Bed bugs are small, parasitic insects that feed on blood and can be found in various places, including homes, hotels, schools, and public transportation. The main causes of bed bug infestations are traveling, buying used furniture, and attending schools or colleges.
Traveling, both domestically and internationally, is the most common cause of bed bug infestations. Places with high turnover rates, such as hotels, motels, and Airbnb's, are prime spots for picking up bed bugs. They can attach to clothing or luggage and be transported to new locations, where they can lay eggs and multiply quickly.
Buying used furniture, particularly mattresses, box springs, couches, and chairs, can also cause bed bug infestations. These items may unknowingly harbor hungry bed bugs, which can lay eggs and multiply quickly in their new host's area.
Schools and colleges are another means by which bed bugs make their rounds. Since these insects transfer easily through clothing and other cloth materials, children can unknowingly bring them home from school or college breaks.
To prevent bed bug infestations, it is essential to clean and declutter frequently, especially in the bedroom. Moving the bed away from walls or furniture, vacuuming molding, windows, and floors every day, and washing sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and bed skirts in hot water and putting them in a hot dryer for at least 30 minutes can help control an infestation.
If a bed bug infestation is suspected, it is crucial to contact a pest control professional immediately, as bed bugs can breed quickly. Pesticides may not be effective and can be dangerous if used improperly. If pesticides are used, they should be registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and labeled to control bed bugs.