Preventing Bed Bugs in Multi-Unit Dwellings

To prevent bed bugs from spreading between apartment units, seal cracks and crevices in walls and floors and use protective covers on mattresses and box springs to eliminate potential hiding spots.

Many perks come from living in a multi-unit dwelling, especially for those who like socializing and taking up less room. But not all is ideal in these dwellings, especially when faced with unwanted guests, such as bed bugs.

Here are some ways to keep bed bugs out in an apartment complex:

Discover their entry points

Bed bugs are sneaky and can hitch a ride on luggage, furniture, and clothing when traveling, moving, staying with friends or family, or buying secondhand. Once they settle in, they're hard to evict. They hide in cracks, mattresses, and anywhere near where people sleep.

Inspections

Look for signs of bed bug infestation: tiny blood spots on sheets, itchy bites, and the bugs themselves. Check the bed, furniture, carpets, and wall sockets if anything seems amiss. Early detection and response could prevent a full-blown infestation.

Seal and secure

Bed bugs are master infiltrators. One can seal cracks and crevices in walls and floors to block the paths between units within the apartment complex. Also, use protective covers on mattresses and box springs to deny bed bugs a hiding place.

Cleanliness

While bed bugs aren't picky about cleanliness, and their presence doesn't mean a dirty house, reducing clutter gives them fewer places to hide. One should vacuum around beds and upholstered furniture. Wash and dry bed linens in the highest temperature setting to kill stowaways.

Be smart about secondhand

Secondhand furniture is usually a great find but can also harbor bed bugs. Inspect used items thoroughly before bringing them home. Look for live bugs, eggs, or shed skins. When in doubt, leave it out.

Communication

Don't hide a bed bug infestation. Even if it seems awkward or embarrassing, tell the property manager or landlord immediately. This way, tenants and management will know what's happening and can cooperate and act to control the outbreak or involve professionals.

Support your neighbors in stopping the bed bugs

Those living in multi-unit dwellings must work as a team to stop bed bugs. There's no point in hiding, being reluctant to share, or trying to tackle the problem alone. That could only make it worse. Keeping the pests at bay takes vigilance, good habits, and communication.

Of course, preventing an infestation is easier than getting rid of one. But if an infestation does happen, contact a professional service or encourage the property manager to do so.

Get professional help

Bed bugs can find a way in despite everyone's best efforts. In these cases, it's high time to involve professional pest control services. They have the means to eliminate bed bugs and tackle the problem at the core in a way DIY couldn't. They can also offer guidance on preventing future infestations.

Bed Bugs Arizona offers a free, in-home bed bug inspection and a one-year warranty on all bed bug services. No obligation. We specialize in apartment communities. Our fast, certified technicians provide the Pro-Treat Plus method of bed bug removal to Phoenix and surrounding cities in a 100-mile plus radius including Flagstaff, Globe, and Casa Grande. Veteran and senior discounts. Call now at (623) 343-0422.