Last time we talked about what to do if you already have bed bugs (see our June 28 post: What to do if bed bugs are biting you.) One of the most effective ways of controlling bed bugs in your bed is to encase the mattress and box springs in specially designed bed-bug proof covers, called encasements.

• If you already have bed bugs, encasements will trap the nasty insects inside an impermeable barrier. They won’t be able to sneak out or bite their way out and will eventually starve to death. (Many victims feel this is apt revenge after having served as the midnight smorgasbord for the little buggers and their friends.)
• If you don’t have bed bugs, encasements will prevent them from moving into your mattress or box springs. You’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your bed is as protected as bed linen science can make it.

A mattress/box spring set costs a pretty penny. There’s no reason to throw them out if you get bed bugs. In fact, getting rid of your bed — as much as you might want to — can spread the problem. And it’s most likely that the nasty buggers will move right into the new bed and start the noxious cycle all over again (see our June 28 post). Encasements also increase the efficiency of your pest professional’s control and eradication program. They trap live bed bugs and eggs inside where they can’t hurt you and make spotting and removing new bugs easy. Since the bugs can’t get into your bed to hide, they’re easy to see and remove from the cover. If you have or want to prevent a bed bug problem, your smartest move is to protect yourself and your bed, now and for the future, by encasing your mattress and box springs in encasements.

You should know that not all encasements are created equal. You can’t just run down to Wal-Mart and buy a couple of thin plastic mattress covers. You must purchase encasements specially designed to be bed bug impermeable. Next time we’ll talk about how to select encasements that work.

For more information on bed bugs and encasements, visit the Stern Environmental Group website. We are the bed bug experts and will get rid of your bed bugs — guaranteed! Call us today if you suspect you have a bed bug problem. You’ll sleep well tonight when you get “Stern” with your pests.