bed bugs in mattressA bed bug mattress protector is the first line of defense, treating the bugs in their favorite haunt: your bed. With some mattress protectors killing and protecting against bed bugs for up to two years, they are a formidable weapon in the war on these persistent pests. In fact, there are many situations where this weapon may be used to effectively to address, or avoid, a bed bug infestation.

Tip 1: Protecting the Family Elsewhere

  • A bed bugs mattress protector should be considered for college students residing elsewhere. Consider putting together a dorm kit with a mattress protector as well as a pillow protector and a laundry bag to keep linens separate from a roommate’s bedding as well as from others in the dorm.
  • Senior housing is another place where a mattress protector is prudent for your aging loved ones. They may not be as aware of the bed bug problem so this would help them in case of an infestation threat, also giving you added peace of mind.
  • For any young ones in the family that may use a daycare center or are in kindergarten where naps are part of the curriculum, sleep mats are often used. Consider adding a bed bug liner to those under the sheet used to cover the mat.

Tip 2: Protecting Your Home

It’s important to remember that a bed bugs mattress protector should not be the only strategy employed. That’s because bed bugs are hiding out in other places that the protector cannot cover. They can also be in your curtains, baseboards, bed frame, floorboards and upholstered furniture. With that in mind, here are some other strategies to consider:

  • Have a bed bug dog inspection company identify all of the areas where the bed bugs are hiding.
  • Use a number of bedbug-specific products to treat your home, taking care to avoid harsh chemicals where children and animals are present.
  • Regularly inspect areas that have been treated to make sure the bed bugs have not returned.

Tip 3: Protecting Yourself While Traveling

Hotels and various types of lodging have been pinpointed as bed bug havens. Make sure you don’t bring them home with you by following these tips:

  • After your initial thorough inspection upon arrival, continue to inspect your hotel room for signs of bed bugs throughout your stay.
  • Ask if the hotel uses a mattress protector. If not, don’t stay there or ask that housekeeping puts a protector on that you bring with you.
  • Don’t bring your own pillows from home; instead, pack pillowcase protectors and put them on your hotel pillows.
  • Protect your suitcases by using a bed bug spray and keeping clothing wrapped in Ziploc® bags.

In Summary

A mattress protector can be used beyond just your home mattress. Consider these tips:

  • The mattress protectors can be used in daycares and schools, dorms, and senior housing as well as while traveling.
  • A mattress cover is only part of the strategy. Don’t assume it will take care of an entire bed bug infestation because bed bugs hide in many places.
  • Be vigilant with regular inspections of your home, dorm room, school and hotel room.
  • Employ other strategies like a bed bug dog inspection company and use a cross-section of bed bug products and strategies to avoid or stop an infestation and prevent it from coming back.

Learn More About Bed Bugs