can bed bugs travel from apartment to apartment

Bed Bugs FAQs

What are bed bugs, where are bed bugs found, do bed bugs spread disease, what health risks do bed bugs pose, what are the signs and symptoms of a bed bug infestation.

• How are bed bug bites diagnosed?

How did I get bed bugs?

Who is at risk for getting bed bugs, how are bed bugs treated and prevented.

Bed bugs ( Cimex lectularius ) are small, flat, parasitic insects that feed solely on the blood of people and animals while they sleep. Bed bugs are reddish-brown in color, wingless, range from 1mm to 7mm (roughly the size of Lincoln’s head on a penny), and can live several months without a blood meal.

Bed bugs are found across the globe from North and South America, to Africa, Asia and Europe. Although the presence of bed bugs has traditionally been seen as a problem in developing countries, it has recently been spreading rapidly in parts of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and other parts of Europe. Bed bugs have been found in five-star hotels and resorts and their presence is not determined by the cleanliness of the living conditions where they are found.

Bed bug infestations usually occur around or near the areas where people sleep. These areas include apartments, shelters, rooming houses, hotels, cruise ships, buses, trains, and dorm rooms. They hide during the day in places such as seams of mattresses, box springs, bed frames, headboards, dresser tables, inside cracks or crevices, behind wallpaper, or any other clutter or objects around a bed. Bed bugs have been shown to be able to travel over 100 feet in a night but tend to live within 8 feet of where people sleep.

Bed bugs are not known to spread disease. Bed bugs can be an annoyance because their presence may cause itching and loss of sleep. Sometimes the itching can lead to excessive scratching that can sometimes increase the chance of a secondary skin infection.

A bed bug bite affects each person differently. Bite responses can range from an absence of any physical signs of the bite, to a small bite mark, to a serious allergic reaction. Bed bugs are not considered to be dangerous; however, an allergic reaction to several bites may need medical attention.

One of the easiest ways to identify a bed bug infestation is by the tell-tale bite marks on the face, neck, arms, hands, or any other body parts while sleeping. However, these bite marks may take as long as 14 days to develop in some people so it is important to look for other clues when determining if bed bugs have infested an area. These signs include:

• the bed bugs’ exoskeletons after molting,
• bed bugs in the fold of mattresses and sheets,
• rusty–colored blood spots due to their blood-filled fecal material that they excrete on the mattress or nearby furniture, and
• a sweet musty odor.

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How do I know if I’ve been bitten by a bed bug?

It is hard to tell if you’ve been bitten by a bed bug unless you find bed bugs or signs of infestation. When bed bugs bite, they inject an anesthetic and an anticoagulant that prevents a person from realizing they are being bitten. Most people do not realize they have been bitten until bite marks appear anywhere from one to several days after the initial bite. The bite marks are similar to that of a mosquito or a flea — a slightly swollen and red area that may itch and be irritating. The bite marks may be random or appear in a straight line. Other symptoms of bed bug bites include insomnia, anxiety, and skin problems that arise from profuse scratching of the bites.

Because bed bug bites affect everyone differently, some people may have no reaction and will not develop bite marks or any other visible signs of being bitten. Other people may be allergic to the bed bugs and can react adversely to the bites. These allergic symptoms can include enlarged bite marks, painful swellings at the bite site, and, on rare occasions, anaphylaxis.

Bed bugs are experts at hiding. Their slim flat bodies allow them to fit into the smallest of spaces and stay there for long periods of time, even without a blood meal. Bed bugs are usually transported from place to place as people travel. The bed bugs travel in the seams and folds of luggage, overnight bags, folded clothes, bedding, furniture, and anywhere else where they can hide. Most people do not realize they are transporting stow-away bed bugs as they travel from location to location, infecting areas as they travel.

Everyone is at risk for getting bed bugs when visiting an infected area. However, anyone who travels frequently and shares living and sleeping quarters where other people have previously slept has a higher risk of being bitten and or spreading a bed bug infestation.

