No matter how much research you do and how many reviews you read, going on holiday and staying in a hotel always means taking something of a risk. This couple learned the hard way that hotel rooms won't always live up to our expectations, and can even have some drastic consequences.
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After spending a night in a hotel in New York's Manhattan district, this young woman had the unpleasant surprise of waking to find her skin completely ravaged. It was covered with dozens of bites caused by bed bugs. Upon lifting the mattress, the couple was horrified to discover that thebed was totally infested.
How to conquer a bed bug infestation
Bed bugscan leave us with nasty bites and they can be seriously hard to get rid of, while they may not be able to fly (thank God), they can move quickly and hide amongst your sheets, clothes, luggage and even carpets.
So, if you ever find yourself in the same situation as this poor couple, there are a few things you may want to do...such as burn everything you own.
Signs of a bed bug infestation
While bed bugs are good at hiding they can definitely still be detected. Here's what you can look out for:
- Spots of blood on your pillowcases and sheets.
- Large numbers of bug bites on the body.
- Shells of bed bug skins and eggs in places where they might hide.
- Rusty looking spots on sheets, mattresses, clothes, and walls (bed bug excrement).
- Musty odours which can be emitted by the bug's glands.
How to get rid of bed bugs
If you do find yourself ridden with bed bugs make sure you inform your landlord (if you have one). Then, you'll pretty much need to deep clean your entire house:
Clean any linens, clothes and other fabrics in a hot wash and make sure you give all areas a good vacuum. Then, empty the vacuum into a sealed bag outside to prevent any bugs from getting back in your house.
Then, use an old toothbrush to scrub your mattress free of any bed bug eggs and then cover the mattress in a tightly woven zipped cover to prevent any bugs from spreading and escaping. Or, the better option here is to get a new mattess.
After that you'll need to clear everything around your bed, making sure you check for bed bugs in any books. Repairing any cracks in the ceilings and walls will also help stop the bugs from making their way into your space.
However, bed bugs are notoriously hard to get rid of, so if these tips don't work then you may want to call an exterminator!
