How to Make Money on Vacation Rental Property

Last updated on Jul 5, 2023
Jason Kurtz

Vacation rental properties are more affordable than five-star hotels for travelers, but are their owners making good money? Rather than viewing it as passive income, successful vacation rental owners proactively maintain and market their rental properties. From how to advertise a vacation rental to how to schedule bookings, we provide a list of tips to help you optimize your vacation rental property.

Click the links below to skip to the vacation rental profitability question that interest you:

Are Vacation Rentals Profitable?

italian style house with swimming pool palm trees and ocean sea view

A vacation rental can be profitable as long as you have a strong business plan, competitive pricing, and a steady stream of guests. In 2021, the industry’s total value in the United States was estimated at just over $13 billion. With a steady growth rate and increased exposure, the industry figures to continue expanding in the coming years, providing ample opportunities for prospective vacation rental property owners.

Is Owning a Vacation Rental a Good Investment?

With proper planning, owning a vacation rental property is a good investment. Like any other investment, investing in real estate carries some level of risk. However, it has a consistent track record of appreciating in value over time. Vacation rental properties also represent less of a commitment than other businesses in the hospitality industry.

Vacation Rental Tips

Whether you're just starting out in the vacation rental business, or you've been a property owner for years, it's important to stay ahead of hospitality trends to remain profitable. Follow the tips below to spruce up your rental listing, attract more bookings, and turn higher profits.

1. Assess Vacation Rental Location

Opening a vacation rental in a bad location limits your ability to make money. Because of this, you should research the area before purchasing a property. Take notes on the climate, the popularity of the area, and any nearby attractions. A good vacation rental location attracts visitors throughout the entire year and maintains a steady flow of customers. Some of the most popular locations for a vacation rental include:

  • Tourist destinations
  • Traditional vacation spots, like beaches or lakes
  • Travel hubs

2. Invest in Your Property

A key mistake that many first-time vacation rental owners make is being unwilling to invest in, upgrade, or properly maintain their existing space. While it’s important to save money where you can, there are some instances where spending can be beneficial. Paying professionals to make repairs, renovating your property, and buying quality vacation rental supplies are all ways to give your listing a competitive advantage.

3. Improve Your Listing

If potential renters aren’t aware of your property, you can't expect to make much money on it. Because of this, it is essential that you effectively list your property. Whether you’re listing your rental on platforms like Airbnb, posting it on social media, or advertising it through a different platform, you can improve your vacation rental listing by following these tips:

beach house by the ocean with palm trees
  • Write a thorough description: A good vacation rental description informs your guests about the property in a captivating way. Use descriptive words that set your property apart from the rest. You can also highlight local attractions or events that might interest travelers.
  • Post accurate information: Accurate information is expected, while out-of-date or inaccurate information can have significant consequences on the reviews you receive and your ability to retain repeat guests.
  • Use eye-catching photos: More than anything else, good photos can sell a potential guest on your vacation rental property. If it doesn't look enticing, they won’t consider staying there. Consider hiring a professional photographer to take pictures of your property. If you plan on taking your own pictures, be sure to keep the space clean, show off the features and size of the property, and emphasize what makes it unique.

4. Understand the Risks

To stay competitive, vacation rental owners should always know the risks they're taking on the potential challenges they may face. With any rental property, bookings can fluctuate throughout the year. For your own financial security, you should only invest in a vacation rental property if you have a steady stream of outside income. Whether you're unable to book any stays or you have to cancel reservations to make repairs, any period where you aren't making money can be disastrous if your vacation rental is your sole source of income.

5. Set Competitive Prices

Every vacation rental owner should try to understand their market and set competitive, yet reasonable, rates. Setting prices that are too high can discourage potential guests from booking a stay, while prices that are too low result in lost profits. To set ideal prices, follow these tips:

  • Analyze the market: Stay in touch with the price of other rentals in your area to ensure your prices aren’t outdated. Consider pricing your property slightly beneath neighboring rental properties to attract more guests.
  • Consider demand: Plan to change your rates during peak rental season and slow rental season. Adjusting your rates based on demand can help to attract more guests, even during the months when fewer people are traveling.
  • Plan for events and holidays: Even if you're new to the area, staying in touch with local events can give you an advantage over your competition. Anticipating an influx of travelers helps you prepare early, positioning you for success.

