"Sleep tight. Don't let the bedbugs bite." Before the recent surge in bedbug infestations that phrase was seen as a simple joke. Now, just hearing the word bedbug makes the average person begin to feel itchy. Hopefully, we get can get back to joking about bedbugs.
Before we got serious about bedbugs, previous generations were able to almost nearly wipeout bedbugs. During the 1950s, pesticides, such as the presently-banned DDT, were used to eradicate bedbugs. Years have passed since the last time bedbugs were a legitimate concern, but these resilient creatures have proven to be quite resilient.
Why are bedbugs such strong, persistent animals? For the most part, it's because of their ability to hide. A bedbug's small size allows it to easily hide in the smallest of crevices and cracks in headboards, mattress seams, box springs, and baseboards. One professional has even described seeing bed bugs squeeze between the zipper teeth of ineffective mattresses. This makes detection very difficult. Secondly, bed bugs do not need to eat very often. Scientists state a bedbug can survive 550 days without food.
People often come into contact with bedbugs while staying at hotels. Here are a few ways to avoid bedbugs when you travel:
1. Check for Complaints. Before you book a room make sure to use the internet to search for bedbug complaints. Great places to check for complaints are www.BedBugger.com and www.BedBugRegistry.com.
2. Inspect the Room. At the very least, you should check the mattress. Remove all the sheets and check all the creases in the mattress. Look for fecal matter, live bugs, dead bugs, and blood spots. Don't forget to check the mattress and headboard.
3. Keep your Luggage away from the Bed. The safest spot in the hotel room for your luggage is the bathroom. Also, make sure you don't unpack your clothes on the bed. Keep your luggage off the floor and use the stand most hotels provide.
4. Use Plastic Bags for Laundry. Place all your dirty laundry in a plastic bag to avoid contaminating your clean clothes.
5. Wash Everything. Once you return home, you should immediately wash your clothes. It is also best to dry the clothes in the hottest temperature possible.
If you, or a loved one, have been attacked by bed bugs while staying at a hotel, motel or resort, then please contact our office to discuss your legal rights. We do not charge for the initial consultation, and if we don't make a recovery on your behalf then you do not owe us attorney fees. Call us today.
