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$22.99 (as of September 18, 2024 12:33 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Traveling is all about creating fond memories and exploring new places, but nothing can put a damper on your trip faster than discovering uninvited guests in your hotel room. In “An Expert’s Guide to Identifying Uninvited Guests in Your Hotel Room,” you’ll find invaluable insights from John Harvey, commercial sales division manager at Truly Nolen Pest Control, on how to check for bed bugs and roaches before settling in. From inspecting your room meticulously to protecting your luggage and clothes, Harvey offers practical steps to ensure you leave pests behind and bring home only the good memories.
An Expert’s Guide to Identifying Uninvited Guests in Your Hotel Room
Have you ever wondered if your hotel room has any unwelcome visitors lurking around? Souvenirs, photos, and happy memories are the highlights of any trip, but unfortunately, pests such as bed bugs and roaches can sometimes hitch a ride back home with you. In fact, a 2024 Sleep Doctor survey revealed that one in seven U.S. travelers had encountered bed bugs during a trip. To help you avoid these pesky companions, we reached out to John Harvey, the commercial sales division manager at Truly Nolen Pest Control, for expert advice on how to inspect your hotel room for these unwanted guests.
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Pre-Arrival Preparations
Do Your Homework
Before even stepping foot in your hotel or vacation rental, it’s important to do a bit of research. According to Harvey, starting your pest inspection begins before you even check-in.
- Read Reviews: Look at recent reviews on travel websites like TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Google. Focus on any mentions of bed bugs or roaches.
- Check the National Bed Bug Registry: If you’re traveling within the U.S. or Canada, this tool can offer some additional insights.
Even the most reputable five-star hotels are not immune to infestations, and sometimes they aren’t promptly noted online, especially if the issue is new or isolated.
Initial Inspection Upon Arrival
Once you’ve checked in, it’s time for a thorough room inspection before settling in. Here’s what you need to look for:
Bed Area Scan
Inspect the Bed and Mattress
The bed is usually the first area to inspect and for a good reason—bed bugs love to hide here. Follow these steps:
- Peel Off Bedding: Remove the sheets and inspect the mattress and box spring.
- Look for Rust-Colored Stains or Black Dots: These could be evidence of bed bugs.
Check Surrounding Furniture
Bed bugs can also lurk near the bed in places like:
- Headboard
- Nightstands
- Other Soft Furniture
It’s essential to cover all these grounds to ensure you’re thorough.
Use a Flashlight
To get a clearer view of hard-to-see areas:
- Inspect Wall Hangings: Shine a flashlight behind wall hangings and pictures. These dark and narrow spaces can be perfect hiding spots.
Roach Inspection
Roaches can be just as unpleasant as bed bugs. Here’s how to look for them:
Check for Roach Droppings
Roach droppings look like black dirt or ground coffee. Look in:
- Corners of the Room
- Under Sinks
- In Drawers
Look for Egg Casings
Roach egg casings are often found in:
- Behind Furniture
- Under Appliances
- In Cabinets
What To Do If You Find Bugs
If you do come across any evidence of bed bugs or roaches, act immediately:
- Take Photos: Document the evidence.
- Notify Hotel Staff: Report the issue to the front desk and request a new room.
- Avoid Adjacent Rooms: Ensure the new room is not adjacent to the infested one. If moving is not an option, consider changing accommodations entirely.
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Additional Tips for Protecting Yourself from Pests
Even if your initial inspection didn’t reveal any pests, it’s prudent to take extra precautions:
Luggage and Personal Belongings
Keep Your Luggage Elevated
Keeping your luggage off the floor and bed minimizes the risk of bringing pests home:
- Use Luggage Racks: Place your suitcase on a luggage rack or a hard surface like a desk or dresser.
- Avoid the Floor: Do not place your bags on the floor.
Manage Your Clothing
Bug-proofing your clothes is equally important:
- Keep Clothes in the Suitcase: Avoid spreading your clothes around the room.
- Hang Them Up: Use the hotel room’s closet or wardrobe.
Heading Home
As your trip ends, don’t let your guard down. Ensure you don’t bring any uninvited guests back with you:
Inspect and Clean Luggage
- Inspect for Signs of Pests: Look for droppings, egg casings, or any other evidence.
- Vacuum Your Luggage: Clean the inside and pockets thoroughly upon returning.
Clean Your Belongings
Washing and drying your clothes properly can kill any lingering pests:
- Wash All Clothing in Hot Water: Hot water and high heat are effective.
- Dry on High Heat: Ensure complete extermination by using high-heat settings.
Protective Covers for Your Bed at Home
If you’re still worried about bringing pests home, John Harvey recommends:
- Use Protective Bed Covers: These make it easier to spot bed bugs and discourage them from settling in.
By taking these proactive steps, you can enjoy your travels without the stress of dealing with unwanted guests long after your trip has ended.
Summary Checklist for Quick Reference
Here’s a quick reference checklist to make sure you’re covering all the bases:
| Inspection Area | What To Look For | Precautions |
|---|---|---|
| Before Arrival | Recent reviews, National Bed Bug Registry | Research online |
| Upon Arrival | Rusty stains, black dots, droppings, egg casings | Inspect beds, furniture, and dark crevices |
| Luggage | Keep off the floor and bed | Use luggage racks, hard surfaces |
| Clothing | No clothes on the floor or bed | Keep in suitcase, hang up |
| Departure | Check for pests in luggage | Inspect and vacuum luggage |
| Arriving Home | Wash clothing, vacuum luggage | Use high-heat settings, protective bed covers |
By following this guide and keeping a close eye out for the telltale signs of pests, you should be able to enjoy your travels without that icky feeling of bringing home more than just memories and souvenirs. Safe travels!
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