The holidays will be here before you know it. If you're going to be spending time with friends or relatives, you need to protect yourself against bed bug infestations. It only takes one small bed bug to wreak havoc on your home. The last thing you want is to carry bed bugs home with you. Unfortunately, there's no way to guarantee that the homes you'll be staying in won't have a bed bug problem That's why it's crucial that you take steps to protect yourself. Here are three steps you can take that will prevent bed bugs from following you home from the holidays.
Bring Your Own Linen
If you're going to be staying with family and friends, bring your own linen. Find out what size beds they have in their guest rooms, and bring some sheets along with you. Just tell them that you and your kids have skin allergies that require a specific type of material or detergent use. When you arrive, simply place your own sheets on the beds so you can rest easy that you're not coming in contact with bed bugs. When you get ready to leave, place your sheets in a plastic bag, and wash them in hot water as soon as you get home.
Protect Your Suitcase
When you're traveling, one of the worst things you can do is place your suitcases on beds, upholstered furniture, or carpeting. That's one of the easiest ways for bed bugs to hop into your suitcases and follow you home. Instead, always place your suitcases on hard, smooth surfaces, such as counters or table tops. If you do need to place your suitcases on the ground, place a plastic bag under them first. This will provide a protective layer between your suitcases and the bed bugs.
Keep Your Clothing in Bags
While you're packing for your trip, be sure to place your clothing in protective bags before packing them into the suitcase. Vacuum storage bags are the best way to protect your clothing and prevent bed bug infestations. You can vacuum seal each individual outfit, which will also provide you with additional room in your luggage. Once you wear an outfit, place it back in the bag. When you get home, wash all your clothing to make sure you kill any bugs that might have traveled with you.
Don't bring unwanted gifts home this holiday season. The travel tips provided here will help you avoid unwanted bed bugs. If you do bring bed bugs home with you, call an exterminator who offers bed bug control services. Bed bugs are no laughing matter.
Share3 October 2017
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