Paris certainly is one of the most popular places that feature on most people’s travel bucket lists, but as in all countries, they also have their “problems”. At the time of this article (October 2023) they have a widespread issue with bedbugs. However, this is something that can happen anywhere in the world. No country is 100% immune to this. But it is also a worry that you might take some of these undesired little creatures back home with you…
While Paris is a popular tourist destination, it’s also not immune to this issue. Taking some precautions can help reduce the risk of encountering bedbugs during your trip, or help you deal with it…
Look for accommodation options with good reviews and a reputation for cleanliness. You can check online reviews which are always available with all the recommendations that you’ll find on our website. Contact the hotel in advance if you’re worried and inquire about their bedbug prevention measures and protocols. Reputable hotels often have proactive pest control measures in place.
Upon arrival, perform a thorough inspection of your hotel room. Check the seams, crevices, and folds of the mattress, as well as any upholstered furniture for signs of bedbugs. Bedbugs are tiny and reddish-brown, so they can be hard to spot. Look for small bloodstains, fecal spots, or actual bugs.
Use luggage racks or keep your suitcase on a hard surface, away from the bed and upholstered furniture. Avoid placing your luggage on the floor. You can even use a disinfectant spray (there are a few good options in stores) on the surface if you’re concerned about extra safety.
Avoid leaving your clothing and personal items strewn around the room. Instead, keep them organized and elevated. Use the hangers instead of placing them on the upholstered chair in your room. According to some research, bedbugs are more attracted to dirty clothes than to clean clothes. So, make use of specially designed travel bags that seal, to keep your dirty clothing separate.
If you do encounter bedbugs during your stay, report the issue to the hotel management immediately and request a different room or a refund to find other accommodation.
It’s essential to be vigilant when returning from a place where you suspect bedbugs might be an issue. Taking these precautions can help prevent the potential spread of bedbugs to your home.
Keep your luggage away from your living spaces. The garage, a balcony, or another isolated area is ideal for this purpose. Avoid placing your luggage on your bed or upholstered furniture.
When returning from your trip, wash and dry your clothing on the highest heat settings. This can kill any potential bedbugs that may have attached to your belongings.
Look for any signs of bedbugs, such as live bugs, small bloodstains, fecal spots, or shed skins. Use a flashlight for better visibility.
Use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to thoroughly vacuum the interior and exterior of your luggage. Empty the vacuum’s contents into a sealed plastic bag and dispose of it in an outdoor trash container.
Clean the affected area by washing the bites with soap and water. This will aid in preventing potential skin infections and alleviating itchiness. If the bites cause itching, consider applying an over-the-counter corticosteroid cream available at your local drugstore. Weaker forms of this medication can be purchased without a prescription, while stronger corticosteroids necessitate a prescription from a healthcare professional.
If you continue to experience bed bug bites or notice a worsening infestation in your own home, it’s advisable to seek professional pest control services. Early detection and effective treatment are crucial in managing bed bug infestations.
In conclusion, traveling to Paris, like any other destination, can be a safe and enjoyable experience. While bedbug infestations can occur in various places, it’s important to remember that not all locations are affected. Paris offers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and beauty that can be explored with peace of mind, knowing that responsible travel practices can help ensure a comfortable and bedbug-free experience.
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