Bed bugs are tiny pests that have the ability to cause major fear for homeowners. Everyone has heard the stories or read articles that talk about widespread bed bug infestations in apartments and hotels. The stories sensationalize the infestations and make it seem like getting rid of bed bugs is next to impossible. It is true that bed bugs are difficult to eradicate once they infest your home. However, with the help of a bed bug expert it is possible to successfully eradicate bed bugs from your home. Heat treatment is a common and effective option for bed bug eradication. Knowing that there are options available for treating bed bugs may come as a relief but it does not mean you are okay with getting an infestation. Preventing bed bugs is an option that can save you a lot of frustration and sleepless nights. One of the most common times to develop a bed bug infestation is after a vacation. This is because you spend time in places that bed bugs are likely to be – hotels, airplanes, etc. You are at a high risk of bringing bed bugs home from your summer vacation. There are a few steps you can take to minimize that risk and keep your home free from bed bugs.
Carefully check your hotel for signs of bed bugs
A quick inspection of your bed at your hotel can allow you to catch signs of bed bug activity. Pull back the corner of the sheet and look along the edges of the bed and in crevices for bed bugs. Bed bugs are small, round, and brownish in color. If you actually see a bed bug, leave the room with your things right away and switch rooms or find another hotel. Dark spots on the sheets or mattress can also be a sign of bed bug activity. If you notice anything unusual on the mattress your best bet is to go and stay somewhere else.
Keep your luggage and other items off the floor and away from the bed
It is possible to miss signs of a bed bug infestation. These pests are small and prefer to spend the daytime out of sight. If you unknowingly stay in a hotel with bed bugs there are still things you can do to minimize your chances of bringing them home. Bed bugs can crawl into your luggage and on your clothes. They are small enough to hitch a ride back to your house if given the chance. Bed bugs spend the majority of their time in the area near the bed. Storing your luggage and other items off the floor and away from the bed will make it more difficult for bed bugs to climb on.
Taking these proactive steps can help in your efforts to avoid bringing bed bugs home from your summer vacation. It is still possible, however, to end up with bed bugs despite your best efforts. If you think you brought bed bugs back to your home from summer vacation, get help from the pros at San Joaquin Pest Control in Visalia.
