1. Inspect the Mattresses
The first place to inspect for bed bugs is the mattresses. Inspect the seams, piping, buttons, and tags for bed bug signs. Look for bed bugs, white or translucent eggs, or dark fecal spots around these areas. You may also use a flashlight to thoroughly check every corner of the mattress. Bed bugs are nocturnal and mostly active at night, so a flashlight will help you identify them.
2. Check Headboards, Bed Frames, and Box Springs
Bed bugs do not just stay on the mattress, they also hide behind headboards, bed frames, and box springs. Examine carefully for any signs of bed bugs that you may find on the crevices. You may also inspect the corners of the headboard, bed frame, and box spring, they are hidden spots where bed bugs love to hide.
3. Inspect the Sofas and Cushions
It is not only beds in hotel rooms that bed bugs infest, but they can also be found on your sofa. If there’s a sofa bed in your room or you’re staying in an Airbnb or a friend’s couch, make sure to check the seating areas and cushions for bed bugs.
4. Check Your Luggage
If you were staying on a bed bug-infested room, bed bugs might find their way into your belongings. A good way to check your luggage is to place it in the bathtub and check the seams, folds, and zippers for any bed bug signs. If you find anything, seal your luggage and wash all your clothes and dryer at the highest possible temperature.
5. Call Pest Control if Necessary
If you find any bed bugs in your hotel room or Airbnb, immediately report it to the staff or owner. They should take the necessary steps to exterminate or relocate you. Additionally, it is a good idea to call a pest control company to perform a thorough inspection of your luggage and any of your belongings to prevent the infestation from spreading to your home.
By following the above tips, you can protect yourself from bed bug infestations while traveling and avoid bringing them into your home. Remember, bed bugs are hitchhikers and can become your unwanted souvenir. It is important to be vigilant, inspect any lodging thoroughly, and take the necessary precautions to avoid bed bug bites. If you end up discovering any bed bug activity in your accommodation, do not hesitate to notify the management immediately and call a pest control service right away. Sweet dreams!
