As millions of Britons prepare for winter getaways, a leading mattress specialist has issued a stark warning about a simple luggage mistake that could see travellers bringing back more than just souvenirs – namely, a bedbug infestation.
The Rising Threat of Bedbugs
Recent reports indicate a significant surge in bedbug cases, with infestations having risen by a worrying 62%. Public concern is also spiking, as shown by Google search data. Searches for 'how to check for bedbugs' have rocketed by over 500% in the past month alone. This peak aligns with the winter festive travel season, a time when these pests commonly spread.
Sharon Robson, a mattress specialist at Mattress Online, explains the heightened risk. "Bedbugs thrive in areas with high foot traffic and favour warm, humid conditions," she states. "This means there's a higher chance of returning from warmer climates with bed bugs. From hotels and holiday rentals to public transport, it's crucial to know how to spot a potential infestation."
Your First Line of Defence: Choosing the Right Luggage
Robson's primary advice is surprisingly straightforward: invest in hard-shell suitcases. She cautions that soft-sided luggage, with its many folds and fabric surfaces, offers numerous hidden spots for bedbugs to nest. This dramatically increases the risk of unknowingly transporting them home.
"Bedbugs prefer rough or porous surfaces," Robson notes. "The sleek, solid exterior of hard-shell luggage presents a challenging terrain for them to latch onto." This type of case is not only more resistant to pests but is also far easier to inspect and disinfect thoroughly upon return, making it a wise investment for the wary traveller.
Essential Steps During Your Stay
Upon arrival at your accommodation, resist the urge to unpack immediately. Instead, elevate your luggage away from carpets and walls. Use a provided metal luggage rack or place your suitcase on a hard surface like a table or desk. Never place your luggage on the bed before conducting a quick inspection.
Robson advises guests to be vigilant for early warning signs. These include a sweet, musty odour, which can indicate a large infestation. Also, look for black or rust-coloured stains on bedding and mattresses, which are faecal spots. Keep an eye out for the bugs themselves, which may appear as flat, oval brown shapes or empty brown shells (shed skins).
The Credit Card Inspection Trick
For a more thorough check, employ the credit card trick. Bedbugs excel at hiding in tight spaces. Use a credit card to scrape along mattress seams, labels, tufts, and bedframe corners. The action can dislodge tiny eggs or bugs, revealing an infestation you might otherwise miss.
The Crucial Post-Holiday Routine
If you have any concerns about exposure, your actions upon returning home are critical. Unpack directly into your washing machine, placing your suitcase on a hard floor in a bathroom or laundry room. Wash all clothing, even unworn items, on a hot cycle and dry on high heat for 30-60 minutes. This intense heat is proven to kill any live bugs or eggs that may have hitched a ride.
By following this expert guidance, UK travellers can significantly reduce their risk of turning a winter holiday into a nightmare scenario, ensuring the only things they bring home are happy memories.
