Things That Bring Bed Bugs Into Your House
Bed bugs are pervasive and can infest almost any place where humans spend time, including retail stores, hotels, and private homes. With bed bugs becoming increasingly common, it’s essential to be aware of the items that can bring these pests into your home. Here’s how you can avoid unintentionally transporting bed bugs and prevent an infestation:
1. Suitcases
Bed bugs love to hitch a ride in luggage after a trip. According to Nancy Troyano, a board-certified entomologist, checking your suitcase upon arrival at home is essential. Inspect your luggage carefully, especially after traveling, and avoid placing it on upholstered furniture. For extra safety, run your suitcase and its contents through a dryer on high heat for 15 minutes to kill any bed bugs that may have snuck in.
2. Clothing
Bed bugs can also hide in clothing, especially when shopping for new outfits. Since it may be difficult to spot them, it’s important to inspect new clothing before hanging it in your closet. Troyano recommends running all new clothing through a high-heat dryer cycle for 15 minutes before washing them in the regular cycle. This will help eliminate any bed bugs or eggs that could be hiding in the fabric.
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