When you travel during the holidays, you may want to bring home some reminders of your vacation, like photos, videos and souvenirs. However, there’s one thing you want to avoid bringing home at all costs: bed bugs. Unfortunately, bed bugs and travel go hand-in-hand. With hotels and vacation homes cycling through people, there are plenty of opportunities for bed bugs to find their way in. Then, after a vacation, bed bugs hitch a ride on luggage and continue the cycle in people’s homes. Here are some tips for avoiding inviting bed bugs into your home after traveling:
Inspect Your Accommodations
Check the bed and surrounding furniture for signs of bed bugs, such as dark spots or shed skins. Use a flashlight to inspect cracks and crevices in the room, as bed bugs can hide in these areas. Keep your luggage off the floor, and use luggage racks or suitcase stands to prevent bed bugs from hitching a ride.
Pack Wisely
Use hard-sided luggage or bags with a smooth surface, as bed bugs are less likely to hide in these materials. Pack clothing in sealable plastic bags to prevent bed bugs from infesting your belongings. Avoid bringing used furniture or secondhand items into your home after traveling, as they could be infested with bed bugs.
Practice Good Hygiene
Wash clothing in hot water and dry on high heat after traveling to kill any bed bugs that may have hitched a ride. Shower before getting into bed to remove any bed bugs from your body. Keep your belongings organized and off the floor to prevent bed bugs from gaining access to your personal items when you first return home.
Be Proactive
Keep an eye out for signs of bed bugs during your travels, such as bites or blood stains on bedding. Notify management immediately if you suspect bed bugs in your accommodations. Seek professional help if you believe you have brought bed bugs home with you after traveling. These bugs multiply rapidly, so don’t wait. Call the pros at the first sign of an infestation.
Bed bugs can put a damper on your holiday vacation. Command Pest Control, a veteran-owned company with a 20-year history of exceptional service, is here to help with your bed bug problems. We offer professional pest removal services in Broward County. Call us at 954-943-0008 or contact us online to schedule a free inspection.