Bed bug bites usually do not pose a serious medical threat. The best way to treat a bite is to avoid scratching the area and apply antiseptic creams or lotions and take an antihistamine. Bed bug infestations are commonly treated by insecticide spraying. If you suspect that you have an infestation, contact your landlord or professional pest control company that is experienced with treating bed bugs. The best way to prevent bed bugs is regular inspection for the signs of an infestation.

This information is not meant to be used for self-diagnosis or as a substitute for consultation with a health care provider. If you have any questions about the parasites described above or think that you may have a parasitic infection, consult a health care provider.

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What to Do if You Find Bed Bugs in Your Apartment

By Lilly Milman

Apr 24, 2023

Updated on Oct 17, 2023

As headlines scream of a "bed bug infestation" in Paris , you may be wondering what you can do to protect yourself against these pests. In our guide below, we cover everything from identifying a bed bug problem to preventing one.

Discovering you have bed bugs in your apartment can be upsetting, scary, and embarrassing — but if you suspect you have bed bugs, finding and identifying them is the first step to getting rid of them. One common myth spread is that if you have bed bugs in your house, that must mean it’s dirty or unsanitary, but bed bugs are just as likely to infest a clean house. In fact, one in five Americans have either had a bed bug problem or know someone who has , so it’s incredibly common and should not be associated with any shame.

If you have bed bugs, you’ll need professional help to get rid of them, but we’re here to walk you through the process of ridding your apartment of these tiny pests.

In this guide, we explain:

• How to identify a bed bug infestation
• What to do if you find bed bugs
• What your tenant rights are if you have bed bugs
• How to prevent future infestations
• Common myths about bed bugs

How to Identify a Bed Bug Infestation

Bed Bug Bites

Bed bugs pose no serious health threat to humans, which is one reason why you shouldn’t panic if you discover an infestation. However, this means that they can be incredibly difficult to find and identify. For many people, one of the first signs they look for when trying to figure out if they have a bed bug infestation in on their own body, as bed bug bites typically leave clusters of small red spots. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not recommend relying on the occurrence of bug bites, though, because many people have little to no physical reaction from bed bug bites. Plus, the bites look similar to those of mosquitos or spiders or can mimic the appearance of other reactions like eczema or hives. That being said, if you are consistently waking up with red bug bites on your skin, especially ones that turn into itchy welts, that could be one sign of bed bugs.

Evidence in Your Home

The EPA instead recommends looking for physical signs of bed bugs in your home as a more accurate way of identifying an infestation. If you suspect that you have bed bugs in your apartment, check your mattress and bedding.

If your bed is infested, it will likely show the following signs:

• Reddish-brown stains on your mattress or bedding, which could be a sign of crushed bed bugs
• Small, dark spots on your mattress or bedding, which may be bed bug droppings
• Tiny, white eggshells
• Live bed bugs, which look like an apple seed as adults but are smaller and more translucent when young

Catching an infestation early on is key to getting it eradicated quickly. To see how far a bed bug infestation has spread, start checking around your room. Bed bugs are known for their tendency to hide in hard-to-reach places. Also check any cracks or crevices on your bed frame or headboard, as well as in the folds of curtains, in or between couch cushions, or under loose wallpaper and wall hangings when seeking out evidence of bed bugs.

What to Do if You Find Bed Bugs

It’s important to recognize that you won’t be able to solve a bed bug problem on your own, but what you can do is create a plan of action to control the infestation as soon as possible.

We recommend taking the following steps when starting bed bug treatment in your apartment:

