Dermatologist warns: check several things in a hotel room before settling in

A dermatologist has warned travellers not to relax immediately upon arriving in a hotel room. It is advisable to inspect the room carefully before getting into bed and taking a shower.

After a long day of travel, the temptation to collapse into bed or step into the shower is strong – but dermatologists recommend taking some precautionary steps first.

The medical community has repeatedly drawn attention to the fact that hotel rooms, regardless of their star rating, can serve as hiding places for various parasites that cause skin problems, including bed bugs. These tiny blood-feeders conceal themselves in mattress seams, pillowcases, and even cracks in furniture.

What to check first

Initially, it is recommended to keep your luggage away from the floor – for example, on the bathroom tile counter or a luggage rack – until you have inspected the room's condition. Next, you should check the mattress, especially the corners and seams, and look for brown stains or small egg clusters that indicate the presence of bed bugs.

Additionally, it is advisable to avoid using hotel bedding directly against your skin, as it is washed less frequently than sheets. You should also check whether the bathroom shows signs of mould, which can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

On the way home

Dermatologists emphasise that caution pays off when returning from a trip as well: do not bring luggage directly into the bedroom, but wash your clothes at high temperature. This reduces the risk of bringing potential parasites into your home environment.