6. Manage Your Schedule

Your property’s availability can play a significant role in how much money it makes. Follow these guidelines to optimize your schedule and maximize revenue:

  • Manage your calendar: An out-of-date calendar can lead to double bookings, forcing you to cancel a reservation. Not only does this result in lost revenue, but it can deter the rejected guest from renting from you again and cause negative reviews.
  • Manage check-in and checkout times: Consider implementing early checkout times for departing guests, giving you enough time to clean the property before the next guest arrives. This helps to reduce the wait time for your next guest.
  • Promote longer stays: One way to facilitate more rentals is to encourage guests to stay longer. One way to do this is to offer discounts on longer stays. Guests who reserve the property for a single night provide revenue but can disrupt others looking to book a longer visit. If the property is reserved for a longer period, guests may simply book directly after the reservation is complete.
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Owning a Vacation Rental FAQ

house with a vacation rental sign on the outside

Owning a vacation rental and making it profitable can be confusing. Below, we've answered some of the most frequently asked questions about running a successful vacation rental business.

How to Calculate Vacation Rental Income

To estimate your vacation rental income, you’ll need to know your average nightly rate, average nights booked, and monthly expenses. By multiplying your average nightly rate and average nights booked, you’ll be able to project your average monthly income. Then, subtract your monthly expenses to find your takeaway earnings.

Hidden Costs of Owning a Vacation Rental

Vacation rental properties come with additional expenses that residential homes do not. These costs can vary, but it's essential to be aware of them before making your decision. Some of the more frequently encountered expenses include:

  • Maintenance: While some maintenance costs can be expected on all properties, many maintenance expenses depend on the amenities you offer. Keeping a pool open, maintaining a hot tub, and offering video streaming services drive up your monthly bills.
  • Increased utility cost: While homeowners are incentivized to cut costs and conserve utilities, vacationers are incentivized to do the opposite. Guests visiting your vacation rental property may leave lights on, windows open, or keep the air conditioning running, resulting in utility bills that are higher than expected.
  • Replacement costs: To keep your rental property feeling fresh and updated, it’s best to replace certain things over time. To stay competitive, hotel room supplies such as bed linens, dishes, and decorations should be cycled out and replaced with updated products every few years.

What Can You Write Off on a Vacation Rental?

Not only does renting out a vacation property allow you to collect additional income, but you can write off some expenses for tax purposes. It's important to note that tax codes can vary depending on where you live, making it essential that you speak to a tax expert or educate yourself on local tax laws before making deductions. Some common vacation rental expenses that you can deduct from your taxes include:

  • Repairs and renovations
  • Property taxes
  • Listing and marketing fees
  • Travel expenses
  • Legal fees
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By making the correct marketing, scheduling, and business decisions, you can position your vacation rental property for success. Follow our vacation rental tips to maximize your profits and stay competitive in a growing industry.

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Related Resources

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Whether you're preparing to open a bed and breakfast of your own or you just want to learn more about the subject, the information above is a great place to start.