• Tell your landlord or property manager. While each state has different laws on tenants’ and landlords’ responsibilities when it comes to removing bed bugs (which we will cover later in our guide), the first step to controlling your pest problem is always telling your landlord, preferably in writing, to begin establishing a timeline. They also may have dealt with bed bugs before or already have a method for controlling infestations, so getting them involved is a necessary step.
• Call a professional. There are many steps you can take in your home to prevent the spread of bed bugs and try to avoid bringing them back in the future, but bed bugs are notoriously difficult to get rid of. To completely remove an infestation, it often requires multiple sessions from an exterminator. Ask your landlord if they have a pest control service that they work with already for bed bugs. If not, find a licensed pest management professional who will help you determine the extent of the infestation and draft an appropriate action plan. They may need you to double bag any personal items, and empty your closets, drawers, and other spaces to aid in their exterminating process.
• Inform your neighbors. It may not be pleasant to tell others about a bed bug infestation, but if you have one, chances are that neighboring units in your apartment building are also having an issue. Check with your landlord to see if they already have a process for informing all tenants about bed bugs. If not, let them know so that they can check their own apartments and potentially prevent any further spread.
• Get a bed bug proof mattress cover. You may be tempted to buy a new mattress, but this actually isn’t necessary to stop an infestation. A plastic mattress cover with special zippers designed to stop bed bugs from passing through will do the trick when it comes to controlling the spread. The plastic cover will kill all of the bugs that are on your mattress, and prevent any more from getting in. There are similar covers for box springs you can buy. Keep receipts for anything you buy in case you are able to get a reimbursement from your landlord.
• Clean your bedding, as well as any clothing that may have been infested. Take any linens that have been exposed, then wash and dry them on high heat settings to kill any eggs. To ensure that bed bugs don’t get back into your bedding or clothing, store them in sealed plastic bags or bins.
• Vacuum thoroughly. Bed bugs can be hidden just about anywhere. Vacuuming all of the floors in your apartment, including tough-to-reach corners, under any furniture, and any of your couches and chairs is an important step in getting rid of bed bugs.
• Declutter. While bed bugs don’t discriminate, and a clean apartment can’t prevent them, clutter gives them more places to hide in. By decluttering your apartment, you can remove some of their options for hiding places. Plus, this will make it easier for your exterminator to completely rid your space of bed bugs.

If panic-mode is setting in, try to relax. If you’ve already taken all of the above steps, it can be tempting to want to do more to curb the infestation sooner, but be wary of taking actions that may actually result in spreading the infections further.

Try to avoid doing the following:

• Moving your furniture to another apartment. If you know that bed bugs are in a certain room in your apartment, you may be thinking that perhaps you can save some of your furniture in other rooms from a similar fate. That’s not the case, unfortunately. Removing furniture from your place and temporarily storing it elsewhere can actually just facilitate the spread of bed bugs, since it will be hard to tell if the piece that you’re moving is completely bug-free.
• Sleeping on a piece of furniture that’s not your bed. Sleeping in a bed you know was infested with bed bugs may gross you out, but similar to the above point, sleeping elsewhere can spread the bugs to more rooms of your house. If you’ve cleaned your sheets already and covered your mattress with a bed bug proof plastic encasement, then your bed should be your safest bet. If you choose to sleep in a hotel, just make sure that you are not spreading any bugs to the hotel.
• Rely on DIY solutions. Adult bed bugs can live up to a year without eating in certain climates , and many specialists agree that they are incredibly difficult to get rid of. They spread easily and are able to hide in cracks and crevices. While doing some DIY tactics, like what we listed above, can be helpful, you must work with a professional exterminator to ensure that an infestation is fully stopped.

It may be hard to get rid of a bed bug infestation, but it’s not impossible — especially when working with the right specialist.

What Your Tenant Rights Are if You Have Bed Bugs

As we said earlier in the guide, your rights as a tenant when it comes to bed bugs depend on the state where you’re living. According to the EPA, 21 states have some level of law that applies to bed bugs . In some states, your landlord is required to house you elsewhere while they get rid of a bed bug infestation. In many, they will be required to cover the costs of ridding the infestation. However, in others, the tenant will be required to cover the cost if theirs is the only unit with a bed bug presence or the infestation is deemed to be the tenant’s responsibility.

If you live in a state where there are laws requiring your landlord to take care of bed bugs, then make sure you keep all receipts for anything bed bug–related that you purchase and keep a written timeline. You should have documentation that shows when you told your landlord about the bed bugs, any actions you took, any actions they took, and any actions taken by an exterminator.

For the EPA’s full guide to each state’s bed bug laws and regulations, click here.

How to Prevent Future Infestations

To prevent bed bugs from getting back into your apartment, it’s important to know how they usually get in in the first place.

