers, headboards, couches, and chairs. The better the inspection you do, the better peace of mind you will have while staying in the room.