Don't let Christmas cost you more than you planned for.
Christmas is almost here. It seems like it comes quicker every year. We know that preparing for the big day can be quite stressful. Travel at any time of the year might make you want to jump off the house, but especially at Christmas. Having to worry about driving or flying and where to stay. Do you stay with family or rent a room? Trying to keep the kids engaged and out of your hair. There is one more really big problem you need to worry about though. Bed Bugs! Bed bug populations have been increasing exponentially the last few years.
There are some steps you can take to avoid any holiday disasters. The last thing you want to do is bring bed bugs to a friend or family members home or possibly back to your home. Follow these tips and Christmas should be a fun and bed bug free time!
- Before you do anything else do some research. Check out motels, hotels, and inn reviews online. Make sure there are no mentions of bed bug problems.
- Use one of several websites out there that track bed bugs at these places. Try www.bedbugreports.com or www.bedbugregistry.com
- Before you decide to give your credit card number, call and talk to an employee. Ask them if the room has had bed bugs or been treated for them. Some states don’t require them to let you know unless you ask. So Ask!
- Use airtight plastic bags to put all your clothes in before packing them in your suitcase or carry bags. Take some extra bags for items picked up while traveling.
- Don’t leave clothes laying loose on bed or floor in your room. Keep them in the bags and hang them from the rod in the closet. Only take down when you need to take something out.
- While on the plane, train or in a cab or bus watch for bed bugs. Look along seams of the chairs and the headrest.
- When you check into your room inspect the bed, headrest, screw holes of bed frame for bed bugs or eggs. Furniture, wall hangings, and outlets are items you should check around or behind as well. Do this before you ever bring the first item of clothing in.
- Know that you can get bed bugs anywhere even restaurants, movie theaters, or any other public building.
If you see any bed bugs, bed bug casings, or eggs ask to be moved to another room.
Now that you are in a room you are comfortable in. Keep your clothing in the airtight bags unless needed. Place dirty clothes in extra bags you took with you. Keep them off the floors and bedding, preferably hanging them from the rod in the closet or even in the bathroom. Now enjoy your time with family and friends!
Once you are back home, inspect all suitcases, bags, clothing, shoes, jackets and other items before bringing them inside. Any item that can be washed, should be washed in hot water, even if it’s new and unworn. Wipe down all luggage, shoes and carry bags. After washing your items dry on high heat for a good hour. This will help to kill any bed bug adults and eggs.
You will want to keep an eye on things for a bit. Watch for signs of insect bites which will look like red itchy welts. Some people react to bed bugs like a mosquito bite. Some people may not react at all. Hopefully you will have no problems and your Christmas vacation will have been a great success.
Should you notice any problems seek a professional pest control service right away. If you live in Upstate South Carolina or Columbia call us Toll-Free (866)442-7378 for a free quote. Our Bed Bug Heat Treatment System is safe for all family and pets but kills all bed bug adults, larvae, and eggs.
