It’s Official. Orlando Is Ranked in the Top 50 WORST Cities for BED BUGS

It’s quite possibly the worst-case scenario a person can face in their hotel room.

Lion King hotel room at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

We spend a lot of time discussing how to make the best decision on where to stay in Disney World and even how to score the best price on that stay, but there are certain things even we can’t prepare you for. No one wants to walk into their hotel room (or crawl into bed after a full day in the park) and discover some pesky roommates, but according to a new expert study, your chances of this happening may have increased.

According to an expert study led by Orkin Pest Control, Orlando has once again ranked as one of the top 50 worst cities for bed bugs. If you caught that, we say “again” because Orlando isn’t new to the list.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

This year’s ranking of the top 50 worst cities awards Orlando the 46th spot, taking a higher position than last year’s 47th-ranked city. While the city is not super high on the list, just the thought alone of finding bed bugs in your hotel room is maddening enough.

©Disney

Hey — there’s a reason why these tiny insects are called “pests.” They’re so hard to eliminate without proper treatment. According to Orkin, Bed bugs are typically 3/16 inch long, making them super tiny to spot. Their color can also range from red to dark brown, and these sneaky insects are mostly nocturnal.

©Dzurag/Getty Images

Bed bugs are hematophagous — meaning blood is their only food source. Don’t think that just because they’re not on the bed, though, you’re in the clear. These insects can cling to items such as luggage, purses, and other personal belongings.

“Bed bugs are extremely resilient, making them difficult to control. As travel plans ramp up, it’s important that Americans know how to protect themselves through pest identification and proper control,” said Ben Hottel an Orkin entomologist.

©Center for Invasive Species Research

Orkin also recommended a few proactive tips for when you’re home…

©Orkin

… and traveling to prevent bed bugs.

©Orkin

It may not be ideal to find yourself in a situation where you have to deal with bed bugs, but rest assured, professionals can help you out and advise you best on how to get rid of them in the quickest and most effective way possible.

We’re always looking for the best travel trends and tips, so stay tuned with us at AllEars for the latest updates!