Summer vacation season is officially in full swing. Unfortunately, that also means an uptick in bed bugs. If you’ve ever had them before, you know how psychologically traumatic the experience can be. We’re trying to help you prevent that from happening. We put together some best bed bug best practices for you to review before you get on that plane or check in to your airbnb. Check it out.
Bed Bug Best Practices
Know what you’re looking for.
Despite their name, bed bugs don’t just live in beds. The excellent hiders are often found in nightstands, inside picture frames, in the folds of drapery and so many other places within the vicinity of a warm-blooded host. This means humans and pets are both susceptible to bed bug bites. This minute-long video shows you all the stages of a bed bug’s lifecycle so you know what the bug looks like in all of its cryptic forms.
Be aware of where you set your belongings down!
Bed bugs transfer from one place to another on purses, suitcases, bags, coats, and other personal belongings. Be mindful, especially while in public places, of where you set your things down. Public transportation, cabs, and airplane seats all have upholstery folds that bed bugs would love to stow away in. When you go to a party at someone’s house, think twice before putting your coat or purse on the bed.
3. When you check into a hotel, Airbnb, or any other accommodation, do a thorough inspection BEFORE bringing your luggage in!
The bathtub (if there is one) or the shower are great places to set your stuff while you scope the place out if you already lugged all your stuff in. The reason is because they’re normally tiled or white so you can see anything in there before setting your stuff down. They also prefer wood and cloth as opposed to metal or cold tile. Remember they detect CO2 emissions (what we breathe out) and heat signatures. This infographic shows you all the places to look and clues to look for. Check it out.
Dealing with bed bugs is not fun, and they are definitely not a DIY pest. Don’t take it on yourself…give us a call! We’re here for you!!
Your Friends at Franklin