Corporate Office:
20 Corporate Park Drive, Suite 150
Pembroke MA 02359
Cambridge, MA Office:
2534 Massachusetts Ave,
Cambridge, MA 02140
November 13, 2024
As you gear up for holiday travels this Thanksgiving, the last thing you want is to bring home unwanted guests – like bed bugs! These pesky critters can hitch a ride in your luggage, clothes, and even furniture, making your post-trip days a nightmare. At Secured Environments Pest and Wildlife Services, we want to help you travel smart and keep your holiday stress-free. Here are some simple steps to ensure bed bugs don’t crash your Thanksgiving getaway:
Before settling in, do a quick inspection of your hotel room. Check the mattress seams, box springs, and headboards for small dark spots (fecal matter) or shed skins, which are common signs of bed bugs. Look around the edges of carpets and behind furniture as well. If you spot anything suspicious, ask for a room change immediately!
Never place your luggage on the bed or floor in a hotel room. Use luggage racks or keep your bags in the bathroom, which is less likely to harbor bed bugs. By keeping your bags elevated and away from potential hiding spots, you reduce the chance of bed bugs sneaking into your belongings.
Consider investing in bed bug-proof luggage covers or sealed plastic bags for your clothes. These can add an extra layer of protection while traveling, making it harder for bed bugs to crawl into your bags unnoticed.
After your trip, immediately wash and dry your clothes in the hottest settings possible. Bed bugs can’t survive high temperatures, so washing and drying your clothes at 120°F or higher will help kill any hitchhikers you may have picked up along the way.
Many hotels now offer a “bed bug-free guarantee” and may take proactive steps to ensure their rooms are pest-free. Don’t hesitate to ask about their pest control policies or if they’ve had any recent issues with bed bugs. A little peace of mind goes a long way!
When you return home, inspect your luggage, clothes, and personal items before bringing them into your living spaces. It’s always a good idea to leave luggage in a garage or a separate area until you’ve fully checked everything.
Bed bugs can be sneaky, so it's important to stay vigilant, especially during busy travel seasons like Thanksgiving. Regularly check your sleeping areas and know the signs of an infestation.
At Secured Environments Pest and Wildlife Services, we know how important it is to protect your home from pests – especially after traveling. If you suspect bed bugs or need help with any other pest issues, don’t hesitate to contact Secured Environments Pest and Wildlife Services. We’re here to ensure your home stays secure, even after your holiday travels!