Surviving the UK’s Bed Bug Epidemic: Tips for Hotel Guests

The UK like many other parts of Europe is battling a bedbug infestation. UK pest control experts Rentokil report that there has been a 65% increase in bedbugs year on year in the UK. This is borne out by the fact that in the past few weeks, there has been a big increase in internet searches relating to bed bugs.

In this blog, we will explore the rising bed bug epidemic in the UK, where it originated as well as providing some valuable tips on how hotel guests can protect themselves from hotel bed bug bites and survive the ordeal.

Where Did The Bed Bug Infestation Originate?

France and Paris in particular is currently battling a mass infestation of bedbugs. Bed bugs have been spotted both on the Paris metro and in Charles de Gaule airport. This has resulted in complaints from visitors about the presence of bedbugs in hotels, air bnb’s, cinemas and restaurants.

This has has resulted in hoteliers and householders alike being forced to destroy bed linen and transport operators reassuring travellers that trains are being thoroughly cleaned on a regular basis.

Over the past few weeks, France has hosted not only Fashion week but also the rugby world cup. These events have attracted hundreds of thousand of visitors from all over the world to France. This has led to worries that travellers returning from these events will spread this infestation.

One particular worry for the UK is that many of these visitors will be travelling on the Eurostar. However, the operators have sought to reassure passengers that all carriages and textile surfaces are being thoroughly cleaned and heat treatment is being used to help eliminate the threat of bedbugs.

However, reports indicate that the infestation may already have reached the UK, brought in the luggage of travellers. So, we have put together some information on the way you can avoid dreaded bed bug bites in the UK and what action you should take if you are unfortunate enough to be bitten.

Understanding the Bed Bug Epidemic in the UK

The bed bug problem in the UK has been on the rise, and it’s not confined to a single region or type of accommodation. Hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and even upscale establishments have all reported bed bug infestations. These little critters thrive in places with high turnover, making hotels a prime target. They can easily hitch a ride on luggage and linen and spread quickly from room to room.

So why is there such a resurgence of bed bugs in the UK? Several factors contribute to this epidemic:

There are a number of reasons why there has been an increase in bed bugs in the UK with some of it being attributed to the cost of living crisis. This has led to both business and homeowners looking to save money by buying second hand furniture off auction sites like Facebook market place and eBay.

However, while this may a contributory factor there are some other issues which probably play a bigger part in the spread of bed bugs. These include:

Increased Travel: Since the covid pandemic ended there has been an increase in the number of people travelling within and to the UK. This means the chances of bed bugs spreading have grown exponentially. Bed bugs are notorious hitchhikers and can be inadvertently transported from one location to another by unsuspecting travellers.
Insecticide Resistance: Over the years, bed bugs have developed increased levels of tolerance to many of the pesticides commonly used to eradicate them, making them more challenging to eliminate them.
Lack of Public Awareness: A lot of people are not fully aware of the signs of bed bug infestations and how best to prevent them. This lack of awareness can lead to delayed reporting and infestation spread.
Limited Regulations: The UK does not have specific regulations regarding bed bugs in the hospitality industry. This can lead to varying levels of vigilance and response by different establishments.

What Steps Can You Take to Avoid Hotel Bed Bug Bites

Now that we have an understanding of the situation, let’s explore the proactive measures hotel guests can take to survive the bed bug epidemic.

1. Educate Yourself

The first and most crucial step in surviving the UK’s bed bug epidemic is education. Being aware of what bed bugs look like, where they hide, and how they feed can help you identify and avoid potential infestations. These pests are tiny, reddish-brown insects that feed on human blood. They leave behind itchy, red bite marks in clusters or lines on the skin.

2. Check Hotel Reviews

Before booking a hotel, do your homework. Read reviews and check if previous guests have reported bed bug issues. Keep in mind that even the best hotels can occasionally have problems, so don’t immediately rule out a hotel just because of one or two negative comments. Instead, look for patterns of issues in the reviews.

3. Inspect Your Room

Upon arrival at your hotel, inspect your room for any signs of bed bugs. Start by placing your luggage in the bathroom or another area that is less likely to have bed bugs. Then, follow these steps:

a. Check the Bed: Examine the seams, folds, and crevices of the mattress, box spring, and headboard. Look for live bugs, shed exoskeletons, or tiny reddish-brown spots (faecal matter).
b. Inspect Furniture: Look at chairs, sofas, and any upholstered furniture for signs of bed bugs.
c. Search Luggage Rack: Even luggage racks can be infested. Check the straps, seams, and joints.
d. Examine the Walls: Bed bugs can hide behind peeling wallpaper or in cracks in the wall.
e. Check the Nightstands: Inspect the drawers and undersides for signs of bed bugs.
f. Look in the Closet: Check the seams and corners of the closet for any evidence.

4. Keep Luggage Elevated

To minimise the risk of bed bugs crawling into your suitcase, use a luggage rack or keep your luggage elevated on a hard surface rather than on the bed or carpeted floor. Bed bugs have a harder time climbing on smooth surfaces.

5. Unpack Carefully

When you are unpacking, make sure you take as much care as possible. If possible elevate your case onto a suitcase stand or a bathroom counter, rather than directly on the bed or carpet. This will significantly reduce the possibility of bed bugs transferring onto your belongings.

6. Use Bed Bug Proof Encasements

Consider investing in bed bug-proof encasements for your luggage. These are specially designed to prevent bed bugs from getting inside and are a great preventive measure for frequent travellers.

7. Avoid Unnecessary Clutter

Keep your hotel room neat and tidy. Clutter provides hiding places for bed bugs, making it harder to detect an infestation.

8. Be Cautious with Second-Hand Items

If you’re tempted by thrift store finds during your trip, be cautious. Second-hand furniture or clothing can be a source of bed bugs, so inspect items carefully and consider the risk before bringing them into your room.

9. Report Suspected Infestations

If you do find evidence of bed bugs in your room, don’t panic. Instead, report it immediately to the hotel management. They should take prompt action to address the issue and possibly move you to a different room.

10. Launder Your Clothing After Your Stay

After returning home from your trip, wash all your clothing in hot water and dry them on high heat. This can kill any bed bugs or eggs that may have hitchhiked back with you.

What Do Bed Bug Bites Look Like

If you are bitten by a bed bug it will leave you with a red, swollen and itchy rash on your skin. While hotel bed bug bites are unlikely to make you sick they can be extremely uncomfortable and in some cases cause an allergic reaction. Bed bug bites will in the majority of cases clear up within about a week without treatment. However, it is advisable to keep the area cool and clean as this will keep the swelling down and help with the irritation.

What You Should Do If You are Bitten By a Bed Bug

If are bitten while in a hotel or any other establishment you could be entitled to bed bug compensation. Hotel bed bug bites can lead to not only physical discomfort but also emotional stress.

The team here at Tylers are experts when it comes to getting customers the bed bug compensation that they deserve. Our legal services are provided on a no win, no fee basis allowing you to start your claim immediately without worrying about the cost.

Contact Tylers Solicitors

In summary, the bed bug epidemic in the UK is a growing concern for travellers. However, with proper education, awareness, and proactive measures, hotel guests can significantly reduce the risk of encountering these annoying little pests during their stay. By following the tips outlined in this blog, you can help ensure a comfortable and bug-free experience on your next UK adventure. However, if you are unfortunate enough to have experienced bed bug bites in your latest hotel stay, contact Tylers Solicitors and we will help you get the compensation you deserve.