This is why you should always put a suitcase in the bath

Do you remember that huge bedbug outbreak in Paris last year? Although it is now almost over — thank goodness — I have become much more attentive when I step into a new hotel room inside. Before I pop open a cold cola zero and enjoy on my balcony, I first check under the bedding to see if I spot any small brown spots. Only then does my vacation really begin.

Still, that quick check-up doesn’t say much. Bedbugs can be found everywhere in a room, not just in your mattress. For example, you should never place your suitcase under the bed, as it will turn your suitcase into a second home for them. But where should you put all those suitcases? It’s the last place you would think of, but it’s the best from the test: the bathtub.

I know: throwing your suitcase in the bath is often not on the list of things to do when you arrive at your vacation destination, but in the long run, you will be grateful to yourself. This way, you prevent your suitcase from coming into contact with fabric surfaces, such as carpets, bedding, and curtains where bedbugs often reside. No bath? That’s fine too, just place your suitcases in the bathroom. If you’ve chosen a somewhat decent hotel, your bathroom consists of tiles and not upholstered furniture.

Make sure to leave a small note for housekeeping stating that they can just leave your suitcases as they are. Otherwise, there’s a good chance they will put them back in the room itself or in a luggage rack, as you find in some hotels. This is a place where bed bugs can be found, so avoid this.

Do you really want to play it safe during your vacation to avoid bringing bedbugs back home? Here are a few extra tips.

Make sure to use hard suitcases that are NOT made of fabric. Check this at Action. Fabric suitcases are easier for bedbugs to cling to.

Resealable plastic bags are a great tip. Keep as many items in here during your stay to keep your clothes bedbug-free.
Staying just one or two nights? Then be smart and keep all items that can stay in your suitcase just in the suitcase. A blazer should of course be hung up, you understand that.

Source: travelandleisure.com, Image: @caradaur