We’ve all done it – walked into a hotel room and casually dropped our luggage on the bed or floor without a second thought. But after one too many horror stories about bedbugs and questionable cleanliness, I adopted a simple habit that’s saved me countless worries: the bathtub luggage trick.
Here’s why it works. Bedbugs, those nightmare-inducing hitchhikers, prefer soft, warm environments like mattresses and carpets. The cold, smooth surface of a bathtub? About as appealing to them as a winter camping trip. By placing your bags in the tub when you first arrive, you create a safe zone while you inspect the room.
But it’s not just about bedbugs. Think about how many feet have walked on that carpet before yours. Hotel bathrooms receive much more thorough cleaning between guests, making the tub the cleanest surface in the room. It’s also elevated, protecting your belongings from accidental spills or cleaning mishaps.
My routine? Luggage goes straight in the tub, then I conduct a quick room inspection – mattress seams, headboard, and curtains get special attention. Only when I’m satisfied does my suitcase graduate to a luggage rack. This two-minute ritual has saved me from potential infestations multiple times.
