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After a relatively mild winter in 2014-15, Mother Nature has come back in full force this year. We’ve already experienced some record low temperatures, and the winter isn’t even over yet. I can’t remember the last time I had to wear so many layers! And whenever I think of those layers, I’m always reminded of the dangers of bed bugs.
- Huh?
That might seem like a strange connection, but allow me to explain. Winter is a very dangerous time for picking up bed bugs, precisely because of the layers of clothes we wear. For instance, you might put on a thick peacoat in order to head to a friend’s home for a small dinner party. Once you arrive, you set the peacoat down on a pile of other coats in a spare bedroom. Totally innocent, right?
- Seems Like It…
But what if one of the other guests has bed bugs at home?
- …That’s Terrible For Them? I Don’t Understand the Connection.
Bed bugs are known to travel around on soft materials, which is how they spread throughout hotels – they’ll use carpet to move from room to room. And since a peacoat is usually made of wool, that’s a pretty soft material. See where this is going?
- They Could Jump on a Winter Coat.
Precisely. And now that winter coat has come into contact with other coats, and depending on how many bed bugs are present, a whole bunch of people might have bed bug problems now.
- Gross. What Can I Do to Protect Myself?
You probably don’t have to be paranoid at a friend’s house, but we recommend taking precautions whenever you’re in a high-traffic area, such as an airport or waiting room. Whenever you’re in a place with dozens of strangers, the odds of encountering someone with bed bugs goes way up.
- What Kind of Precautions?
Refrain from setting down any personal items (purses, backpacks, coats) on the floor or on seating areas. Additionally, if you travel during this time of year, always be careful in hotels. Leave your luggage in the restroom whenever you check-in somewhere new and inspect the bedding thoroughly for signs of bed bugs. That includes the linens, pillows, mattress, box spring, headboard and nightstand.
- Anything Else?
If you have more questions about bed bugs, I advise you to take a look around our blog. And if you ever need help dealing with a bed bug problem, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
