03May
5 Tips to Prevent Bed Bug Infestation
Bed bug infestation is a major challenge in the United States today. From mansions to motels, everybody is vulnerable when it comes to these pests. “They are master hitchhikers, so no one is immune. Sanitation has nothing to do with prevention: from public transit to five-star resorts, bed bugs have been and can be found everywhere humans are,” says Chelle Hartzer, an entomologist at Orkin, a pest control company.
The fact that bed bugs rapidly reproduce further makes it a challenge for them to be wiped out. An adult female bed bug lays two to five eggs per day, roughly around 500 in her lifetime. So once they catch up, bed bugs are a challenge to get rid of. According to a study by Orkins, hotels spend an average of $6,383 per bed bug incident. Not to mention the fines they have to shell out in case of litigations.
The only way to handle these pests is to ensure they stay as far from you and your hotel as possible. So, here are five tips to help you achieve this feat:
01.
Declutter, declutter, declutter
Yes, we can’t stress on it enough. Bed bugs love clutter as it gives them places to hide and reproduce. Keeping the rooms clean and tidy increases their chances of exposure. Regular vacuuming and dusting are also advisable as it is the time when you can look out for rusty or reddish stains or dark spots. These are indicative of the presence of bed bugs.
02.
Bed bugs hitchhike…a lot
The most common way a bed bug travels is by getting into the luggage and bags. Hotels have guests coming from all over the continent and there is no saying who is bringing in these unwanted, tiny guests along. Providing a luggage rack in each hotel room is one way you can make it difficult for a bed bug to get near the bed. However, this doesn’t mean they will wander off. No, Sir. You will still need to get the room thoroughly cleaned and checked after every guest checks out.
03.
Get bed bug mattress/box spring protectors
Bed bugs need human blood to survive and they hate things that move. So when is the right time for them to go hunting (read sucking)? You guessed it right. When you are asleep! So their favorite resting room is the bedroom and their favorite hang-out place is the bed. But not to worry, we have a very attractive solution for this too – mattress and box spring protectors! Made with premium quality polyester, these encasements are zipped and cover the mattress/box spring on all sides. They are waterproof and give your bed long-lasting protection from bed bug infestation.
04.
Give bed bugs the hot treatment
Like any other insect, bed bugs hate heat too because there is a good chance it could kill them. So every time a guest checks out, you must get all the bedsheets and bed linen washed immediately. Put them in a hot drier at 122 degrees and run it for at least 20 minutes. According to the University of Minnesota, this process kills bed bugs and their eggs.
05.
Bed bugs are excellent hiders
Bed bugs are as slim as your credit card. This helps them squeeze into the tiniest crevices they can find. Headboards, dresser tables, chairs, couches, behind wallpaper and wall hangings, on mattresses, bed frames, box springs – they can be just anywhere. Train your housekeeping staff in checking out every nook and corner for bed bugs. Always keep an eye out for them. The sooner you treat a bed bug infestation, the easier they will be to get rid of.
AGH Hospitality
Being hotel and motel suppliers over years, and through the long-standing relations with customers, we know your needs best. From housekeeping equipment, furniture, electronics to cleaning supplies, we supply everything to provide your guests with a memorable experience at an affordable price. Go through our product portfolio and feel free to contact us, in case of any question.
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