‘If Only I Could Go Back In Time And Shake Her’: Woman’s Thrifting Trip Turns Into a Bedbug Nightmare
UNITED STATES – A viral TikTok video has ignited discussion across the country after a woman revealed how a routine thrift store visit turned into a bedbug infestation nightmare. The video, shared by TikTok user @matteaing, began as a cheerful thrift haul before taking a shocking turn that has left many Americans rethinking how they handle secondhand clothing and furniture.
The Thrift Haul That Went Terribly Wrong
In the clip, Mattea is seen trying on cozy sweaters, smiling as she showcases her finds in front of a mirror. But viewers were caught off guard when she added on-screen text that read, “None of these sweaters were worth the bed bugs.” In her caption, she added, “If only I could go back in time and SHAKE HER.”
What appeared to be an ordinary shopping moment became a warning about the unseen risks of thrifting. Within hours, her post spread widely, with thousands of comments from viewers sharing their own experiences and precautions when shopping secondhand.
Experts Say Bedbugs Can Hitchhike on Clothing and Furniture
Pest control specialists confirm that bedbugs can easily travel through clothing, upholstery, and other soft materials. Even clean or high-end stores can become carriers if infested items are donated or transported through shared delivery trucks or warehouses.
“Bedbugs are persistent and highly mobile,” one expert explained. “They can cling to seams, tags, or fabric folds and go unnoticed until they’re in your home.”
The insects, typically small, brownish, and shaped like apple seeds, often leave tiny black or rust-colored spots on fabric. Once they establish themselves in furniture or clothing, removal becomes difficult and often requires professional treatment.
@matteaing If only I could go back in time and SHAKE HER 😭😭
How Shoppers Can Protect Themselves
Officials recommend washing and drying all thrifted or donated clothing immediately upon purchase. High heat kills bedbugs at every life stage, including eggs. For delicate items, experts advise at least a short, hot dryer cycle to reduce risk.
For secondhand furniture and decor, shoppers should perform a thorough visual inspection before bringing anything home. Bedbugs love hidden crevices and upholstery seams, and can survive for weeks without feeding.
Many experienced thrift enthusiasts now refuse to try on clothing in-store. One commenter under Mattea’s video wrote, “I never try on at the thrift. I wash everything first, then try on at home.” Another added, “As someone who also got bed bugs from a thrift find… I was ready to throw my entire house away.”
A Cautionary Tale for Thrift Lovers
While thrifting remains a sustainable and cost-effective shopping choice, Mattea’s story has reminded shoppers to stay alert, clean items promptly, and be cautious with secondhand goods. Bedbugs are not limited to thrift stores — infestations have been reported in movie theaters, hotels, rideshares, and even department stores.
For many viewers, the video served as a valuable wake-up call to take small but essential precautions that can prevent major home infestations.
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