Does the fear of finding yourself in a hotel with bed bugs keeping you and your family from taking a vacation, shopping consignment stores or letting your kids attend sleepovers?
Here is the low down on what this phenomenon is all about and what you can do to prevent a run in with the Big B’s..
What is a bed bug?
Some people are hardly aware they have been bitten, but others suffer an allergic reaction and may develop painful swellings similar to those associated with mosquito or flea bites. The bites may itch for up to two weeks before healing, so resist the urge to scratch to prevent a secondary, bacterial infection. Wash the bites with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.,
What can you do to prevent them in your home?
Inspect new and used furniture before bringing it inside by examining tight spaces along the seams
One of the most important things you can do is to purchase a mattress and box spring encasements. This will help prevent bugs from nesting and laying eggs in the creases of the mattress.
What if you suspect there are bed bugs in your home?
Unless the breakout is severe you may not see bugs directly. Check mattresses, and edges of woodwork in the house for signs of infestation. If you suspect an infestation then call a bed bug professional who can verify and will be able to resolve the issue. You will not be able to get rid of bed bugs with typical bug sprays. The only way to get permanently rid of these pests will be via a bed bug professional.
What can you do to prevent them while traveling?
Choosing a hotel: Each state has a list of hotels that may be “on alert” for bed bugs. A site like Trip Advisor will also have links to this info and better yet customer reviews are also good for guiding hotel choices.
If possible, use hard sided luggage and store it on the luggage rack – not the bed or floor.
Protect clothing by keeping them in air tight sealed plastic bags.
or purchase Bug Zip Garment Bags
What is a bed bug? Source: www.odh.ohio.gov
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