J Carnaghie wrote:
> A really good article aimed toward travelers is on MSNBC:
> http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/11877871/
>
> For those who would prefer:
> Concerned travelers may want to check their bed for telltale signs of
> the bugs, a more common practice years ago. Before jumping into bed,
> here are a few spot check tips:
>
> * Peel back the bedsheets and check the mattress, running your
> fingers along the upper and lower seams. Make sure to check the mattress
> tag, bed bugs often hide there.
> * Experts recommend removing and examining the headboard if
> possible. Check for tiny black spots (excrement) that are smaller than
> poppy seeds. You may also see translucent light brown skins or, in the
> case of an infestation— live bugs.
> * Check the bedside table. Look for signs of bed bugs in the drawers
> and along the wall on the side of the bed that is less likely to be
> disturbed by cleaning staff and guests.
> * You may want to elevate suitcases and keep them off the floor,
> like on a luggage stand.
> * If you see powder in the drawers or on the headboard, it is likely
> that the room has already been treated for bed bugs by an exterminator.
> * If bed bugs are detected, travelers should request for another
> room. Be sure to inform hotel management.
> * Just moving to a different room may not be the total answer. You
> should repeat the thorough inspection of any new or different room you
> are offered.
> * When you pack to leave, inspect your luggage carefully first, and
> inspect every item as you pack to help detect any bugs or their signs.
> Laundering most cloth items with typical hot water and detergent
> followed by drying on low heat for at least 20 minutes (or standard dry
> cleaning) should kill all bed bugs in or on such items. Sealing
> freshly-laundered items inside a plastic bag should help keep any more
> bed bugs from getting in those items later to hide (and be carried back
> with you).
>
> Bottom Line: The little suckers are going to be a problem until a long
> lasting, acceptable pesticide is developed.
>
> Cheers,
> John in LALALand
Since the issue is a simple week trip (usually) I wonder how an ordinary
can of household bug spray would do. For most cabins one can would be
fine. We don't need to clean the things out just knock down the density
so that they are not a problem in the short term.
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