What should you do if you are bitten by bedbugs in a hotel? - briefly
Document the bites, alert hotel staff right away, and demand a clean room or professional pest‑control intervention; seek medical attention if the reaction is severe. Preserve evidence—such as clothing, photos, or the receipt—to support any complaint or insurance claim.
What should you do if you are bitten by bedbugs in a hotel? - in detail
If you notice bites that appear to be from bedbugs during a hotel stay, act promptly.
First, clean the affected skin with mild soap and cool water to reduce irritation. Apply an over‑the‑counter antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream if itching is severe. Keep the area uncovered to monitor for signs of infection.
Second, document the incident. Take clear photographs of the bites and, if possible, of any visible insects or fecal spots in the room. Preserve a sample of a bedbug or its shed skin in a sealed plastic bag for verification.
Third, inform hotel personnel immediately. Request a written acknowledgment of the complaint and ask for a room change to a thoroughly inspected area. Insist that the original room be sealed and treated by a licensed pest‑control service before any further use.
Fourth, request compensation. Many hotels will offer a refund, a complimentary night, or a voucher. If the response is unsatisfactory, contact the hotel’s corporate office or the brand’s customer‑service hotline, providing the documentation you collected.
Fifth, protect your belongings. Place clothing and luggage in sealed plastic bags or large zip‑lock containers. Wash all washable items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. For non‑washable items, consider professional cleaning or storing them in a freezer for several days to kill any hidden insects.
Sixth, seek medical advice if bites worsen, become infected, or if you experience systemic symptoms such as fever, swelling, or difficulty breathing. A healthcare professional can prescribe stronger antihistamines, antibiotics, or other treatments as needed.
Seventh, follow up after departure. Check luggage and personal items at home for any signs of bedbugs. If you discover evidence, notify the hotel again and consider reporting the incident to local health‑department authorities or consumer‑protection agencies.
By documenting the problem, communicating clearly with hotel staff, securing appropriate medical care, and taking steps to prevent spread, you minimize health risks and increase the likelihood of receiving proper remediation and compensation.