How to Prevent a Bed Bug Infestation

As bed bugs make their return, you may be unfortunate enough to experience an infestation.

These pests are notoriously troublesome to get rid of, which is why prevention is the way to go. If you can prevent an infestation, you won’t have to go through the struggle that comes with trying to remove bed bugs from your home.

Fortunately, there are a few things that you can do to prevent a bed bug infestation on your own.

Triple-Check Everything

Before you bring something into your home that has been in someone else’s house, inspect it thoroughly. Make sure there are no signs of bed bugs.

This is especially important for used furnishings, such as couches, beds or mattresses, and chairs.

Some of the signs of bed bugs to look for include:

• Dark or rust-colored spots
• Bed bug excrement
• Shed skins
• Eggs
• A musty odor

When in doubt, don’t bring a used item into your home because these pests spread quickly.

Vacuum Often

Vacuuming is a great way to remove bed bugs from their hiding places around your home. Make sure you get into the corners and vacuum out your furniture as well to capture any hidden pests.

Once you finish, throw the bag away or empty the canister. You don’t want to risk them crawling right back out of the vacuum cleaner.

Be Careful at the Laundromat

If you use a laundromat to wash your clothes, take steps to avoid bringing home some unwanted guests that someone else may have left behind.

The heat from the dryer should be enough to kill any bed bugs that may be hidden on your clothing. To stay safe, place your clothes directly into a clean plastic bag before taking them home.

Tampa is on the list of the top 50 cities with a bed bug infestation. Therefore, it’s wise to be cautious about laundromats and places where people are bringing things that could be infested with bed bugs.

Use Mattress Covers

You can get special mattress covers made specifically to keep bed bugs out.

Using these is a great way to stop pests from getting into the hiding places in your bed. Plus, it makes it easy to spot if you do end up with an infestation.

If you’re particularly concerned, consider purchasing pillow and seat covers for all of your furniture.

Check Hotel Rooms

One of the most common places that people pick up bed bugs is in hotel rooms. As soon as you get to a hotel room, carefully inspect the mattress, furniture, and the edges of the room.

If you spot any signs of bed bugs, tell the management immediately and request a different room.

This goes for even nice hotels, as the price for a room doesn’t indicate how likely it is to have a bed bug infestation.

What to Do in Case of a Bed Bug Infestation

The best thing you can do if you think you may have an infestation on your hands is to get expert help.

Contact us today to keep your home pest free! We can inspect your house and, if your suspicions are confirmed, we can help you get rid of bed bugs fast.