How to stop bed bugs playing havoc in your hotel

A bed bug plague is hitting British cities as a result of this summer’s hot weather, experts are warning. With the effects of bedbugs ranging from skin rashes to allergic reactions, it’s important to do all you can to keep your guests protected.

Tip 1: Keep your mattresses clean

Most of us will be used to changing bed sheets regularly, but when was the last time you actually cleaned your hotel’s mattress? It’s a little-known fact, but you should actually clean some mattresses every six months to prevent dust mites, dead skin and dirt accumulating, making your spring clean the perfect time to give it a bit of extra care.

It sounds complicated but it’s easy enough to keep hotel mattresses looking and feeling fresh. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dirt, hair and crumbs, following up with baking soda to deodorize the mattress and leave it looking spick and span.

Tip 2: Install specially designed luggage racks

Many people can unknowingly transport bed bugs with them, and despite popular belief it’s not just in low budget hotels or hostels that you’ll find these critters lurking. You can help to prevent bed bugs hitching a ride by keeping specially designed luggage racks and stands in your rooms. Ensure these are located in a different part of the room to encourage guests to keep their luggage away from the bed.

Tip 3: Invest in high quality mattresses

If you’re still concerned about bed bugs in the rooms of your hotel, look for a mattress made with special materials. Sealy mattresses are treated to ensure bed bugs are kept at bay using Bugshield fibres. These fibres are made of a new special form of biocide, which is guaranteed skin-safe and kills bed bugs whilst creating an inhospitable environment to prevent further infestations. It also kills off house dust mites, so your guests can sleep comfortably and contently.