It is safe to say that spring is a very busy time of year for many of us. There always seems to be something to do, and places to go. College graduations are happening all over the country, kids are getting anxious for the end of the school year, and many of us are taking some much-deserved vacation time and traveling to some of our favorite spots whether it be a resort with white sand beaches, a theme park, or a mountain retreat. You can always count on airports and train stations being very crowded this time of the year with travelers.
That also means that bed bugs will be traveling in the coming weeks, and pest control companies all over the country will experience a whole new crop of bed bug infestation calls from panicked clients. The more we travel the more chance that we bring home souvenirs that we never intended from our trip, and we are not talking about sunburn, either. The bed bug has been called the world’s best hitchhiker, and they have certainly earned the title. These pesky bugs are well adapted to sneak into luggage and clothing without anyone having any idea that they are there. They can be found pretty much everywhere. Hotels and motels, hospitals, airports, and dorms, even the grocery store might have a few bed bugs that were innocently left behind by someone who had no idea they had stowaways in their pocket.
When traveling, it is essential that you take the time to protect yourself. When checking in, don’t be afraid to inspect the room before you unpack a bag, even if it looks immaculate. Remember, cleanliness has absolutely nothing to do with bed bugs. Check under the sheets and mattress pad carefully for bugs, blood stains, or black spots that could be eggs. Check all around the headboard and around each and every crevice of the furniture in the room. When unpacking, keep the luggage off the floor and consider keeping your clothing stored in sealable plastic bags.
Even if the inspection turned up nothing, taking proper precautions when returning home should also become a habit. Bed bugs could have found their way in at any point while traveling. Unpack immediately and wash all the clothing and washable items in hot water. Then check every piece of luggage carefully and make sure to haul out the vacuum to clean it thoroughly before it is put away until next time. It might seem like overkill, but taking the time to protect your home can save you some serious headaches later.
As careful as we all try to be when it comes to preventing bed bugs, these pests can still find their way in. Protect your home by occasionally checking for signs of a bed bug infestation. If you suspect that you have bed bugs give us a call at Parkway Pest Services. Bed bugs are not a pest that you will be able to deal with without professional help. Our staff is well versed on just what they need to look for when they inspect for bed bugs. Then, we will work with you to figure out the most effective way to target the problem and eliminate any bugs that may be hiding. Together, we can take back your home from bed bugs.