How to Prevent Bed Bugs

The old saying, "Don't let the bed bugs bite," is more than just a mother's goodnight. These creatures do exist, and they can be a real pain. They are rare, but once they're in your house, they're very hard to get rid of. So, preventing them from getting in is your best defense.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Inspect all places in your house that are warm, close to human contact and have plenty of hiding spaces. This includes mattresses, carpeting, pillows and sofa beds, as well as behind chairs and dressers.

2. Treat your furniture with insecticides to get rid of any possible bed bugs. Basic insecticide spray will get rid of any on the furniture, but insecticide dust will get them where they hide.

3. Cover your mattress in plastic. This will prevent any bugs from getting in or out.

4. Consider getting rid of any old furniture if you can. If there is the chance any bugs remain, this will help prevent them from multiplying in your home again.

5. Seal and repair any cracks on your home's exterior to prevent bugs from entering. Install or repair window screens to keep birds or rodents, who may have bugs on them, from getting in.

6. Clean your house regularly, reducing clutter and even vacuuming the mattresses. This may not completely prevent bed bugs, but it will reduce their hiding places.

7. Check any furniture you buy secondhand, especially mattresses. Also, inspect all luggage and clothing that comes into your home, especially if you have traveled outside North America.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can confirm that you have bed bugs, you are best off calling a professional exterminator to get rid of them.

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[bedbugcommunity]

on 10/22/2009 Mike, I'd say you should be okay, but if you still have bed bugs or if you'd like to help your friend out you can get laundry bags and mattress protectors from http://www.bedbug.com - Best of luck!

[mike29cinci]

on 12/7/2008 i was sleepiniends house and woke up with bed bugs on me my worst nightmare cam true i put my coat and sweater in the dryer for an hour got home left shoes and wallet outside puta ll my clothes in a trash bag while in a towel in a 20 degree garage and showered instantly please tell me if this should be good enough to not have them at my house cant sleep help