Who’s at risk of getting bed bugs in Fredericksburg, VA?

Those who frequent high-risk areas like hotels, schools, dormitories, office buildings, and movie theaters are more likely to face bed bug infestations. With their resurgence in the 1990s, bed bugs have become a concern for everyone.

People who face the greatest risk of getting bed bugs include:

• College Students: Dorms are common places for bed bugs to spread, making students highly susceptible to infestations. Shared spaces and frequent visitors increase the risk.
• Recent Travelers: Hotels and motels are prime spots for bed bugs, making travelers more likely to bring them home unknowingly. Luggage and clothing are common ways they hitch a ride.
• Used Furniture Buyers: Secondhand furniture, especially mattresses or couches, can harbor bed bugs from previous owners. Inspecting items thoroughly before bringing them inside is essential.
• Anyone Who Has Visited an Infested Area: Whether it’s a hotel, office, or public transportation, exposure to an infested location increases the chances of bringing bed bugs home. Checking clothing and bags can help prevent an infestation. 

The Risk of Bed Bugs in Hotels

With the rise in international travel, bed bugs have found a growing presence in hotels. These pests thrive in hotels, where they never lack a food source. A few days of vacancy won’t stop them from spreading to adjacent rooms, and one infested room can soon lead to an entire hotel infestation.

To prevent bringing bed bugs home from a hotel, make sure to research and read reviews beforehand. Inspect the mattress and furniture for any signs of pests, and keep your suitcase off the floor, ideally in the bathtub or on a raised surface.

Bed Bug Problems in Universities

Student housing is an ideal environment for bed bug infestations. With students coming and going from all over the world, bed bugs can easily make their way into dorms at any time of year. Checking common spots like beds, couches, chairs, baseboards, and dressers for signs of pests is essential, especially since much of the furniture is second-hand.

Bed Bugs and Dorm Rooms

Dorm rooms, much like hotels, are prime targets for bed bugs. With so many people sharing space, these pests can easily spread throughout the building. College students already have a lot on their plate, so it’s crucial to report any early signs of bed bugs right away. Before heading home for breaks, be sure to clean your student’s suitcase thoroughly to prevent bringing bed bugs back.

How to Avoid Bed Bugs in College

Staying proactive about bed bugs is essential for college students. Identifying the signs early and reporting any potential infestations can prevent widespread problems. With bed bugs easily transferring between dorms, prompt action is necessary. By maintaining a clean room, covering your mattress, and being mindful while traveling, you can lower your risk of an infestation.

Can College Students Bring Bed Bugs Home?

Yes! Many home infestations start when college students come home for the holidays or summer. To avoid this, have your student take extra care when packing their suitcase, especially if it was used for previous travels. Once home, wash all clothing (even the clean ones) in hot water, steam-clean the suitcase, and store it on a raised surface.

Why Anyone Can Get Bed Bugs

Bed bugs will infest any space where they can feed, regardless of the environment. They can last up to a year without needing a blood meal. Always on the lookout for new opportunities, bed bugs will hitch a ride to new locations and create fresh infestations.

Regardless of whether you think you’re safe from bed bugs, it’s important to know the warning signs and take preventive measures. If you have travelers or college students staying with you, a professional bed bug exterminator is your best defense.