💡 Quick Answer: Bed bugs are expert hitchhikers. They spread through luggage, used furniture, clothing, and even via common walls in multi-unit buildings. This guide covers the best prevention strategies for both travelers and homeowners.
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Key Tips & Information
- When staying in hotels: inspect mattress seams and headboard before unpacking
- Keep luggage on metal luggage racks — never on beds or carpet
- After travel, immediately wash and dry all clothes on HIGH heat for 30+ minutes
- Vacuum luggage after every hotel stay and store in a sealed bag
- At home: use mattress and box spring encasements on all beds
- Seal cracks in walls and around outlets near beds
- Second-hand furniture is the #1 source of residential bed bug infestations — inspect carefully
- Learn to identify bed bugs: reddish-brown, flat, apple-seed shaped, 1-7mm
When to Call a Professional
If you spot any signs of bed bugs — bites, blood spots, dark feces stains, or live bugs — call a professional immediately. Bed bug infestations worsen rapidly and DIY treatments rarely eliminate an entire infestation. Heat treatment by a professional is the most effective method.
Learn more: professional bed bug treatment | bed bug extermination in New York City
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