Bed Bugs In Dorms

The pest that has been invading homes and hotels has finally made its way into college dorms. Reports of bed bugs in dorms are increasing as these invaders infest campus residence halls throughout the country.

Signs of Bed Bugs in College Dorms

Bed bugs are dark red or brown wingless insects. One key sign of bedbugs is the finding of black, brown or brownish red smears or specks on the mattress, sheets and box spring, especially along the seams. The marks may also be found on curtains, corners, along the wall of the side of the bed and on headboards. Bed bugs can live in any small crevice.

Bed bugs do not spread diseases but they do bite. Another sign of bed bugs is waking up with itchy red bites, often in a linear pattern on the arms or legs.

What to do If you Suspect Bed Bugs in Your Dorm

If you suspect bed bugs in your dorm, contact your RA right away as a professional extermination is the only way to effectively get rid of these pests. Before the extermination however, there are a few steps you should take to ensure that you do not spread the bed bug problem beyond your room or residence hall:

• Leave clothing and furniture in the room until the extermination is complete.
• Vacuum and clean your entire room, especially crevices like the space between molding and carpet.
• Disassemble your bed and clean the frame and headboard with a mixture of rubbing alcohol and hot water.
• Use bed bug-proof covers for your mattresses, box spring and pillows.

Prevent Bed Bugs in College Dorms

Here are some tips on how you can avoid bringing bed bugs into your dorm:

• Make sure any furniture (especially if has been used) is thoroughly examined before you bring it into your dorm. Inspect the crevices, behind molding and in any cracks.
• When traveling, put your luggage on a luggage rack, never on a floor. And inspect your luggage, clothes and belongings before leaving.
• When traveling, seal shoes, linens and clothing in separate plastic bags in order to prevent any bed bugs from escaping. Wash your laundry as soon as you get home in hot water.