Continuing from the post on Tuesday…

You should pull back the linens and check the mattress for any signs of bed bugs.  You could find live bugs or smashed bugs either light brown to reddish brown in color.  Run your fingers along the seams of the bed on both the top and bottom sides.  Don’t forget to check around the mattress tag as this too is a good hiding place for bed bugs.  Keep an eye out for excrement.  It will look about the size of a poppy seed and be black.  You should also look for the skins of the bed bugs that have been shed as they mature.

Examine the headboard and all crevices associated with the bed.  Check the nightstand and dresser drawers as well.  Bed bugs love to hide in wood.  Don’t forget to check behind any picture frames that are in the room.  They provide an excellent hiding place.

If you encounter or suspect there is a bed bug infestation, notify the management immediately.  They will surely offer a new room to you.  Some hotels experience infestations in one room while others may have them throughout the entire hotel, so it would be wise to re-inspect the new room before you decide to stay there as well. 

If you do decide to stay in a hotel that has bed bugs, be sure to inspect your luggage carefully before you put your belongings back inside.  Be sure to inspect each item before placing them in your suitcase.  Once you arrive home, wash all your clothing in hot water and dry for at least 20 minutes.  Dry cleaning also kills bed bugs.

Taking precautions will help insure that you do not take these pests home with you.  My personal opinion…when in doubt…just get out!  If you need an exterminator to get rid of pesky bed bugs in New York or New Jersey, click here.