  • Types of Hotels

    Hotels are the foundation of the accommodations sector and play a vital role in the hospitality industry. Travelers of every nature, whether they travel for business or recreation, require overnight lodging while they are away from home. Within the travel industry, there are different types of hotels to suit the budget and lifestyle of any guest. If you’re seeking a career in hospitality or thinking of opening your own vacation rental business, read on to familiarize yourself with the different hotel categories, the services they offer, and their staff requirements. Shop All Hotel Room Supplies Click any of the tips below to read the section that interests you: Hotels Motels Bed and Breakfasts Inns Boutique Hotels Resorts Vacation Rental Homes Timeshares Hostels Hotels The larger hotel industry is named for the most common type of paid lodging, the hotel. To be classified as a hotel, an establishment must contain multiple rooms with en suite (connected) bathrooms. When entering the building, guests are greeted by a reception desk where they check in for temporary lodging. Many hotels have multiple floors that are connected by a centrally located elevator. Hotels are often identified by star ratings that indicate the affordability of the rooms and the level of service and amenities offered. Some hotels are no-frills establishments with very few services and others offer continental breakfast, swimming pools, fitness rooms, and business centers. The definitions of star ratings vary across different review sites, but generally a 1-star hotel is considered the most budget-friendly and a 5-star hotel is the most luxurious, upscale option. Hotel Features The following features are considered unique to hotels and differentiate them from other types of hospitality businesses: Target Customer - Vacationers, business travelers Staff Requirements - Management, reception, housekeeping, maintenance, restaurant and bar staff Amenities - Coffeemaker, mini-fridge, microwave, ice bucket, television, telephone, bed linens, towels, toiletries Services - 24 hour reception, room cleaning, wake-up calls, room service, laundry service, onsite dining, fitness room, business center Motels Motels and hotels are often mixed up despite being two different types of businesses. In structure, hotels have multiple floors with blocks of rooms accessible by interior hallways. Motels are built so each room is accessible from outside the building. They commonly have one or two floors and no elevator. Instead of a front desk area, guests enter a front office to inquire about vacancies. Targeted towards customers traveling in their vehicles, motels are situated along busy roads and have ample parking. Motorists can pull into a motel and access their guest room directly from the parking lot. Motel Features The features listed below make motels unique: Target Customer - Roadtrippers, business travelers, truck drivers Staff Requirements - Management, reception, housekeeping, maintenance Amenities - Television, telephone, bed linens, towels Services - Room cleaning Bed and Breakfasts Bed and breakfasts are popular options for travelers looking for a personal, home-away-from-home feel to their lodging. Romantic and quaint, B&Bs are usually located inside of historical homes with rooms converted into guest rooms. It’s common for each room to have a name, a theme, and unique decor. Touches like canopy beds, old-fashioned wallpaper, and antique clawfoot bathtubs have been a trademark of bed and breakfasts, but it’s also possible to find businesses that have broken out of this mold. The commonality between all bed and breakfasts is the inclusion of a homemade breakfast served in a communal room for all overnight guests. Bed and breakfasts are usually operated solely by the owner, who may live on site. Bed and Breakfast Features The following features are specific to bed and breakfasts and set them apart from other businesses: Target Customer - Honeymooners, vacationers Staff Requirements - Owner, cleaning service Amenities - Toiletries, bed linens, towels, snacks, beverages Services - Homemade breakfast, housekeeping Inns Inns are similar to B&Bs because they are often converted from buildings like historical mansions, farmhouses, or boarding houses. Anchored by a tavern or restaurant, inns are larger than bed and breakfasts and provide more privacy. Inns differ from hotels because they are usually located in small towns or rural locations. Inn Features The features listed below are specific to inns and help to make them unique: Target Customer - Honeymooners, vacationers, roadtrippers Staff Requirements - Management, reception, housekeeping, restaurant and bar staff Amenities - Toiletries, bed linens, towels, snacks, beverages Services - Onsite dining, room cleaning, room service Boutique Hotels Boutique hotels are a relatively new style of lodging. Where standard hotel chains usually feature the same design and decor throughout every location, regardless of city, boutique hotels are all singularly unique. Great emphasis is placed on making each boutique hotel feel like a one-of-a-kind business with decor that highlights design trends and local art. Modern, space-saving furnishings are used in guest rooms. You’ll find these mini-hotels in popular cities and tourist destinations. Boutique Hotel Features Boutique hotels