Possible ways that bed bugs can be introduced include:

• On luggage, overnight bags, or folded clothes that you took to a hotel or hostel
• From a nearby or neighboring infested unit in your apartment complex
• Through used furniture picked up from the street or a secondhand store

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) , those who travel frequently and sleep in living quarters that have been used by other people (like a hotel or hostel) are at higher risk of spreading a bed bug infestation.

If you want to be extra cautious about bed bug control in the future, you may want to consider some of the following guidance from the EPA :

• Be wary of secondhand furniture unless you are certain it is free of bed bugs
• Vacuum frequently, especially in hard-to-reach corners
• Transport items that you washed in a shared laundry facility in sealed plastic bags, and folding your clothing at home
• Wash clothing items and bedding in hot water
• Install door sweeps on your doors and seal any cracks or crevices that you can in your apartment, like where your baseboards meet the wall
• Purchase a portable heating chamber to treat any bed bug–infested items
• Place bed bug interceptor traps under legs of furniture to catch bed bugs

Common Myths About Bed Bugs

There are a few widely spread, false ideas that are prevalent about bed bugs. Being informed about what’s true and what’s just a myth can help you stay vigilant when it comes to preventing or exterminating an infestation in your home.

We are here to bust the following myths, which according to sources like Scientific American and the EPA , are all untrue :

• You can’t see a bed bug with your naked eye.
• Bed bugs only live in dirty places.
• Bed bugs can transmit diseases.
• Keeping the light on will deter bed bugs from coming out of their hiding places and biting you.
• Bed bugs can fly.
• Bed bugs only bite at night.
• Bed bugs can spread by latching on to your body.
• Bed bugs only live in mattresses.

The Bottom Line

A bed bug infestation can be a scary and frustrating problem to handle, but it isn’t the end of the world. If you act quickly and vigilantly, you can rid your apartment of bed bugs and likely prevent future infestations. Just make sure that you work alongside your landlord as well as a pest control professional to ensure that you are completely ridding an infestation.

For more informative articles on all things renting, check out our Renter Guide .

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How Do Bed Bugs Travel Between Apartments? Prevention Tips

If you live in multifamily housing such as a townhouse or apartment building, there’s some bad news: you are more susceptible to a bed bug infestation.

Bed bugs can travel between apartments quickly and easily.

The good news is that there are ways you can prevent these shared infestations if you know how bed bugs get from one unit to another.

How do bed bugs travel between apartments? Bed bugs can travel between apartments through any available gaps, such as those in electrical outlets, light switch covers, baseboards, wall cracks, and plumbing pathways. They can also enter via any human visitors who are unintentionally transporting them.

Preventing bed bug access to your apartment is critical, especially when there are known infestations in the vicinity.

Knowing how these pests travel from home to home is one of your best defenses.

If you’re already seeing signs of these unwanted invaders in your apartment, check out our comprehensive guide, “ How To Get Rid of Bed Bugs ,” for easy, yet effective, solutions.

Table of Contents

What Are Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are parasitic insects, which means they have six legs, feature a hard exoskeleton, and need a host.

For bed bugs, the host is usually a human whose blood they can feed off of. There is a common type of bed bug, the type found in homes, and a second, tropical type.

Ranging from brown to red in color, an adult bed bug is about the size of an apple seed and is shaped like a raindrop or balloon.

Bed bugs are commonly mistaken for other bugs ( read this to correctly identify bed bugs and differentiate them from impostors), especially fleas.

Because they need a host to survive, bed bugs like to stay in a hiding spot close to humans. They remain out of sight until it is safe to come out to feed, generally at night.

Typically, bed bugs eat every five to 10 days. However, bed bugs are able to go for an entire year without feeding if necessary.

This adds to the difficulty in eradicating bed bug infestations, since it takes them a long time to die naturally.

Fact: Bed bug bites often go unnoticed until the next day as bed bugs inject an anesthetic into the wound to numb the area. Flea bites are typically felt immediately. Learn more about the differences in bites in this article .

Bed bugs are small enough to fit anywhere a credit card will fit.

They tend to hide underneath sheets, in the seams of mattresses, in crevices in headboards, and within cracks and gaps in walls.

Though they cannot fly, bed bugs move incredibly efficiently; they can cover up to 100 feet an hour!

