Bed bugs are an extremely common nuisance in the U.S. and throughout all of North America. Houses tend to provide the perfect environment for these insects to thrive, including climate control and a variety of cracks and crevices to hide in. Here are a few of the top tips for bed bug control.

How to Prevent a Bed Bug Infestation

1. Keep Your Outlets Covered

The small holes in electrical outlets provide an ideal hiding spot for bed bugs to avoid detection and removal. They can even travel from room to room inside the walls of your home by entering and exiting via outlets. To prevent this scenario, use child-proof outlet covers to keep these holes inaccessible when not in use.

2. Vacuum Frequently

Bed bugs don't only live in beds; they also frequently infest carpeting. Vacuum your floors frequently and thoroughly, along with the cracks and crevices of your bed, sofa, and other furniture. As soon as you've finished vacuuming, always empty your vacuum canister into the trash, and then take the trash bag outside of your home to prevent bugs from crawling back out.

3. Routinely Examine Bedding & Furniture

Bed bugs hide in small cracks and crevices like the folds of bedding and cracks between furniture cushions. Take the time to examine your bed and bedding, your pets' bedding, and all your other furniture on a regular basis. While you may not lay eyes on the actual bugs, you might find their droppings, which look like tiny dark dots.

4. Minimize Clutter

Piles of clutter, especially those lined up against walls, provide countless places for bed bugs to hide. Ridding your home of excess belongings and moving any remaining clutter to a storage unit, garage, or other outbuilding can help prevent your home from attracting bugs of all kinds.

5. Use Caution When Traveling

The main way bed bug infestations spread is through travel when people inadvertently bring home bugs in their clothing or luggage. It is recommended to store your clothing in vacuum-sealed bags and keep your luggage away from beds and walls when staying in hotels and other temporary lodging in the interest of bed bug control. When you return home, place all the clothing from your luggage in the dryer on the hottest setting for a minimum of 15 minutes.

If you've found signs of a bed bug infestation in your home, turn to Cox Termite & Pest Control Inc in Savannah, GA. These experts have offered high-quality bed bug control & pest management services for over 40 years, including preventative maintenance. Visit their website or call (912) 236-2503 to set up an  inspection.