What a hairy situation.
Experts have warned weary travelers not to use hotel hairdryers, claiming they are “breeding grounds for bacteria and fungi.”
“Using a hairdryer riddled with bacteria and germs does pose health risks and can be detrimental to your hair health,” trichologist Jacqui McIntosh explained to The Mirror.
Dust, mold and debris are “troublemakers for your scalp” that can cause dandruff, hair loss and unwanted texture.
“When these pesky microorganisms find their way onto your hair and scalp, they can spark infections and irritations, disrupting your hair follicles and slowing down healthy growth,” McIntosh continued.
If the hair dryer is rarely cleaned, the vents can become blocked and affect the heat output of the device, potentially leading to hair breakage and damage.
“Neglected hair dryers are time bombs waiting to go off,” McIntosh said. “Debris buildup inside the device spells overheating, increasing the risk of singeing your hair or scalp.”
While you may want to bring your own hair dryer on vacation, you can use hotel hair dryers for an unconventional hack: eradicating bed bugs.
Experts say that blowing air at the hottest setting on the seams of the mattress and headboard â where the critters often hide â since adult bugs die at temperatures 119 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
In addition to the mattress and fabric headboards, comforters can harbor dirt from previous guests as they often aren’t washed as regularly as sheets, others have warned. Similarly, couches, shower curtains and carpets are also home to bacteria and other grime.