They are also difficult to contain because they reproduce quickly. One pregnant female can produce 300 adults and 1,000 new eggs in just three months. 

There is a common misconception that bed bugs are a sign of dirty or unhygienic environments.

This is untrue, however, as the two most accurate indicators for bed bugs are population density and amount of travel. 

How Bed Bugs Travel

Outlets and light switches.

Electrical outlets and light switches are placed into holes cut into the drywall or plaster of your home. These holes are havens for bed bugs.

These pests then travel along electrical wires all around the building. 

If your outlet or light switch cover plates are not flush with the wall, bed bugs will be able to sneak through the gap.

Use electrical tape or painters tape to seal the gap and force bed bugs to turn around.

Similarly to the way they use outlets and light switches, bed bugs can traverse an apartment building via the plumbing. They can walk on the outside of pipes in any direction.

Use caulk or some sort of silicone material to cover the gaps between the pipes and walls.

Gaps and Crevices

Older buildings that have settled or have damage are easy for bed bugs to get around.

Any entrance a bed bug has into a wall makes it possible for them to get to other apartments, whether via electrical wires, plumbing, or walking directly through the gaps. 

Visitors and Carriers

The most common way bed bugs enter any home is by being transported by a person or item. 

Be aware that if a neighbor or friend has bed bugs and enters your apartment, it is easy for the bed bugs to infest your place, too.

Bed bugs are able to hide very well and will often stow away in the following locations:

They can then be transported to any other location via these transporters. Remember, the other indicator of a bed bug infestation (in addition to a dense population) is amount of travel.

If you or your visitor travels frequently and sleeps in different beds, you are more likely to get bed bugs. 

If your neighbor or visitor has bed bugs, do not permit them to come into your home until they have eradicated the pests completely.

Secondhand furniture or clothes are other ways bed bugs can be transported. If you are buying used stuff, carefully inspect them for signs of bed bugs.

How Can I Tell if I Have Bed Bugs?

If you think you might have bed bugs, look for the following signs:

• Live or dead bodies: reddish-brown, apple-seed sized, shaped like a raindrop or balloon.
• Tiny spots of blood on sheets, mattresses, and pillows – these spots are where bed bugs have been crushed.
• Dots of bed bugs excrement that look like marks from a permanent marker.
• A musty, somewhat sweet scent (some compare it to the smell of rotten raspberries).
• Eggs and shed skins laid in hidden locations.

Check for these signs in the following locations:

• Around the seams on mattresses and box springs.
• Underneath bed sheets.
• Beneath light switch and electrical outlet covers.
• Along baseboards or gaps in walls.

What Should I Do if I Have Bed Bugs?

When you have determined that you have a bed bug problem, do not panic!

Contact your building manager or landlord as soon as possible. They should have a plan in place for these situations.

Then, begin to take care of your apartment to get rid of the bugs. The best way to get rid of bed bugs is to kill them with extreme heat.

They cannot survive temperatures of 120 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes, and they die immediately at 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

This process must be done carefully, however, as you are in danger of spreading the infestation. 

• Put whatever you can in sealable bags before moving them out of the room.
• Machine wash anything that can be removed and can handle a washing machine.
• Dispose of any clutter around the infestation: magazines, books, tissues, food trash, etc.
• Vacuum the room thoroughly.
• Consider applying contact pesticides, such as those included in this Harris 5 Minute Bed Bug Killer Value Bundle , to your mattress or any other areas that have been infested.

By far, the best thing you can do is to use  a steamer such as the Costway Multipurpose Steam Cleaner , a device that turns water into hot steam, on anything you cannot move out of the room.

Check Price on Amazon

This particular model features a 1 1/2-liter tank, which provides 40 minutes of continuous 226°F steam.

The intense heat will efficiently kill any bed bugs, and best of all, steamers require no potentially dangerous chemicals.

You can see which other steamers made it to our list of Best Steamers for Bed Bugs   for more buying options.

What Should I Do if My Neighbors Have Bed Bugs?

Because bed bugs are so capable of travelling between apartment units, the first thing you should do if you learn your neighbor has bed bugs is to contact your building manager or landlord.

In most states, they are required by law to hire professional services to exterminate bed bugs from the building.

