Why Experts Say To Put Hotel Luggage In The Bathtub
If you’re going on vacation anytime soon, some travel experts suggest giving your luggage a little tub time. Travel + Leisure magazine chatted with Lydia Mansel, a travel writer and the founder of Just Packed about how to avoid bed bugs while traveling.
According to the outlet, there was a “full-blown” bed bug pandemic in hotels around the world. They point out that Paris was hit the hardest. Apparently, there was a wave of bed bug sightings across Paris from Charles de Gaulle airport to the Paris Metro, movie theaters, and more.
Putting Hotel Luggage In The Bathtub
Because of instances like these, Mansel shared that when you check into a hotel room, “do not under any circumstances” put your luggage on your bed. She suggests that instead, you put it inside the bathtub.
By doing this, your luggage stays clear of any fabric surfaces including carpets, bedding, decor, and drapes that may harbor tiny fugitive bed bugs hopping in your suitcase to hitch a ride to their next destination.
“Whenever I check into a hotel, I immediately put my luggage either in the bathroom, the entryway, or any space away from the bed and not on the carpet. This way, my belongings are far enough away from any furniture where bed bugs usually reside — and I significantly lower my chances of bringing them home.” Mansel told the outlet.
She added that she also likes to leave a note on top of the suitcase, letting housekeeping know to leave her bag there. “I’ve occasionally had my bags moved and placed on luggage racks — which can also be home to bed bugs — so the note ensures my luggage stays where I left it,” she said.
Ways to prevent bed bugs from infesting your luggage
According to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, travelers should choose a hard-sided suitcase whenever possible as “it is more difficult for bed bugs to attach to rigid materials than to fabric.” The department also suggests packing in resealable plastic bags and bringing a small flashlight to help you inspect your room upon arrival.
Some people also offered their own tips on social media. One person suggested putting your used clothes inside a sealed bag. Another person said that they use a “deterrent made of essential oil and spray it on my suitcases for added protection.” The person didn’t disclose exactly what the mixture was but I do know that most retailers carry travel-sized bug sprays that are good for being on the go.
