There has been quite some stir about the under-reported problem of bed-bugs in the city and the costs associated with it, as infestations are not covered by insurance. This is clearly a topic that no one wants to discuss: not landlords for fear of empty units, not co-op or condo boards for fear of falling prices, and not tenants/owners for fear of shame. Everyone has heard of at least one horror story in the city about those darned bugs that are so very difficult to eliminate. It’s no wonder that a NY bed bug disclosure bill is underway, requiring landlords to tell prospective renters about infestations in the last year.
As such, we thought it may be helpful to provide some tips on the best preventative measures you can take to avoid getting bitten:
- Catch it early: Inspect all warm hiding spots in your home that come in constant contact with humans. Think mattresses, pillows, sofas, and carpeting, making sure to check behind dressers and chairs.
- Pre-treat: If you’re particularly worried, treat your furniture with insecticides to get rid of any possible bed bugs. The spray version is easy but the dust version will get them where they hide.
- Avoid: Don’t pick up used furniture off the street and be very discerning in purchasing it second-hand.
- Wrap it: Protect your mattress with a plastic cover (a mattress encasement), preventing any bugs from making it their home.
- Repair: Seal any cracks between walls and to the exterior (those devils travel), as well as keeping out birds/rodents that may be carriers.
- Clean: Keep your home spick and span, reducing clutter and vacuuming in tight spots. Also, wash your bed linens weekly in 120+ degree water.
- Inspect: Inspect your luggage and clothing after trips away from home, particularly if you or your guests have traveled outside North America.
- Inspect again: If you travel, inspect your hotel room before you unwind, by lifting the mattress, and inspecting the undersides dressers, nightstand drawers, furniture, and pictures. Always keep your suitcases on racks and NOT on the floor, or near the door, as far from the bed and sofas as possible.
A little care can go a long way towards avoiding coming face to face with a bed bug of your very own.
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Talk about full service, you ladies cover it all. This made me wonder why we tell our kids when they are young “good night and don’t let the bed bugs bite”.