What should you do if bed bugs appear in a hotel room? - briefly
Notify hotel management immediately, request a clean alternative room or a full relocation, and arrange for your belongings to be inspected or sealed before moving. Preserve evidence (e.g., photographs) and, if necessary, contact a consumer protection agency to document the incident.
What should you do if bed bugs appear in a hotel room? - in detail
If you discover bed‑bugs in your hotel accommodation, act immediately to protect yourself and secure appropriate remediation.
First, verify the infestation. Examine the mattress seams, headboard, nightstand, and any upholstered furniture for live insects, shed skins, or dark spotting. Use a flashlight and a magnifying glass if available. Document the evidence with clear photographs that show the location, size, and any markings.
Next, alert the front‑desk staff without delay. Present the photographs and request a prompt room change to a thoroughly inspected, bug‑free unit. Insist that housekeeping performs a deep cleaning of the new room before you settle in. If the hotel cannot provide a satisfactory alternative, demand a full refund and arrange your departure.
While waiting for relocation, isolate your belongings. Keep luggage on a hard surface, away from the bed and furniture. Place clothing in sealed plastic bags and consider using a portable steamer on fabrics to kill any hidden insects. Do not spread personal items to other rooms.
If the hotel’s response is inadequate, contact the corporate customer‑service line or the brand’s regional office. Cite the documented evidence and request compensation for the inconvenience, including any extra expenses such as alternative accommodation, meals, or laundry services.
After departure, treat your suitcase before returning home. Empty the contents onto a clean surface, wipe the interior with a disinfectant, and place all items in a sealed bag. Wash clothing in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. For non‑washable items, use a commercial insect‑killing spray or store them in a freezer for 72 hours.
Maintain a record of all communications, receipts, and the hotel’s policy regarding pest control. This documentation supports any future claims with the hotel, travel insurer, or consumer protection agencies.