DOCTOR UNVEILS GROSS REASON TO AVOID UNPACKING YOUR SUITCASE IMMEDIATELY AFTER A TRIP

Matt Case - July 16th, 2024 - 8:57am PDT 

Doctor Reveals Gruesome Reason to Avoid Unpacking Suitcase Immediately After a Trip

Travelers who pride themselves on promptly unpacking their luggage upon returning home might want to reconsider. Dr. Jason Singh from Virginia has highlighted a compelling reason to delay this task: bed bugs.

In a viral TikTok video, Dr. Singh warned that opening your suitcase immediately could lead to a bed bug infestation. These pests can lay eggs in your clothes and belongings, potentially invading your home after hitching a ride in your luggage. "Bed bug eggs typically hatch within six to 10 days," Singh explained, adding that the nymphs "require a blood meal after hatching to continue their development."

To prevent this, Dr. Singh advises keeping the suitcase closed. Without access to a blood meal, the bed bugs will die of starvation or desiccation.

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How long do you wait to unpack?

♬ original sound - Dr. Jason Singh

Travel and Leisure suggests unpacking your clothes directly into the dryer instead of the washer. Eric Braun, a board-certified entomologist, told the outlet, "The high heat will kill the life stages. The water isn't hot enough to kill them, so they could survive a washing."

Braun recommends removing all clothing from the suitcase and placing it in the dryer on high for about 30 minutes. For items that need dry cleaning, bag them separately and take them to a professional cleaner. Inspect your luggage carefully, and if you suspect bed bugs, seek professional treatment for the suitcase.