5 Tips to Avoid Bed Bugs This Winter

As the temperatures fall and winter in Atlanta sets in, irritating bugs, such as mosquitoes, are finally heading towards hibernation. After several months of mosquitoes, we deserve a break. 

The bad news is that not all bugs hibernate in the same way. Bed bugs hate cold weather, and they retreat to your bedroom.

Not only are bed bugs active during the winter months, but this is also a time when they love to spread. The Christmas season is coming up in a few weeks, so millions of people across the country will be traveling to visit their families. Unfortunately, this means we are far more susceptible to infestation of bed bugs, as they spread more frequently the more we travel. 

Monitor Pest Control understands that these critters are not everyone’s favorite sleeping buddy, and it’s not easy to spot them at first. Most of them are incredibly small and mostly transparent. They prefer to feed off of blood, so if you’re not careful, you’re what’s for dinner. 

That’s why our pest control company has compiled a list of five helpful tips to keep these unwanted bunkmates from joining you during these cold evenings.

1. Reduce Clutter – When you were growing up and your mother ordered you to clean your room, she probably wasn’t just worried about it looking like a mess. She was most likely thinking of bed bugs, too. Bed bugs love to hide in clutter around headboards, nightstands, and under the bed. Keep these areas free of loose items and please be sure to vacuum on a regular basis.
2. Wash Your Sheets Regularly – You should be washing your bed linens once a week already, but this is even more important during the winter. Bed bugs can’t handle the high temperatures of a dryer for very long, so it’s important to wash your sheets and tumble dry them on high heat.
3. Double Check Your Luggage – If you’re traveling this holiday season, be sure to look through your bags a couple of extra times when you’re unpacking, especially if your luggage is made of fabric. Bed bugs are small and not always easy to spot in dark places, but they leave behind droppings of bloodstains, which are easier to spot. Check for those and be sure to immediately wash your dirty clothes once you’re home.
4. Move Your Bed – It’s a good idea to move your bed away from the wall. Bed bugs hang around walls and baseboards, so if your bed is away from the wall, it gives them one less hiding place.
5. Let the Pros Handle It – If you’ve got a bed bug infestation, the best possible solution is to call a pest control company. After all, this is what we’re here for.

If you’re interested in getting rid of those unwanted bunkmates, give us a call and we’ll perform a thorough evaluation and provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan. 

Stay bug-free this winter!