Hannah, a flight attendant based in Chicago, shared her best tips for avoiding bedbugs while staying at hotels through a trending TikTok video. She explained that bedbugs are attracted to the carbon dioxide that humans exhale, making it crucial to check for them before settling in. By flipping up the corners of the mattress and breathing on the bed, Hannah demonstrated how she ensures that there are no bedbugs hiding in the hotel room.
Experts agree with Hannah’s method, stating that the carbon dioxide emitted by humans, along with body warmth, attracts bedbugs. This attraction is so strong that carbon dioxide is considered an effective way to eliminate bedbugs from infested items. In major cities like Paris and New York, where bedbugs are prevalent, individuals are willing to go to great lengths to get rid of these pests due to the discomfort they can cause.
A recent incident on an American Airlines flight from NYC to Detroit highlighted the presence of bedbugs even at 30,000 feet. A passenger noticed a bedbug crawling up their leg while in first class, causing them to raise a concern with the flight attendant. This incident emphasizes the importance of being vigilant when it comes to avoiding bedbugs, both in hotels and during travel.
Hannah’s tips go beyond just checking for bedbugs under the mattress. She also suggests pulling up all the sheets and checking the corners for any signs of the pests. Additionally, placing a bar of soap at the end of the bed can help draw out bedbugs, according to her advice. Despite the seeming humor in these methods, Hannah emphasizes that the threat of bedbug bites is serious and can lead to painful, red, swollen wounds.
Taking proactive steps to prevent encounters with bedbugs is essential, especially in environments where the pests are common. By following Hannah’s advice and being diligent in checking for bedbugs before settling into a hotel room or a bed, individuals can reduce the risk of being bitten. It is crucial to be aware of the signs of bedbugs and to take precautions to avoid coming into contact with these unwanted and unpleasant pests.
