Doctor Warns: Hotel Room Hotspot for Bed Bugs

Understanding the Hidden Dangers of Bed Bugs in Hotel Rooms

Imagine this: After a relaxing, hot shower in your hotel room, you slip into a soft, complimentary robe and settle down with a selection of snacks from the minibar. As you enjoy the quiet moment, you fall asleep—only to wake up the next morning with itchy, red bumps all over your arms and legs. You realize too late that the room was already occupied by something far more unsettling than just the previous guest. You’ve become a victim of bed bugs.

Bed bugs are a common nightmare for travelers, especially during peak travel seasons. While many people know to check the mattress for signs of infestation, a recent viral TikTok video has brought attention to another hidden danger: hotel dressers. This revelation is prompting travelers to rethink where they store their belongings when staying at hotels.

The Surprising Threat of Hotel Dressers

Dr. Jason Singh, a primary care physician, shared a warning on his TikTok account in June 2024 about how bed bugs can hide in unexpected places. He pointed out that while most people focus on checking the mattress, they often overlook the dresser. “Hotel dressers, especially those made of wood or with joints and crevices, are a risk for bed bug infestation,” he explained.

Dr. Singh emphasized that bed bugs aren’t just found in beds. They can also be present in furniture like dressers, which may not receive thorough cleaning between guests. The hinges, tracks, and drawers of these pieces can easily harbor bed bugs, putting your clothes and belongings at risk.

How to Protect Yourself from Bed Bugs

To avoid potential infestations, Dr. Singh recommends using the hotel closet or hanging spaces instead of unpacking into the dresser. “I recommend utilizing hotel closets or hanging spaces to store your clothes or just pulling your clothes straight out of your suitcase,” he said in the video.

Another expert, Anthony O’Neill, a pest control professional with over 20 years of experience, suggests storing luggage in the bathroom or shower. “Bed bugs cannot climb smooth surfaces, and you’d easily spot a bed bug in a light-colored bath,” he previously told Best Life.

Travelers Share Their Anti-Bed Bug Strategies

The TikTok video sparked a flurry of comments from users sharing their own methods for avoiding bed bugs. One retired pest control operator advised keeping the suitcase in the bathtub and retrieving only the necessary items. Another traveler mentioned using a trash bag for dirty clothes and washing them immediately after returning home.

Some users shared more extreme measures, such as never unpacking anything, even in luxury hotels. Others reported spraying alcohol on drawers and the bed each night to deter pests.

Why Bed Bugs Pose a Significant Risk

Although bed bugs do not transmit diseases, their bites can cause significant discomfort, including itching, skin irritation, and allergic reactions. If they hitch a ride back with you, they can lead to costly extermination efforts at home.

Nancy Troyano, PhD, a board-certified entomologist with Ehrlich Pest Control, explained that bed bugs prefer to hide close to their hosts. “They like to be near their food source, so they can sneak out at night and draw a blood meal without being noticed,” she said.

Final Tips for Safe Travel

To minimize the risk of encountering bed bugs, travelers should avoid wooden dressers, keep their luggage elevated, and consider placing it in the bathroom. It’s also wise to think twice before unpacking into any hidden crevices. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your travels with greater peace of mind and reduce the chances of bringing unwanted pests home with you.