When a concern arises about bed bugs during a trip, the most useful information is knowing what to look for, who to contact, and what to do next. Ambiente Hostel We take all reports of possible bed bugs seriously and ask that you notify us immediately during your stay.
This article explains the procedure and our guarantee. It does not replace an inspection nor does it allow you to confirm an infestation from a mark on the skin or a review published on the internet.
What we implemented in Ambiente Hostel
We have a prevention and response protocol, with a team trained to recognize suspicious signs, communicate the situation, and follow up on verifications. Monitoring is part of our job, even when there is no complaint from a guest.
Heat treatment with Polti Cimex Eradicator
We invested in a Polti Cimex Eradicator We use a specific steam equipment for bed bug control. We utilize it in our heat treatment protocol, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Steam is part of the measures we have adopted; it does not replace professional inspection or assessment when necessary.
Scheduled prevention and professional support
We have an agreement with a pest control company and a schedule of preventative interventions, including in common areas. These measures aren’t solely based on receiving a complaint: we maintain prevention and monitoring as part of the hostel’s operation.
What do we do when someone reports a suspicion?
We ask that you notify us during your stay, we check the bed and room, and document any available evidence. When necessary, we involve our professional provider to assess the situation and guide the response. If an infestation affecting the guest’s accommodation is confirmed, we apply the guarantee explained below.
Why is there so much talk about bed bugs when traveling?
In 2023, French authorities brought renewed public attention to the issue. ANSES addressed the problem in the context of mobility and insecticide resistance. This does not mean that any accommodation in Lisbon is affected, nor does it allow for conclusions to be drawn about a specific room.
According to the CDC, these insects can be transported in luggage and other objects and can occur in different types of accommodations. The category or price of an establishment, by itself, does not exclude the possibility of a problem.
A suspicion needs to be verified.
If you notice anything suspicious in the bed or bedroom, please inform the team. If possible and safe, show them the location and take a photograph to help document what you saw. There is no need to wait until the next morning to report a concern.
Skin marks alone do not identify the cause. The CDC states that the reaction to bites can take time to appear. Therefore, inspecting the area and available evidence is important to assess the situation, without jumping to conclusions before verifying.
Simple baggage care tips
The EPA recommends observing the bed and surrounding areas, using a luggage rack when available, and keeping bags away from the bed. These are useful precautions when traveling, not a way to diagnose accommodation.
If you suspect an infestation, ask the team for guidance before moving objects or applying products. The aim is to allow for an inspection and an appropriate response, including calling our professional pest control provider when necessary.
Our guarantee against bed bugs.
Our Bed Bug Guarantee
We take every report of possible bed bugs seriously.
If you notice anything suspicious during your stay, please inform our team immediately. We will inspect the bed and room and, when necessary, involve our professional pest-control provider.
If an infestation affecting your accommodation is confirmed, we will refund:
- the night immediately preceding your report; and
- all remaining unused nights of your reservation.
The issue must be reported while you are staying with us so that we have a reasonable opportunity to inspect and document the situation.
A report made after completing the entire stay does not by itself establish that an infestation was present during the stay. We review each case based on the available evidence and inspection findings.
This guarantee is additional to any rights you may have under applicable consumer law.
How to contact the Ambiente during the stay
Speak to the team at reception or contact us through the channels indicated in the app. Ambiente Hostel You can also write to info@ambientehostel.pt. Identify the room and describe what you observed so we can investigate the situation.
To familiarize yourself with the accommodation before arrival, please consult the room and common areas gallery and the terms of stay. Clear information and communication during your stay help the team respond to any issues while you can still identify them on-site.