Bedbugs are a serious concern for travelers, especially in cities that have made Terminix’s list of the top U.S. locations in need of extermination services. Based on treatment data from 300 branches of the popular pest-control company, here are the cities that have reported the highest levels of bedbug infestations:
- Philadelphia
- New York
- Cleveland – Akron
- Los Angeles
- Dallas – Fort Worth
- Atlanta
- Houston
- Washington, D.C.
- San Francisco – Oakland – San Jose
- Indianapolis
If you find yourself in one of these cities, it’s crucial to take precautions to avoid bringing bedbugs back home with you. Recognizing the signs of bedbugs is key to preventing an infestation.
Before settling into a hotel or rental, be sure to inspect the following areas:
- Mattress seams, headboards, and nearby furniture for small, rust-colored stains, shed skins, or live bugs. Adult bedbugs are roughly the size of an apple seed, so thorough examination is necessary.
- Use a flashlight to check deep crevices, folds, and corners for any signs of these pests.
- Look for evidence around nightstands, chair edges, sofas, and drawer joints.
While traveling, consider these tips:
- Keep your suitcase zipped and store it in a large, sealed plastic bag when not in use.
- When unpacking at home, do so on a hard surface away from your bedroom to easily spot any hitchhiking bedbugs.
- Place your clothing in the dryer on high heat for at least 30 minutes before washing to kill any potential bugs or eggs. If certain items cannot be dried, steam cleaning may be effective.
If you do find bedbugs upon returning home, Terminix advises acting quickly to contain the infestation. Avoid moving infested items between rooms and refrain from using over-the-counter repellants, as many bedbug populations have developed resistance to these products. It’s best to consult professionals for inspection and treatment.
With these precautions, you can help protect your home from bedbugs and enjoy your travels without worry.
