Bed bugs can turn a relaxing vacation or a sweet thrift store find into a dire bed bug infestation.
Use these tips to aid bed bug prevention in your home and beyond!
Keep your home clean
Regularly clean and vacuum your home, paying special attention to bedrooms, mattresses, and upholstered furniture. Use a stiff brush to scrub seams and crevices where bed bugs may hide. A clean home is the most important step in Bed Bug prevention as infestation is apparent if it occurs.
Reduce clutter
Minimize the number of hiding places for bed bugs by decluttering your home. Clear out any unnecessary items, especially in bedrooms.
Inspect second- hand furniture
Before purchasing and bringing home used furniture and mattresses, carefully inspect for any signs of bed bugs. Signs include live bugs, fecal stains or shed skin.
Encase mattresses and box springs
Use special bed bug-proof encasements to cover your mattresses and box springs. These encasements prevent bed bugs from entering, escaping and make it easier to detect and treat any infestation.
Be cautious when travelling
When staying in hotels or other accommodations, inspect the bedding and furniture for signs of bed bugs. Keep your luggage elevated and away from the bed, and avoid placing it on upholstered surfaces.
Avoid picking up items from the street
Refrain from bringing discarded furniture or mattresses found on the street into your home, these items have the highest probability to be infested with bed bugs.
Seal cracks and crevices
Seal any cracks, crevices, or gaps in walls, baseboards, any furniture to eliminate potential hiding spots for bed bugs.
Regularly wash and dry bedding
Wash your bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water and dry them on high heat. The high temperature kills bed bugs and their eggs.
Be cautious with used clothing
When buying and thrifting used clothing be sure to wash thoroughly and inspect for signs of bed bugs as they can hitch a ride on clothing.
Monitor for signs of infestation
Regularly inspect your home for signs of bed bugs such as dark stains on bedding, small reddish-brown spots on mattress or furniture, or the presence of live bed bugs.
Bed bug prevention is an ongoing process that requires vigilance and regular maintenance. If you suspect an infestation, contact the experts at 1st Pest Control and request a free quote today!
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