share the following features which differentiate them from other types of hotels: Target Customer - Vacationers, business travelers Staff Requirements - Management, reception, housekeeping, maintenance, restaurant and bar staff Amenities - Coffeemaker, mini-fridge, microwave, ice bucket, television, telephone, toiletries, bed linens, towels Services - 24 hour reception, room cleaning Back to Top Resorts Resorts are large complexes made up of guest rooms, recreational facilities, outdoor spaces, and multiple dining options. You’ll find resorts located near popular attractions like beaches, national parks, and tourist destinations. Targeted towards vacationers seeking a travel experience, resorts may have multiple pools, private beach clubs, and guided excursions. Because they are so large, resorts require a considerable amount of square footage to be built and they employ many staff members. It's common for resorts to attract business by offering all-inclusive packages, in which customers pay a flat rate to receive lodging, meals, alcoholic beverages, and other onsite services. Resort Features The features listed below are unique to resorts: Target Customer - Honeymooners, vacationers Staff Requirements - Management, reception, valet, housekeeping, maintenance, restaurant and bar staff, tour guides, lifeguards Amenities - Minibar, coffeemaker, ice bucket, television, telephone, toiletries, bed linens, towels Services - 24 hour reception, room cleaning, concierge service, bellhop service, room service, onsite dining, fitness room, spa, indoor / outdoor pools, private beach access, golf courses, excursions Vacation Rental Homes Vacation rental homes are residential locations operated by one owner or a property management group that can be rented on a weekly basis. They are typically located in areas travelers want to visit, like beaches, lakes, ski resorts, and other tourist destinations. The level of amenities varies from home to home and is reflected in the weekly rental rate. Vacation homes are a popular choice for families or large groups. Instead of paying for several hotel rooms, renters can secure an entire home and gain access to multiple bedrooms and a full kitchen. Thanks to the website Airbnb, it’s easy for homeowners to post their rental listing and be immediately connected with customers from all over the world. Rental homes require no staff for operation but do need to be cleaned by the owner or an outside service after every stay. Vacation Rental Features Below, you'll find a list of features that set vacation rentals apart from other rental properties: Target Customer - Vacationers, honeymooners, roadtrippers, business travelers Staff Requirements - None Amenities - Varies from rental to rental Services - None Timeshares Timeshares are a type of resort or hotel that operates under divided ownership. The property of the resort is owned and operated by a management company, but individuals buy into the timeshare and are granted the right to use a guest unit during a specific week of the year. Owners have access to their unit during the same week every year unless they decide to trade in their week for a weeklong stay at another resort owned by the same company. Like resorts, timeshares are located near tourist attractions and offer a variety of services and recreational activities. Because they cater to guests returning year after year to use their timeshare week, there is more of a personal feel to timeshares. Many offer unique perks to attract prospective buyers. Timeshare Features Continue reading to learn about a variety of features which set timeshares apart from other sectors of the hospitality business: Target Customer - Vacationers Staff Requirements - Management, reception, housekeeping, maintenance, restaurant and bar staff, lifeguards Amenities - Full kitchen, television, telephone, bed linens, towels Services - Reception, onsite dining, fitness room, spa, indoor / outdoor pools, private beach access, golf courses, excursions Hostels Targeted towards students and world travelers, hostels offer basic accommodations and are located in popular cities. What they lack in services, they make up for in affordability and convenience. Hostels are made up of a collection of private rooms, dormitory-style rooms, and communal bathrooms. Guests are given access to a shared kitchen and living space. Hostels are designed to attract long-term travelers on a budget. They offer a communal atmosphere where guests can socialize with each other, which is attractive to solo travelers. The hostel staff usually plays many roles by manning the reception desk, giving tours, and planning social activities. They also perform housekeeping duties and wash bed linens and towels. Hostel Features Hostels are defined by the following features which make them unique: Target Customer - Students, solo travelers, backpackers, roadtrippers Staff Requirements - Reception Amenities - Communal bathroom, kitchen, laundry, and living spaces Services - Guided tours, social activities, movie nights Back to Top Tourism is supported by the hotel industry and the different types of accommodations available to travelers. Whether your guests are looking for a place to lay their head for the night or a luxurious week long vacation, there are many different types of hotels that fulfill the basic need for safe, secure lodging.