In the meantime, move your bed and all other furniture at least 6 inches away from any wall.

Bed bugs can climb up walls, so you want to make it as difficult as possible for them to find you.

Seal up any gaps. Put tape around electrical covers and use caulk or silicone on any gaps.

Consider putting a door sweep ( this one is self-adhesive – no tools needed) on your exterior doors to brush away any bugs trying to enter your apartment while the door is open.

If you do not have permission to make these changes to a rented apartment, consider using a pesticide, such as Cimexa Insecticide Dust , in any crevices of concern and around the perimeter of your unit.

Apply according to the instructions on the container for maximum effectiveness.

You can also purchase a mattress encasement such as the Hospitology Products Sleep Defense System .

Mattress encasements protect you from bed bugs getting to your mattress and making their home there. It is basically an airtight bag that is machine washable and zips up securely.

Bed bugs are pesky pests that can travel quickly and efficiently throughout apartment complexes.

They can enter your apartment via any gap, such as outlet and light switch covers, baseboard gaps, and plumbing entrances. They can also enter with visitors or furniture.

Be vigilant and let your apartment manager or landlord know about any bed bug problem.

If all else fails, contact a professional exterminator who can diagnose and treat the problem efficiently.

Having bed bugs can be a serious and irritating problem.

Rest assured that you’re using the correct methods of elimination by visiting our main bed bug page to view all our articles about these pesky pests.

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Do You Have Bed Bugs in Your Apartment?

A bed bug infestation is no laughing matter. In many states, it’s standard for landlords to add a lease clause holding tenants responsible for bed bugs that come into the apartment during their rental period. As a renter, you need to know how to protect yourself from pest-related liability . That’s why you should learn to spot these five signs of bed bugs, and what to do about a suspected bed bug problem in your “new” apartment.

You might have bed bugs if…

You’re waking up with itchy, red bumps on your skin..

Bed bugs feed on the blood of humans and animals, and they come out to feed at nighttime. As you snooze, they feast – often leaving you with itchy welts on any areas of skin that were exposed. You may write off the bumps as mosquito bites at first until you notice other signs of bed bugs. Some people may not exhibit any symptoms from bed bug bites, so a lack of welts does not necessarily mean a lack of bed bugs!

(One positive thing to note: In general, bed bugs have not been found to carry diseases. So, there’s not much they can give you besides the heebie-jeebies!)

You see red stains, dark spots, or brown streaks on your sheets.

Markings on your bedding can be a significant indicator that bed bugs have moved into your apartment. Small red bloodstains are often left from their bites, while dark-colored spots are their droppings. Light brown streaks created by their urine are sometimes visible on light-colored sheets. If you’ve woken up with any suspicious-looking bumps, the first thing you should do is take a close look at your sheets.

You’ve spotted a bed bug.

An obvious sign that you have bed bugs in your apartment is, well, seeing a bed bug! However, many renters don’t know what they’re looking at and may write off a bed bug as a harmless, lone intruder . But be advised, bed bugs have impressive reproductive capabilities—so spotting a single pest may be a sign of an impending infestation.

But, how can you tell if the bug in your bed is a bed bug or not? Keep in mind that bed bugs are a reddish-brown color, and they can range in size from the size of a grain of rice to the size of a pea. Their most distinguishing feature is the horizontal stripes that go down their bodies.

You notice a musty odor on your bedding.

The pheromones released by bed bugs have a distinct odor. So, when you’ve got an invasion of these pests in your space, you won’t be able to miss it. The smell is comparable to a damp, mildewy towel or a stale bathroom. The unpleasant scent may be noticeable when you enter a room, or you might only sense it when you get in your bed for the night. If your space is otherwise clean, but you can’t seem to get rid of that middle school locker room smell, you may have bed bugs in your apartment.

You’ve found their hiding spot.

Bed bugs don’t create any nest or web, but they do tend to gather in a communal hiding spot. If you suspect you have bed bugs, inspect the nooks and crannies around your bed, from spaces in the headboard and bed frame to the box spring. Their hiding spots are typically covered in stains, skin castings, and even potentially eggs. You may their odor gets stronger around the place where they gather, as well.

