Many people travel during the holidays to visit family. Bed bugs and holiday travel are becoming more of a well-known pair. One of the most common places to pick up bed bugs is in hotel rooms and you may not know it till they’ve made themselves at home in your own bed.
If you stay in a hotel or motel, keep G&H bed bug tips in mind:
While you’re getting ready for your trip, we suggest packing a small flashlight to help investigate your hotel bed and other areas around the room. Remember to start checking out the room as soon as you get there. You can start by not setting your luggage on the bed or carpeted floor, instead set it on a hard surface such as the bathroom counter or even setting it in the bathtub while you check out the room.
Under the mattress corners is where you’re likely find most of the signs of bed bugs:
Pull back the sheets and inspect the mattress seams, especially the corners. While using your handy flashlight, we also suggest moving or lifting the mattress to check underneath as bedbugs sometimes will be under the mattress.
- You’re looking for telltales signs of the rust colored spots, fecal matter and of course actual bed bugs
- Check the head board and inside of drawers of dressers and nightstands
- Inspect anything upholstered like chairs and curtains
- Look at the edges of the carpet for bed bugs, they can be anywhere in the room, but be sure to thoroughly inspect the carpet edges that are close to the bed
*If you see anything suspect, notify management and change rooms or establishments immediately! If you do need to change rooms, be sure that you do not move to a room adjacent and or directly above or below the suspected infested room. Bed bugs can easily catch rides of housekeeping carts, luggage, and even through wall sockets.
Remember that bed bugs are not picky and will hitchhike a ride with anyone. After your trip, inspect your suitcases before bringing them into your home. You can use a vacuum or a garment steam cleaner before putting the luggage up for storage. Using a steam cleaner will kill any bed bugs or eggs that may have stowed away with you. Don’t just put your clothes into a hamper; take them from the luggage directly to the washer (even clothes that may not have been worn). Wash all clothing in hot water. The longer you wait, the more time they will have to get established, which can slow down the elimination process.
Call G&H Bed Bug for all your pest needs! (208)471-8787
