How Do You Prevent Bed Bugs?

A proactive approach and awareness of practices that can help prevent bed bugs in your home and business are critical to minimizing your risk of an infestation. Since bed bug infestations are not always obvious, it is important to adopt habits that reduce the likelihood of introduction.

Tips to Prevent Bed Bugs

Be Cautious with Used Items: Avoid purchasing or picking up "free" items, especially soft items like mattresses, couches, and chairs, which may harbor bed bugs. Hard surface items can be sanitized more effectively.
Use Mattress Encasements: For frequent travelers or those working in high-risk environments, encase mattresses and pillows in non-breathable materials to deter bed bugs.
Minimize Clutter: While cleanliness doesn’t prevent bed bugs, reducing clutter can make it harder for them to reproduce and find hiding spots.
Wash and Dry on High Heat: Washing and drying clothing and bedding at high temperatures kills bed bugs and their eggs. However, returning clean items to an infested area will re-contaminate them.
Travel Smart: Inspect hotel rooms for signs of bed bugs and store luggage on hard surfaces, such as bathroom tiles, away from bedding.
Act Quickly: If you suspect exposure to bed bugs, contact a pest professional trained in inspection, identification, and treatment.

Help! I Think I Have Bed Bugs

If you suspect bed bugs in your home or business, swift and appropriate action is essential to prevent the problem from escalating.

Steps to Address Bed Bugs

Identify the Problem: Collect samples if possible and store them in a sealed bag for identification by a pest professional. Note that bed bugs are often mistaken for other pests like carpet beetles or bat bugs.
Avoid Disturbing the Area: Do not remove furniture or attempt to clean thoroughly as this can spread the infestation. Use disposal encasements if removal is necessary.
Do Not Self-Treat: DIY treatments such as essential oils or over-the-counter products are largely ineffective and can worsen the problem. Professional-grade pesticides should only be handled by licensed professionals.
Use Bed Bug Interceptors: These are scientifically proven to detect infestations and can sometimes eliminate light infestations.
Seek Professional Help: A trained pest control professional can accurately identify and address the infestation.

I Saw a Bed Bug! Now What?

It is crucial to differentiate between an “introduction” and an “infestation” to determine the proper response.

Scenarios to Consider

Introduction: For example, a visitor with bed bugs enters your space. Address the affected areas promptly but note the space is not yet infested.
Infestation: Signs such as unexplained bites, blood marks on bedding, or visible eggs indicate a more severe issue requiring professional intervention.

In-Home Caregivers and Bed Bugs

Caregivers often work with clients who are particularly vulnerable to bed bug infestations. Here are some steps to protect yourself and assist your clients:

Notify Stakeholders: Report concerns to the client’s caregiver or case manager with photos if possible.
Minimize Exposure: Place personal items on hard surfaces, avoid soft furniture, and use disposable booties.
Clothing Protocols: Keep work clothing separate and wash/dry them on high heat immediately after returning home.
Recognize Signs: Look for bite marks, blood spots on sheets, and eggs on furniture.

Hoarding and Bed Bugs

Hoarding can exacerbate bed bug infestations by providing ample hiding places and making treatment more difficult. Addressing both hoarding and bed bugs simultaneously is crucial:

Engage Professionals: Seek a team experienced in handling bed bugs in hoarded environments.
Dispose of Items Safely: Seal items in commercial-grade bags before disposal. Do not donate infested items.
Preserve Valuable Items: Ensure that essential and sentimental belongings are treated and not discarded unnecessarily.

Proactive Bed Bug Plans for Businesses

Businesses, especially those in high-risk industries, should implement proactive strategies to prevent bed bug infestations:

Key Components of a Bed Bug Plan

Regular inspections and monitoring
Employee and resident education
Preventative treatments and elimination plans
Documentation of efforts to demonstrate diligence

Industries at Risk: Hotels, multi-family housing, nursing homes, transportation hubs, and medical facilities should prioritize prevention to protect their reputation and operations.

Bed Bug Shield Programs

For Airbnb and VRBO Owners

A single bed bug report can harm your business. The Bed Bug Shield program includes:

Quarterly inspections and treatments
Educational materials for housekeeping
Reduced treatment rates
Promotional materials to reassure guests

For Multi-Unit Housing

Multi-family properties are particularly vulnerable. The Bed Bug Shield program provides:

Regular inspections and monitoring
Proactive treatment strategies
Education for staff and residents
Documentation for landlords

Addressing bed bug issues promptly and effectively is essential for maintaining safe and comfortable environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. A proactive approach, combined with professional guidance, can help mitigate risks and provide peace of mind.