Returning Home from the Holidays…Not Alone! Bed Bugs Follow Americans Home from Winter Vacations

January 04, 2024

For the 131 million Americans back home from their relaxing holiday vacations, a surprise visitor could await them as they unpack. Bed bugs have become a major concern for those traveling, who may find more than just clothing and shoes in their luggage upon their return.

Although they are not considered dangerous or disease-carrying, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bed bugs do bite and can cause significant allergic reactions and skin infections.

To make sure you start off 2024 bed bug-free, here are our 5 Top JP McHale Pest-Expert Tips to follow:

● Bedbugs are attracted to dirty clothes, so if you cannot do laundry before heading home, pack all your dirty clothes in a sealed plastic bag.

● When you arrive home do not unpack your suitcase in your bedroom, instead, do so in another room with a hard floor and no carpet so that you can spot any bed bugs.

● Inspect your suitcase with a flashlight to check for bed bugs and vacuum it before putting it away.

● Wash everything -- even clean clothes! It’s better to be safe and wash all the clothes you took on your vacation!

● Clean thoroughly! The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends steam cleaning with steam temperatures of at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit to thoroughly clean carpets, baseboards, bed frames, and other furniture.

Despite all your best efforts, bed bugs can still make their way into your home!

JP McHale Pest Management has proven and effective pest management strategies to detect and eliminate bedbugs using an environmentally sustainable treatment plan.

For more information about our Bed Bug Elimination service call (347) 309-5947, or email sales@nopests.com.