  • How Hotels Can Help Prevent Bed Bugs

    Bed bugs are a rising problem that can cause significant issues for businesses in the hospitality industry. These tiny pests can quickly infest a room or an entire facility, leading to customer complaints, negative reviews, and potential financial losses. Preventing bed bug infestations is crucial to maintaining a clean and comfortable environment for your guests. Thankfully, there are effective strategies and products to help you prevent bed bugs from becoming a problem in your establishment. By following these recommendations, you can reduce the risk of bed bug infestations, help protect your guests and staff, and work to maintain a positive reputation for your business. Click the links below to skip to the hotel bed bug prevention information that most interests you: What Are Bed Bugs? How Do You Get Bed Bugs? Staff Education What Bed Bugs Look Like on a Mattress Bed Bug Resistant Bed Supplies Infestation Action Plan Traveler Awareness Program Hotel Bed Bug Prevention FAQ What Are Bed Bugs? Bed bugs are small, nocturnal insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals while they sleep. While they’re only about the size of an apple seed, their bites can cause itching, allergic reactions, and sleep disturbances. Thankfully, they are not known to transmit diseases. However, they cause extreme discomfort and can ruin the reputation of a hospitality business. Bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers and can easily be transported from one location to another. They’re attracted to warmth and carbon dioxide, so they tend to infest areas where people spend a significant amount of time such as hotels, dormitories, and even public transportation. Contrary to popular belief, bed bugs are not a sign of poor hygiene or cleanliness. They can infest even the cleanest of environments. How Do You Get Bed Bugs? Understanding how bed bugs are spread is crucial in preventing infestations in commercial settings. Here are some important facts about how bed bugs are typically acquired: Travel: Bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers and can easily latch onto luggage, clothing, and personal belongings. They often infest hotels, motels, and other types of lodging establishments, which can then spread to homes and businesses. Used Furniture and Clothing: Bed bugs can hide in used furniture, such as mattresses, couches, and chairs. They can also be found in secondhand clothing, especially in items stored in infested areas. Public Spaces: Bed bugs can be found in public areas such as movie theaters, libraries, and public transportation. They can easily crawl onto clothing or bags and be brought back to a commercial establishment. Guests and Visitors: Bed bugs can be brought into commercial spaces by guests or visitors. They may unknowingly carry bed bugs on their clothing, luggage, or personal items. Providing education and awareness about bed bugs to employees and guests can help prevent infestations. Employee Belongings: Bed bugs can also be introduced into a commercial space through employee belongings. It is important for employees to be vigilant and regularly inspect their personal items for any signs of bed bugs. Encouraging employees to store their belongings in designated areas, away from potential infestation sources, can help prevent the spread of bed bugs. Hotel Bed Bug Protocol Preventing bed bug infestations requires a multi-faceted approach that includes regular inspections, proper housekeeping practices, and education. By understanding how bed bugs are acquired, commercial establishments can take proactive measures to prevent infestations and maintain a clean and comfortable environment for their customers and employees. 1. Educate Staff on Bed Bugs When it comes to preventing bed bugs in your establishment, one of the most crucial factors is staff awareness and training. Educated and vigilant staff members play a crucial role in early detection, effective cleaning protocols, regular inspections, proper handling of infested items, and compliance with regulations. Here are some important areas to train your hotel staff in: Early Detection: Bed bugs are notorious for their ability to hide in tiny cracks and crevices, making them difficult to spot. However, trained staff members can identify early signs of infestation, such as blood stains on sheets, dark spots on mattresses, or the presence of live bugs. By catching the problem early on, you can take immediate action to prevent further spread. Cleaning Protocols: Thorough and regular cleaning is essential to eliminating hiding places for bed bugs. Train staff members in proper cleaning techniques, including vacuuming and steam cleaning, to eliminate any potential homes for these pests. Additionally, they should be aware of the importance of washing bedding and linens at high temperatures to kill any bed bug eggs or nymphs. Make sure