Do you suffer from unexplained bites that itch like crazy? Are your favorite clothes now full of holes, their seams falling apart where the fabric is accidentally pulled during laundering? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it’s possible that your bed has been overrun with bed bugs. These signs also could be a sign that you should get your home inspected by a local pest control company.
In fact, bed bug infestations are quite common in homes because they can thrive and spread quickly. Over a period of one to two months, an infestation can spread from the next room to the whole house. Bed bugs are very elusive as well, which makes it even more difficult for homeowners to identify and eliminate them. However, you can take steps to prevent bed bugs from invading your home and causing millions of dollars in damages.
How to Prevent Bed Bugs Entering Your Home?
Bed bugs can enter your home in many ways. Some people claim that they were bitten by bed bugs while traveling to another city. With this being said, there are ways you can prevent bed bugs from entering your home without going abroad. To prevent bed bugs from entering your home, you should:
- Inspect hotel rooms and other overnight lodgings before checking in. Bed bugs are very small and can hide in the smallest of places, including electrical outlets, picture frames, luggage, drawers, and nightstands.
- Avoid buying second-hand furniture or mattresses from places that have a history of bed bug infestation. Buy your furniture from a reputable source rather than buying used furniture for cheaper prices.
- If you have a pet that sleeps in your room, make sure you clean your mattress, pillow, and sheets at least once every three weeks. Additionally, check for any kind of stains that may be left by the pet and remove them immediately.
- Before purchasing new furniture or mattresses, inspect for any signs of bed bugs on used ones. Bed bugs can hide in tufts of hair on the bed frame and dresser and use them to travel from one place to another undetected.
- Do not leave luggage lying around, as this may provide bed bugs with hiding places until they grow strong enough to become visible again.
- Have your home inspected by trained professionals once every three to four months, even if you don’t notice any signs of infestation.