Bed bugs can pose a huge problem for apartment dwellers living in close quarters, and you may be wondering how the pesky things spread. Can bed bugs travel through apartment walls? Not exactly, but they can easily crawl underneath walls and doors to move from room to room and apartment to apartment. They can also “hitchhike,” traveling on clothing, furniture, bags, and so on.

Reduce your risk of a bed bug infestation by putting a protective cover on your mattress, vacuuming regularly, and sealing cracks around your doors and baseboards. Be wary of buying secondhand furniture such as couches and used beds — since they may contain hard-to-spot pests. Instead, when you need temporary furniture for the duration of your lease, consider renting bedroom and living room staples from a reliable furniture rental company . And in communal laundry rooms or laundromats, don’t let your clothing touch anyone else’s, and hold off on folding until you’re home.

My apartment has bed bugs, what are my rights?

If you suspect or have discovered bed bugs in your apartment, you must let your landlord know immediately – ideally ASAP via phone, as well as in writing. Your landlord should then hire a professional exterminator to inspect and treat the apartment. During the inspection, the exterminator can typically determine when the infestation occurred – most importantly, if it occurred before or after you moved in. If the landlord does not take steps to address the problem, you may have the right to withhold rent or break your lease , depending on your state’s law.

Currently, many leases include a “bed bug clause,” so it’s essential to read yours carefully. This clause often states that the unit is bed bug-free at the time of move-in and that the renter will be held liable for bed bugs found in the unit during or after their tenancy. Bed bug clauses also spell out renter’s obligations concerning when and how to report signs of bed bug infestations. These lease addendums typically make tenants responsible for infestations discovered post-move-in. Protect yourself by looking out for any signs of bed bugs and documenting them when you fill out your move-in inspection checklist.

Tell Your Old Apartment to Bug Off!

Does a bed bug infestation have you thinking about moving out before your lease ends? We don’t blame you. Start your search for a pest-free pad with ApartmentSearch .

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Bugs Explorer

Uncovering the Secrets of How Bed Bugs Travel Between Apartments

Bernard Lee

January 25, 2023

As a homeowner, I’m always looking for ways to keep my home safe from bed bugs. But one question that often comes up is “how do bed bugs travel between apartments?” After all, it’s one thing to keep your own home safe from an infestation, but what about the people living in the same building? In this guide, I’ll take a closer look at the different ways bed bugs can travel between apartments and what you can do to protect your home from an infestation.

What are Bed Bugs?

• Bed bugs are small, oval-shaped, parasitic insects.
• They feed on the blood of humans and other warm-blooded animals.
• Bed bugs typically hide in crevices and cracks in furniture, mattress seams, bed frames, baseboards, and wall outlets.
• They can survive for months without food and reproduce rapidly.
• Bed bugs are visible to the naked eye and are reddish-brown in color.
• They are typically 1/4 to 3/8 inch in length.

Bed bugs have a unique ability to hitchhike on people and objects, which makes them difficult to contain and prevent in apartment buildings. Here are five common ways they travel between apartments:

Clinging to Clothes and Bags

Through Wall and Ceiling Crevices

Through Electrical Outlets and Plumbing

Through Furniture and Bedding

On Public Transportation

I take regular steps to prevent bed bugs from traveling between apartments. Firstly, I sanitize my bedding and clothing regularly. This is essential to destroying any bugs that may be living in my linens. I use hot water and the highest setting on my dryer to ensure all bugs and eggs are killed. Additionally, I vacuum my bed and surrounding area to remove any potential bugs or eggs.

I also inspect my belongings before bringing them into my home. I check for signs of bed bugs, such as dark spots or eggs. If I find any, I immediately discard the item. I also inspect any second-hand items, such as furniture, before bringing them into my home.

Finally, I practice good hygiene. I vacuum my carpets frequently and mop my floors regularly. I also keep my apartment clutter-free. This helps to prevent bed bugs from taking up residence in my home.