you explain the differences between sanitizing and disinfecting surfaces. Inspection and Maintenance: Regular inspections of furniture, bedding, and other areas where bed bugs are likely to hide are crucial. Staff members should be trained to look for signs of infestation during these inspections and report any findings to management. Additionally, they should be aware of the importance of promptly addressing any maintenance issues, such as cracks in walls or furniture, that could serve as hiding places for bed bugs. Handling of Infested Items: In the unfortunate event of a bed bug infestation, staff members must know how to handle infested items properly. They should be trained in the appropriate procedures for safely bagging and disposing of infested bedding or furniture. This will help prevent further spread of bed bugs and protect both staff and guests from potential bites. Awareness of Regulations: Depending on your location, there may be specific rules and regulations regarding bed bug prevention in commercial establishments. Staff members should be familiar with these regulations to ensure compliance and avoid any potential legal issues. This may include guidelines on reporting infestations, proper documentation, and required pest control measures. What Do Bed Bugs Look Like on a Mattress? Identifying bed bugs on a mattress can be challenging as they are experts at hiding in small crevices and cracks. However, some signs can help you determine if your mattress is infested: Live Bed Bugs: Adult bed bugs are visible to the naked eye and can be found crawling on the mattress surface. They are about 4-5 mm in length and have a distinct reddish-brown color. Bed bugs are most active during the night, so inspecting your mattress during the early morning hours may increase your chances of spotting them. Shed Skins: As bed bugs grow and mature, they shed their exoskeletons, leaving behind molted skins. These skins are translucent and can be found near hiding spots on the mattress, such as seams, tufts, and folds. Finding multiple shed skins is a strong indication of a bed bug infestation. Fecal Stains: Bed bugs leave behind dark, rust-colored stains on mattresses, sheets, and other surfaces they encounter. These stains are digested blood and are often found in clusters or rows. If you notice small, black dots on your mattress, it could be a sign of bed bug activity. Eggs and Eggshells: Bed bug eggs are tiny and difficult to spot with the naked eye. They are about 1 mm in size and are usually white or translucent. Look for these eggs and their empty shells in the seams, crevices, and other hidden areas of your mattress. Musty Odor: Bed bugs release a musty odor, often described as a sweet with berry essence. If you notice an unusual smell coming from your mattress, it could be an indication of a bed bug infestation. 2. Invest in Bed Bug Resistant Bed Supplies One of the most effective ways to prevent bed bugs is to use bed bug-resistant bed supplies. These specially designed products are made with materials that are difficult for bed bugs to penetrate, making it harder for them to establish a presence in your establishment. Look for bed bug-resistant mattress encasements, box spring encasements, and pillow protectors to create a barrier against these pests. Bed Bug Encasements and Mattress Protectors Bed bug encasements and mattress protectors act as a barrier between the mattress and potential bed bug infestations. Made from durable materials such as polyester or polypropylene, these covers are designed to completely encase the mattress, preventing bed bugs from accessing the fabric and hiding in the seams. Look for encasements that are specifically labeled as bed bug-resistant and have been tested to ensure their effectiveness. Bed Bug Proof Box Spring Covers Similar to mattress encasements, bed bug-proof box spring covers are essential for protecting the foundation of the bed. These covers are constructed with the same bed bug-resistant materials and are designed to fully encase the box spring, leaving no gaps for bed bugs to enter or escape. By combining mattress encasements with box spring covers, you create a comprehensive bed bug barrier. Bed Bug Resistant Bed Frames Bed frames with bed bug-resistant features are another important component in preventing bed bug infestations. These frames are typically constructed with materials that bed bugs cannot easily climb, such as metal or plastic. Additionally, some bed frames have a smooth, seamless design, eliminating potential hiding spots for bed bugs. When selecting a bed frame, look for models that are specifically labeled as bed bug-resistant. Bed Bug Resistant Pillow Encasements In addition to encasements and covers, choosing bed bug-resistant pillow encasements can further enhance your bed bug prevention efforts. Bed bug-resistant pillowcases are made from tightly woven fabrics that prevent bed bugs from