Bed Bugs have been falsely connected to unhygienic or unsanitary environments since the dawn of time, but in fact, this is more myth than truth. Bed Bugs do not discriminate against where they choose to set up shop, happily finding homes inside the restaurants, tourist attractions, movie theaters, and 5-star hotels of your next vacation. After checking into your vacation suite, be sure to keep your luggage elevated on a counter or suitcase stand and not on the floor. Bed Bugs often use your purse, suitcase, backpack, and even YOU, as their means of transportation. Before traveling home, inspect your travel bags along the seams and corners for any unwanted souvenirs. Wash and dry your garments on the hottest settings once you’ve returned to kill any Bed Bugs that may have gone undetected.

Millions of Americans love to shop for antiques or go thrift shopping for that unexpected find. Though antiquing and thrifting is a booming business, there are risks buying used or aged furniture. Like your vacation luggage, Bed Bugs love to hide in upholstered furniture, disappearing in the seams or cushions. Beds, couches, or chairs are not the only attraction for these pests either. Bed Bugs are often found in old clothes, blankets, or pillows. If you spend your Sunday mornings perusing the local antique market or are in the market for a used couch, inspect your furniture meticulously before bringing it home. This way, you’ll make sure your next bargain doesn’t come with more than you bargained for.

Whether purchasing second-hand furniture or relaxing in a vacation suite, knowing whether newly purchased hand-me-downs, or hotel room are showing signs of a Bed Bug infestation can save us from bringing home an unwelcome guest. Only 1-7 millimeters large and incredibly flat, signs of their presence may be easier to spot than the parasite itself. Signs that your used furniture may be housing a Bed Bug infestation include rust-colored or red spots from either fecal matter or dried blood on upholstery, or a musty scent when smelled up close. Knowing these signs may stop you from purchasing that second-hand couch.

As careful as you may be, Bed Bug infestations can happen to anyone across the country. With a pest that notoriously multiplies at rates of 5 eggs per day per female, conquering an infestation may feel like an impossible task to tackle alone. Just one overlooked Bed Bug can be enough to restart an infestation and the frustration that comes along with it. That’s why its always best to get the help of a professional pest control expert with treatment options to best suit your unique situation. Protecting the greater Charlotte area, At Ease Pest Solutions is the locally owned and veteran operated pest control company giving customers peace of mind from Bed Bugs for years. With specific pesticides and treatments like the Whole Room Heat Treatment, At Ease Pest Solutions has the correct tools and solutions for a safe, effective, and affordable Bed Bug free home. Put your pests to rest just like I did with the professional help of At Ease Pest Solution’s satisfaction, guaranteed service plans.