The 30-second habit that could save you from a sleepless night during your hotel stay

As weary travelers eagerly sink into the comfort of hotel beds, experts are issuing a vital caution against an impulsive act that could turn a night’s stay into a regrettable experience. While the allure of immediate relaxation is tempting, a swift and simple bed bug check is deemed essential to prevent potential sleep disruption.

In a recent revelation, hospitality experts are urging guests to conduct a brief bed bug inspection upon entering their hotel rooms. Contrary to common misconceptions associating bed bugs with uncleanliness, these unwanted bunkmates can be found in hotels of varying cleanliness levels.

HuffPost Senior Editor Caroline Bologna shared insights on the subject during HuffPost’s “Am I Doing It Wrong?” podcast, cautioning travelers based on experiences of friends encountering bed bugs in reputable New York hotels.

“I have two really good friends who have gotten bed bugs in New York [hotels] before. It doesn’t matter how nice the hotel is ― they’re not attracted to grime,” emphasized Bologna.

Bed bugs, about the size of an apple seed, tend to hide in upholstery, mattress seams, and cracks in furniture. In a swift and straightforward process, guests are advised to peel back corners of the bed, inspect mattress seams, and scrutinize any upholstered furniture.

“They like upholstery — just look at the sheets. Just peel back one of the corners of the bed, look at the seams of the mattress… just check. Check anything upholstered. Look at the headboard. Look at the chairs. If you don’t see anything, you’re probably totally fine,” shared Bologna.

Contrary to assumptions, bed bug infestations are not confined to unclean environments. A study by pest control company Orkin revealed that eight in 10 hotels faced bed bug issues within a single year. The pervasive nature of these critters extends beyond geographic boundaries, causing disruptions even in high-profile events like Paris Fashion Week.

To steer clear of potential bed bug encounters, guests are advised to place their suitcases on non-carpeted surfaces, such as bathtubs or wooden desks, minimizing contact with potential infestation spots.

In case of a bed bug discovery, prompt communication with the hotel’s management is crucial. However, guests are advised against merely switching to an adjacent room, as it may likely harbor the same issue.

As travel enthusiasts embark on their adventures, this 30-second precautionary habit could be the key to ensuring a sound and bug-free night’s sleep during hotel stays.