How To Find Bed Bugs In Hotels

By: Wren Hubbard

Break Studios Contributing Writer

You don’t need special equipment to know how to find bed bugs in hotels. Bed bugs are small but you can see them with your naked eye, you just need to know where to look. Use this check sheet to search for the vermin. Hopefully you won’t find bed bugs in your hotel room.

  1. Inspect the comforter. This is the first place you want to look at to find bed bugs in hotels. Since they require special cleaning, most hotels don’t wash the comforter between guests. Look closely and make sure you don’t miss the little critters. Some bedspread patterns make pretty good camouflage. You’re looking for reddish or yellowish-brown, wingless insects with pronounced eyes. Experts have compared bed bugs to apple seeds in shape and size.         
  2. Remove the comforter and check the blankets and sheets. These interior linens are washed after each use, but they’re still a good place to look if you want to find bed bugs in hotels. Folds make great hiding places.   
  3. Check the pillows. Maids usually put pillowcases and pillow shams in the wash but the same can’t be said for pillows themselves. The soft headrests are prime breeding grounds for germs and bacteria. Naturally, they make a nice home for pests as well. Give them a quick once over to make sure you don’t find bed bugs. 
  4. Take off the sheets and inspect the mattress. Pay close attention to the cervices. The little nooks and crannies of the mattress is the best place to find bed bugs in hotels. Don’t forget to check between the top mattress and the box spring. You might find bed bugs in hotel bed skirts, too. Check the folds of the fabric. 
  5. Visually check other locations. You can find bed bugs in hotels by searching other places too. Although they’re called bed bugs, the little insects are just as comfortable in seat cushions, bathrobes and any other plush surface.    
Posted on: Apr. 12, 2010