penetrating the material. They’re also designed to be easily cleaned and laundered, making it easier to eliminate any potential bed bug hitchhikers. What Material Do Bed Bugs Not Like? By incorporating synthetic fabrics, vinyl and plastic, metal, leather, and hardwood into your hotel bedding and furniture choices, you can create an environment that is less attractive to bed bugs and promote a healthier, bed bug-free space. While these materials don’t eliminate the risk of bed bug infestations, they can help reduce the likelihood of an infestation and make it easier to detect and treat any potential issues. Synthetic Fabrics: Bed bugs are not attracted to synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and rayon. These materials are less porous and do not provide the same hiding spots and crevices that natural fabrics do. By opting for bedding and furniture made from synthetic fabrics, you can create a less hospitable environment for bed bugs. Vinyl and Plastic: Bed bugs have a difficult time crawling on smooth surfaces, such as vinyl and plastic. These materials are not only easy to clean but also provide fewer hiding places for bed bugs. Consider using vinyl mattress covers, plastic furniture covers, or even vinyl or plastic furniture to discourage bed bug infestations. Metal: Bed bugs have a hard time climbing smooth surfaces, and metal is no exception. Furniture with metal frames, such as beds and chairs, can make it challenging for bed bugs to access hiding spots. Additionally, metal bed frames often have fewer crevices and seams where bed bugs can hide, making them a less attractive option for these pests. Leather: Leather is another material that bed bugs are not particularly fond of. The smooth surface of leather makes it difficult for bed bugs to crawl and hide. Incorporating leather furniture, such as sofas or chairs, into your space can help deter bed bugs from settling in. Hardwood: Bed bugs prefer materials that provide hiding spots and crevices, which is why hardwood is not their preferred choice. Furniture made from hardwood, such as oak or maple, has fewer seams and crevices compared to upholstered furniture, making it less appealing to bed bugs. 3. Have an Action Plan If you suspect the presence of bed bugs in your commercial establishment, it is crucial to have a well-defined action plan in place. By following the steps outlined below, you can effectively address the issue and help prevent the spread of bed bugs to other areas of your property. Notifying Management: As soon as your staff becomes aware of a possible bed bug infestation, they must inform management immediately. This will allow you to take the necessary steps to address the issue promptly and efficiently. Relocating Guests in Affected Rooms: Making every effort to relocate guests in rooms where bed bugs have been observed is crucial. Move them to unaffected rooms or, if necessary, to another accommodation altogether. Documenting Signs of Bed Bugs: Thoroughly document any signs of bed bugs that you come across. This includes noting where and when the bugs were observed, as well as any visible stains or eggs on bedding and furniture. Detailed documentation will be useful when implementing treatment strategies and communicating with pest control professionals. Quarantining Affected Rooms: To prevent the spread of bed bugs, it is essential to quarantine the rooms that may be affected. This includes the rooms where guests were relocated to, as bed bugs can easily hitch a ride on luggage or clothing. By isolating these rooms, you can contain the infestation and prevent it from spreading further. Launder and Inspect Linens: Wash all potentially infested linens, including bedding, towels, and curtains, in hot water and dry them on high heat. Inspect them carefully for any signs of bed bugs before returning them to use. Call in Pest Control Professionals: Contacting a pest control professional is crucial for a thorough assessment of the bed bug issue and the development of an effective treatment strategy. These professionals have the expertise and tools necessary to eradicate bed bugs and prevent future infestations. Follow their recommendations closely to ensure a successful resolution. Implement Preventive Measures: Once the infestation is under control, take steps to prevent future bed bug problems. Encase mattresses and box springs in bed bug-proof covers, repair any cracks or crevices in walls or furniture, and regularly vacuum and clean your establishment. 