With the Fall school semester in full swing, the likelihood of bed bug invasions within homes has an increased risk. Bed bugs normally infest a home after hitchhiking to a new location. With the spread of bed bug infestations across campuses, both reported and unreported, it is important that college students take certain precautions to avoid bringing them back home for the holidays.
Inspect Mattresses
Any time sheets are set to go onto a dormitory bed, it is important to inspect the mattress for signs of bed bug infestation. Normally, bed bugs can be identified by checking the mattress seams for staining or small black spots. It is important to check the rest of the room as well before unpacking any clothes. The main areas to check for bed bugs, other than the mattress, are headboards and furniture.
Keep the Floor Clean
Like any other insect, bed bugs may be found traveling from one item in the room to another. Bed bugs can be found within cracks and crevices that easily conceal their existence. Leaving clothes or other items on the floor can increase their ability to hitchhike to new items and further spread their numbers. Linens and clothing that have been on the floor should be washed regularly in hot water and dried with high heat to kill any eggs that may have been attached to them.
Pack Cautiously
Before returning home for the holidays, inspect all clothing and items that will return before packing them to ensure they are bed bug-free. This means all clothing, bedding and suitcases should be properly disinfected and washed prior to packing. Remember, though bed bugs are normally found in beds, they can be found in almost any item that offers concealment. This includes the seams of a suitcase!
If you are dealing with a bed bug problem at your home or business, give us a call to start a no-obligation bed bug evaluation. The talented technicians at Arrow Exterminators can identify any type of pest and the best course of treatment to get rid of it. We’ll create a custom pest control plan to make sure we eliminate every last one from your home and keep them away for good!
