As my friends and I were discussing the possibility of a girls’ getaway weekend, I decided that it was time to disclose one of my greatest phobias. Hotel Rooms!!!! The very thought of a sleeping in a hotel makes me cringe. You never know what has happened in that room, who has been sick, or what little critters they have left behind.

Generally, hotel maids leave rooms looking presentable and clean. But research has proven that looks can be very deceiving. Of course, most people are aware that a hotel bathroom isn’t as clean as home, but are they aware of where else the germs are hiding? While the showers and toilets are scrub after each patron’s stay, other surfaces are not so lucky. The sinks, floors, and light switches are seldom disinfected and can easily be carrying the last person’s flu germs on them. Even the simple act of walking barefoot in the bathroom could have you taking home a new case of athlete’s foot.

The sleeping area is not any better. Although the sheets are laundered after each person’s visit, the bedspread and comforters are seldom cleaned. And the mattresses, of course, cannot be cleaned. Therefore they are the home to many critters that you may or may not be able to see. Although the common dust mites are too small for our eyes to see, bed bugs are just big enough. If you pull down the sheets in your hotel room and look closely, you may be able to make out some tiny red or brown spots. Those are your friendly neighborhood bed bugs. If you suspect you see them, but aren’t sure, grab a hair dryer and point it at the mattress. Bed bugs are attracted to heat and as they cluster together they will be easier to identify.

When planning a vacation, it would be smart to include some disinfectant wipes to your packing list. The wipes may save you from picking up a virus that is lurking on the doorknobs, remote control, ice bucket, telephone, or lamps. A simple wipe down of the hard surfaces may prevent your vacation from being spoiled.