Avoiding bed bugs may be the last thing on your mind when you’re on vacation. However, since thousands of visitors pass through hotels every year, it’s not unlikely to encounter these pesky critters during your travels. Here’s how you can identify these unwanted guests in your hotel room and how to handle the issue if you do.

Identifying & Handling Bed Bugs 

1. Don’t Unpack

When you first arrive at your destination, you may want to unpack and relax. However, resist this urge and put your luggage on a closet shelf or rack that will keep it off the floor. Unfortunately, bed bugs can infiltrate the carpet and get into your belongings. You can also leave your bags outside with a loved one until you’ve inspected the room.

2. Check in Dark Places & Around the Bed 

Once you have secured your luggage, you can begin your pest inspection. Bed bugs love dark places, so make sure you check any areas that may be hidden from direct light with a flashlight or a bright light on your phone. You should also check all threaded items in your hotel, even window draperies, as these are susceptible to bed bugs.

3. Inspect the Bed Carefully

Finally, you should inspect the bed thoroughly. Pull the blankets off to reveal the mattress and check the corners, as these are common places for the critters to hide. Check any folds or seams for dark spots. If you notice black or brown stains or other identifiers, like eggs or shells, contact the manager to notify pest control right away.

No matter how careful you are, sometimes unwanted stowaways make their way into your home. If you’re worried about an infestation, contact Advanced Termite & Pest Control in Crossville, TN. Their team of professional exterminators provide expert pest control services to ensure your home is free of critters, including bed bugs, ants, spiders, and fleas. For more information on their available services, visit them online, or call (866) 636-2687 to schedule an appointment today.