When entering a hotel room, it’s tempting to set your bags down and start settling in. However, travel experts warn that this can increase the risk of bringing bedbugs home. The safest temporary spot for your luggage isn’t the bed, floor, or even a luggage rack—it’s the bathtub. Bedbugs are drawn to warm, fabric-covered areas, so placing your suitcase on a hard, smooth surface keeps it safe while you inspect the room.
Start by leaving your luggage in the bathroom and take a few minutes to examine the bedroom. Look closely at mattress seams, the headboard, and nearby furniture for dark spots, shed skins, or other signs of pests. Bathrooms rarely harbor bedbugs, making them a secure holding area while you assess the space.
Once the room seems clear, follow a simple routine to stay protected: keep clothing in sealed containers or bags, avoid using drawers, and keep your suitcase on a non-fabric surface. Before leaving, check your luggage again, and when you return home, run travel clothes through a hot dryer for at least 20 minutes to eliminate any potential hitchhikers.
Making these steps a standard part of your travel routine can save you from the stress and expense of a bedbug infestation. Using the bathtub as a temporary safe zone, keeping items organized, and staying mindful at check-in protects both your belongings and peace of mind during your trips.