How do bed bugs spread?

Bed bugs are a growing problem in the United States. In fact, the National Pest Management Association estimates that over 25 million homes in the United States have been infested with bed bugs at some point in the past few years. One of the reasons bed bugs are so difficult to control is because they can spread so easily – and you’re especially at risk if you’ve traveled recently. These minuscule pests can hitch a ride on your luggage, clothing, or furniture and make their way into your home without you even knowing it.

Understanding how these elusive insects travel and infest new areas is crucial for effective prevention. So, let’s delve into the common ways that bed bug spread and arm ourselves with knowledge to protect our homes.

How Do Bed Bugs Get Inside My Home?

Bed bugs are small, wingless insects that feed on blood. They are a major nuisance, a source of lost sleep for many people, and difficult to get rid of. Bed bugs can spread from one place to another in a number of ways, including:

• Travel: Bed bugs can hitch a ride on luggage, furniture, or other belongings. We recommend inspecting your luggage and belongings for bed bugs as soon as you get home.
• Visiting friends or family: Bed bugs can be carried into your home on the clothing or belongings of friends or family members.
• Public transportation: Bed bugs can be found on public transportation, such as buses, trains, and airplanes. Be sure to check your seat and luggage for bed bugs before you sit down.
• Hotels: Bed bugs are a common problem in hotels. It’s very important to inspect your hotel room for bed bugs before you unpack your belongings.
• Used furniture: Bed bugs can be found in secondhand furniture. Beware of the possibility and be sure to check the seams furniture before purchasing.

Can I Guard Against Bed Bugs While Traveling?

Travel is by far the most common way new bed bug infestations start. Bed bugs can hitch a ride on luggage, furniture, or other belongings. This is why it is important to take steps to prevent bed bugs from hitching a ride back home with you after traveling.

• Look for signs of bed bugs in the hotel room: Blood spots, bed bug feces or eggshells may be found under the bed or in the seams, or the small reddish-brown insects themselves. If you see any signs of bed bugs, don’t unpack your belongings! Contact the hotel staff and request a new room.
• Keep your luggage off the floor when you’re traveling. Bed bugs can climb onto luggage and hitch a ride back home with you. They’re less likely to be able to get inside if your luggage is raised.
• When you get home from traveling, check your luggage and belongings for bed bugs. If you see any signs of bed bugs, wash your clothes and bedding on the highest heat setting possible. This will kill any bed bugs that may be hiding in your clothes or bedding.
• Vacuum your entire home, paying special attention to the seams of your mattress, box spring, and furniture. This will help to remove any bed bugs that may have already made their way into your home.

Lookout Pest Control Specializes in Reliable Bed Bug Treatment

Bed bugs are a growing problem, and they can be difficult to get rid of. [Company] has over 35 years of experience with bed bug extermination. We use a variety of methods to get rid of bed bugs, including heat treatment, chemical treatment, and steam cleaning. If you think you have a bed bug infestation, don’t hesitate to contact us. We will inspect your home and recommend the best treatment options for your specific situation.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We will help you get rid of bed bugs and get your life back to normal.