It’s nearly one of the busiest times of year for families with children. Beginning in late August, roughly 20 million young adults will be attending colleges and universities across the country, most of which will be moving into a dorm or apartment housing. This period of high traffic is ideal for the transfer of bedbugs.
Prevent Bed Bugs In 4 Easy Steps
Once you've discovered a bed bug infestation, it can be nearly impossible to exterminate the critters without the help of a professional, so preventing the infestation in the first place is going to be your best course of action.
Keep the following tips in mind to help you keep your new dwelling bed bug-free:
- Inspect Thoroughly: You should always inspect your new apartment or dorm room meticulously before you move any of your belongings in. This is especially the case if there is provided, preexisting furniture, or if you are buying pre-owned furniture. Look for signs of blood or fecal stains on the mattress, particularly where it meets the headboard, as these are tell-tale signs of the presence of bed bugs. If you’re in a dorm, it’s best to do routine checks throughout the semester, simply because of the amount of residents/foot traffic present within buildings of this nature.
- Live Smart: Keep your bags and clothing off of the floor and sealed in a luggage bag until you are sure there are no bed bugs present. Seal your items in containers with tight-fitting lids after unpacking. Elevating your bed and buying a zipper-enclosed mattress cover are also effective means of prevention.
- Stay Clean: Keep your apartment or dorm room free of clutter and wash all cloth items (clothes, bedding, towels, etc.) regularly in warm/hot water. If you have carpets or rugs, vacuum them often to help deter infestation.
- Act Quickly: Should you find yourself suffering from a bed bug infestation, the best thing that you can do is to act as quickly as possible. If you’re in a dorm, alert your RA, or if you’re in an apartment, your landlord. Check your lease terms to ensure you’re taking all the proper steps in terms of documentation and notification protocol.