Bed bugs are seasoned hitchhikers, moving from an infested site to their new destination virtually undetected. This frequently occurs during traveling and springs up in luggage, furniture, and bedding. Bed bugs feed and breed quickly, so they’ll last months at a time, all while creating a new population that will spread from your bed to the rest of your home. If you’re concerned about bed bug control, here are some easy ways to prevent these unwanted visitors.

Be Cautious in Public Areas

Whether you’re in an airport or a laundry facility, take extra precaution with your clothing, bedding, and other fabrics. These are two of the most common places bed bugs spread, so leave everything carefully sealed in your suitcase — don’t leave that comfy blanket or coat resting on top.

When transporting items to the laundry, store them in plastic bags. Rather than folding anything at the laundry mat, place it back into a plastic bag, and fold it at home; this prevents contact with others’ infested loads and surfaces that could contain bugs. If you’re concerned, always dry on high heat; this kills bed bugs and could stop a potential infestation before it begins.

Examine Secondhand Items

When you’re buying secondhand furniture, especially a bed or a couch, examine it closely before purchase. If you notice any signs of bed bugs — crusts, specks of blood, or the insects themselves — don’t purchase the item! If possible, get it examined by a professional exterminator before purchase. This way, you know exactly what you’re getting. No deal is worth bringing bed bugs into your home. 

Use Protective Covers

For the highest level of protection, encase your mattresses and box springs with a protective cover. These seal in your sleeping surfaces, reducing hiding spots for bed bugs. If some are already inside, they’ll suffocate within the cover. Look for a high-quality product that’s resistant to tearing, and rest easy knowing that your mattress is safe from bed bugs — along with the painful, uncomfortable itching they cause.

While a few simple steps can help prevent bed bugs, if you’re concerned about infestation, turn to an exterminator you can trust. Bolivar, MO’s Collins Exterminating has the skills and expertise to eradicate any insect, from ants to termites and everything in between. These professionals use the latest technology and techniques, so you can rest assured that pests are gone for good. Visit the website for more information, or call (417) 326-2124 to request your estimate today!