How do you work proactively against bed bugs?

Prevention at home

• Declutter: Bed bugs love hiding in clutter, so keeping your home organized minimizes potential hiding spots.
• Protect your mattress: Use a bed bug-proof mattress and pillow encasements to prevent bed bugs from living in or on your mattress.
• Vacuum frequently: Vacuum carpets, mattresses, and furniture regularly, and empty the vacuum immediately into a sealed bag outside.
• Seal cracks and crevices: Inspect and seal cracks in walls, baseboards, and around outlets where bed bugs might hide.
• Monitor with traps: Place these under your bed or mattress to spot (and eliminate) invading bed bugs. Make sure you buy an active trap.

When traveling

• Inspect your room: Upon entering a hotel, check the mattress seams, headboard, and furniture for signs of bed bugs (look for small dark spots or live bugs).
• Keep luggage above the floor: Use luggage racks, not the floor or bed.
• Check for bites: This is probably the earliest sign of bed bugs. If you see bites, be extra careful when you get home.
• Isolate used clothes: Use sealable plastic bags for dirty laundry, which can attract bed bugs.

After traveling

• Check luggage: Inspect and vacuum your suitcase. If you encountered bed bugs during the trip, consider to put the suitcase in the freezer (if big enough).
• Wash clothes: Wash all clothes in hot water and/or dry on high heat.

Purchasing used items

Today, second-hand items, both furniture and clothing, are popular. However, this carries the risk of bringing home something “unwanted”.

• Avoid used mattresses: Never buy second-hand mattresses or upholstered furniture unless thoroughly inspected.
• Inspect furniture carefully: Look for signs of infestation in seams, joints, and crevices.
• Sanitize: Clean and vacuum all items before bringing them inside.

Early detection is key

• Watch for bites: Bed bug bites often appear in clusters or lines and are itchy, red welts.
• Look for signs: Check for fecal stains, shed skins, or eggs near mattress seams, bed frames, and furniture.

Respond quickly

• Act immediately: If you suspect bed bugs, isolate the affected area, and wash all bedding in hot water.
• Bed bug sniffing dog: You can confirm the presence of bed bugs with a trained dog. Google or check your preferred social media to find one.
• Professional help: Call a pest control expert promptly for inspection and treatment if needed.