British tourists returning from summer holidays are being urged to avoid unpacking their luggage in the bedroom, according to mattress experts at MattressNextDay. The warning comes as bed bug infestations continue to pose a risk for travellers.
Martin Seeley, CEO and mattress expert, advises unpacking on a hard floor rather than in the bedroom. 'When you get home, unpack your luggage in another location apart from your bedroom. Even better if it's on hard flooring, as you won't be able to spot bed bugs on a carpet,' he said. He also recommends inspecting suitcases closely with a torch, checking seams, folds and pockets.
Seeley further suggests vacuum cleaning the suitcase before storing it. Bed bugs can hide in luggage and then move to beds, curtains or other soft furnishings, potentially causing an infestation.
Travellers are also cautioned against placing suitcases on hotel beds upon arrival. 'By doing this, you're putting your luggage and clothes right onto the place where bed bugs are commonly found and giving them a free ticket home,' Seeley warned. Instead, suitcases should be stored near the hotel room door or on a luggage rack.
To reduce risk, tourists are advised to bring a separate bag for dirty laundry, as bed bugs are more attracted to soiled clothing. Some hotels offer laundry services to clean clothes during the stay. Additionally, holidaymakers should inspect their hotel bed for signs of bed bugs before settling in.