4. Implement a Traveler Awareness Program Traveler awareness programs can help hospitality businesses prevent bed bug infestations. These programs educate guests about the risks of bed bugs during their travels and provide tips on how to prevent bringing them into their accommodations. By educating your guests about bed bug prevention and providing them with the necessary tools, you can significantly reduce the risk of bed bug incidents. The program will also help boost guests’ confidence in your establishment and can earn positive online reviews. Here's how to implement a traveler awareness program: Develop Educational Materials: Create brochures, pamphlets, or posters that provide information on bed bug prevention. Include details on how to identify bed bugs, what to do if a guest suspects an infestation, and how to prevent bed bugs from spreading. Make sure the materials are easily accessible in common areas such as the lobby, guest rooms, and laundry facilities. Communicate with Guests: Upon check-in, provide guests with information about bed bug prevention and what to do if they suspect an infestation. Include this information in welcome packets or on informational cards placed in guest rooms. Consider adding a section on your website or in email communications that highlights your commitment to bed bug prevention. Establish a Reporting System: Encourage guests to report any suspected bed bug incidents promptly. Provide a dedicated phone number or email address for reporting concerns and ensure that all reports are handled discreetly and professionally. Respond to reports promptly and take appropriate measures to investigate and address the issue. Hotel Bed Bug Prevention FAQ As a hotel owner or manager, it is crucial to prioritize the prevention of bed bugs. These pests can cause significant damage to your reputation and result in costly lawsuits. To help you understand the best practices for preventing bed bugs in your hotel, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions. Can Bed Bugs Get through Zippers? Unfortunately, bed bugs can easily get in through a zipper thanks to their flat and oval-shaped bodies. Adult bed bugs are approximately the size of an apple seed, while nymphs (young bed bugs) are even smaller. Their bodies are incredibly flexible, allowing them to squeeze through openings as small as the width of a credit card. While they’re designed to close tightly, zippers often have small gaps or spaces between the teeth. These gaps may be barely visible to the naked eye, but they are more than enough for bed bugs to exploit. To prevent bed bugs from infiltrating through zippers, it is essential to take proactive measures. Encasing mattresses and pillows with bed bug-proof covers creates a physical barrier that denies bed bugs access. Can Bed Bugs Bite through Mattress Encasements? Bed bugs can bite through mattress encasements unless the fabric is bite-proof. This means that it should be constructed with a dense weave that is resistant to punctures. Bed bugs have a specialized mouthpart called a proboscis, which they use to pierce the skin and extract blood. Therefore, the fabric of the encasement must be strong enough to withstand these piercing attempts and prevent the bugs from reaching their food source. In addition to its fabric being bite-proof, the mattress encasement must cover the entire mattress or box spring. Bed bugs are notorious for their ability to hide in small cracks and crevices, so leaving any part of the mattress exposed could provide an entry point for these pests. Equally important is the proper installation of the mattress encasement. The encasement must be sealed tightly with no openings, gaps, or tears that bed bugs might escape through. Even the smallest opening can provide an opportunity for these pests to escape the encasement and continue infesting your sleeping area. How Long Do You Leave a Bed Bug Mattress Cover On? To ensure that all bed bugs and their eggs have died, experts recommend leaving the bed bug encasement on for at least one year. This extended period allows for the complete life cycle of the bed bugs to be disrupted and eradicated. Bed bugs go through several stages of development, including egg, nymph, and adult. By leaving the encasement on for a year, you can be confident that any eggs that may have been missed during initial treatment will have hatched and died off. Removing the encasement too soon may result in a re-infestation if any bed bugs or eggs are still present. During the year that you have the bed bug encasement on, it is essential to regularly inspect and monitor for any signs of bed bugs. This includes conducting visual inspections of the mattress and surrounding areas, as well as using bed bug traps or monitors to detect any activity. If you notice any signs of bed bugs, such as live bugs, eggs, or fecal stains, it is recommended to continue using the encasement until you are confident that the infestation has been eliminated. Back to Top Remember, prevention is always better than dealing with a full-blown infestation. By implementing these prevention strategies and training your staff, you can significantly reduce the risk of bed bugs in your hotel and protect your guests' comfort and satisfaction. Knowing that you’re taking extra precautions can attract travelers to your lodging establishment.