You’ve dealt with a bed bug problem, but how do you prevent those pesky bed bugs from making a comeback? By taking these simple precautions, you can ensure a bed bug-free environment and sleep soundly knowing you’ve kept them at bay.
Inspect and Treat Infested Areas
To effectively prevent bed bug re-infestation, you should thoroughly inspect and treat any areas that were infested before. Start by carefully examining all the cracks and crevices in your furniture, including the seams of mattresses, sofas, and chairs. Look for any signs of bed bugs, such as dark spots or shed skin.
Don’t forget to check the headboard, bed frame, and nightstands as well. If you find any infested areas, prompt action is necessary.
Seal Cracks and Crevices
Inspecting and treating previously infested areas is only the first step; you need to seal cracks and crevices to effectively prevent bed bug re-infestation. Bed bugs are notorious for hiding in tiny cracks and crevices, making it necessary to seal these entry points.
Start by thoroughly inspecting your home for any gaps or openings in walls, floors, and furniture. Use a good quality caulk or sealant to seal these cracks and crevices, ensuring that there are no gaps left behind. Pay special attention to areas near the bed, such as baseboards, electrical outlets, and mattress seams.
Launder and Dry Bedding Regularly
Regularly launder and dry your bedding to effectively prevent bed bugs from returning. Bed bugs can easily hide in your sheets, blankets, and pillowcases, so it’s important to wash them frequently.
Wash the bedding in hot water, as the heat will kill any existing bed bugs and their eggs. Use a high heat setting when drying the bedding as well.
Vacuum and Steam Clean Frequently
Vacuum your mattress, furniture, and carpets regularly to ensure no bed bugs or eggs are present.
These two cleaning methods are essential in preventing bed bug re-infestation.
Vacuuming should be done thoroughly and regularly, focusing on areas where bed bugs are most likely to hide, such as mattresses, box springs, cracks, and crevices.
After vacuuming, you can also steam clean these areas to further ensure no bed bugs are present. Steam cleaning is done at high temperatures effectively killing any bed bugs or their eggs, making it an effective and chemical-free method.
Take Caution When Travelling or Buying Used Furniture
Bed bugs are notorious hitchhikers and can easily infest your home through luggage or second-hand furniture.
When travelling, inspect your hotel room thoroughly before unpacking. Check the mattress, headboard, and furniture for any signs of bed bugs, such as small brown or reddish spots or shed skins. Keep your luggage elevated and away from the bed or furniture.
When buying used furniture, carefully inspect every nook and cranny for signs of bed bug infestation. Pay close attention to seams, cracks, and crevices. Consider using a bed bug mattress encasement to prevent any hidden bed bugs from escaping.
Taking these precautions will help ensure that you don’t bring bed bugs into your home. If you find your home under siege by bed bugs, it is best to seek assistance from experts in the field of bed bug cleaning. Contact Kleen Slate Services today.
