Bed bugs are the scourge of mass sleeping establishments, from hotels and motels to hostels and campgrounds.
Their travel ability is annoyingly high: Visitors can bring them in their luggage and clothing without the slightest awareness. They’re hard to find and hard to exterminate without professional help.
But they can be stopped. Here’s a helpful flowchart to aid in bed bug management in the event your hospitality business thinks there may be a bed bug infestation.
1. Have bugs been observed and/or bites been experienced during the day or night?
If yes, don’t panic! Inspect the sleeping area for signs of bed bugs. Pay close attention to mattress, bed frame, headboard, and bedside tables.
2. Are there live (crawling) bugs, cast skins, eggs, or dried blood spots present?
If no…
- DO NOT treat for bed bugs
- Consider other biting insect exposure, perhaps outdoors, or other cause of skin irritation
- Monitor residence for future signs of bed bugs
- Educate staff on how to reduce chances of introducing and spreading bed bugs
If yes…
3. Do bugs resemble bed bugs or has professional identified as bed bugs?
If no…
- DO NOT treat for bed bugs
- If still unsure of pest ID, collect samples & contact pest management professional
- If another type of insect infestation has been identified, treat accordingly using professional pest management, or if applying insecticides in the facility yourself, always follow label directions
- Educate staff on how to reduce chances of introducing and spreading bed bugs
If yes…
- Contact licensed pest management professional to implement integrated pest management plan [ask about bed bug experience]
- Reduce clutter, inspect & vacuum crevices around room and furniture, caulk crevices
- Encase mattress(es) to restrict access by bed bugs
Other Helpful Bed Bug Resources
- How Long Can Bed Bugs Live in a Plastic Bag?
- Do Bed Bugs Go Dormant in Winter?
- Bed Bugs vs. Ticks: The Differences Between Ticks & Bed Bugs
- 4 Early Signs of Bed Bugs on Mattresses
- Do Bed Bugs Hide in Metal Bed Frames?
- How to Find Bed Bugs During the Day
- Bed Bug Prevention Tips: How to Prevent Bed Bugs in Your Property
ESS Universal manufactures and supplies high-quality, cost-effective commercial grade beds, mattresses, and furniture to camps, hostels, shelters, dorms and more. View our entire line of furniture products including our popular waterproof foam mattress for institutional use, single metal bed frames, single over single bunk beds, single over double bunk beds, and triple bunk beds. Download our catalog for detailed information on our complete product line.
