We all enjoy taking summer vacations with our families, and it’s easy enough to find clean and comfortable accommodations suitable for nearly any budget. You can learn a lot by reading reviews on Google and TripAdvisor, and you should also take a few minutes to inspect your room at check-in and ensure that it meets your standards. It’s a little terrifying to imagine bed bugs crawling all over you and your family as you sleep, but they’re no match for travelers who take a few basic precautions!

The Bug Man has been Arkansas’ most trusted pest control company since 1976, and we’re always a phone call away if you need to schedule treatment for bed bugs or other pests. Bed bugs aren’t known to transmit disease, but their bites are certainly unpleasant and they can lead to allergic reactions in some individuals. Your best defense against bed bugs is a good offense, and these easy tips will help you prevent an infestation in your home.

Inspect all bed linens and upholstery as soon as you check in. Bed Bugs are tiny insects approximately ⅛” in size that feed on human and animal blood, and you’re more likely to spot bloodstains than bugs. Pull back the corners of the bedding and linens to look for evidence of bed bug activity, particularly within the piping of the mattress. If your room has a couch or upholstered chairs, remove the cushions and inspect underneath. If you see bloodstains, ask for a different room or seek alternate accommodations.

Properly store luggage and laundry. Bed bugs can’t fly, and they’re poor, poor climbers. Be sure to store your suitcase on the luggage rack in your room, and avoid leaving towels or soiled linens on the floor. You should also inspect the corners and lining of your luggage for stowaways before you pack up and check out.

Take a few additional precautions when you get home. Wash all of your clothing in the hottest water possible as soon as you get home, whether you wore it or not. To keep yourself safe at home, vacuum your mattress and box springs each time you change your sheets, and keep your bedspread and throw pillows off the floor.

If you have any questions or if you need bed bug treatment services contact us online, or at 501-663-9464.