2. Vacuum Thoroughly and Regularly

3. Seal Cracks and Crevices in Walls and Floors

• Fill cracks and crevices in walls, floors and ceilings with silicone caulk or other sealants.
• Check for cracks and crevices around windows, door frames, baseboards and other entry points in the home.
• Inspect behind wall mounted items such as pictures, clocks, and electrical outlets.
• Check for cracks and crevices in furniture, bed frames, and other items.
• Apply door sweeps to all exterior doors.

By taking these steps to seal off any cracks and crevices in the home, bed bugs will have fewer entry points and will be less likely to travel between apartments.

4. Check for Bed Bugs when Moving Into a New Apartment

It is important to inspect a new apartment for bed bugs before you move in. Check around the seams of mattresses and box springs, along baseboards, and behind electrical outlets for signs of bed bugs. Look for black spots, which is the excrement of the bugs, and shed shells which are the skins that were shed as the bugs grew. You may also want to look for tiny eggs around the bedding and furniture.

If you spot any of these signs, you should contact an exterminator to come and treat the apartment. It is also important to thoroughly clean the apartment and wash any bedding and clothing that may have been exposed to bed bugs.

Effects of Bed Bugs in Apartments

The presence of bed bugs can also cause tenants to be reluctant to stay in their units and may lead to high turnover rates. This can be a significant financial burden for landlords, as they may have to repair and replace items in vacated apartments. Furthermore, bed bugs can be a major source of embarrassment and can put a strain on landlord-tenant relationships.

Finally, an infestation of bed bugs can also have a negative effect on the property’s value. Prospective buyers may be put off by the prospect of dealing with an ongoing problem and may look elsewhere. This can make it difficult for landlords to sell their properties at a fair price.

In summary, bed bugs can have a serious impact on apartments. If left unchecked, they can cause financial losses, damage relationships, and even affect the market value of the property. Therefore, it is essential to take quick and decisive action to prevent and eradicate infestations whenever they occur.

1. Health Risks

Bed bugs can cause physical and psychological damage to people. They feed on human blood, which can lead to skin irritation, allergic reactions, and infection. They can also transmit other diseases, such as Chagas disease, through their bites. Additionally, their presence in an apartment can lead to anxiety and insomnia.

2. Financial Costs

Bed bugs can be expensive to eradicate. Treatment can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the infestation. The cost of pest control services, as well as the cost of replacing furniture and other items that have been infested, can quickly add up. In addition, some landlords may require tenants to pay for bed bug removal, so it is important to make sure you understand your lease agreement before signing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly can bed bugs spread between apartments.

Bed bugs can spread rapidly between apartments in multi unit buildings, such as apartment complexes, due to their ability to crawl through cracks and crevices in walls and floors. Bed bugs can move swiftly and easily between units, infesting other apartments in a matter of days or even hours. As they can survive for months without feeding, this is a major concern for apartment complexes and other multi unit buildings. In order to prevent the spread of bed bugs, it is important to immediately address any infestations and take preventative measures, such as regular inspections and the use of effective pest control methods.

How Likely is it for Bed Bugs to Infest an Apartment Building?

Bed bugs have the potential to infest an apartment building, depending on a few key factors. Bed bugs can easily spread from one apartment to another through shared walls, plumbing, and electrical outlets. They can also travel through clothes and furniture that is shared between tenants. Additionally, bed bugs can hitch a ride on items such as suitcases and bags, bringing them into apartment buildings from outside sources. Therefore, if one tenant has bed bugs, it is possible for those bugs to spread to other apartments.

What are the most common ways for bed bugs to travel between apartments?

Bed bugs commonly travel between apartments through cracks and crevices, along electrical wiring, and through shared items such as furniture, clothing, suitcases, and other personal items. They can attach themselves to items used in common areas such as vacuum cleaners, and can travel through ventilation systems and shared hallways. Bed bugs can also be carried from one apartment to another on people and animals.

Is there any way to prevent bed bugs from spreading in an apartment building?

Regular inspections and preventive treatments are the best way to prevent the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings. Residents should be informed about the signs of bed bugs and encouraged to report any suspected infestations. Pest control professionals should be consulted to properly identify and treat the infestations. It is also important to use bed bug-proof covers on mattresses and box springs to reduce the spread of bed bugs. Regular vacuuming and laundering of bedding, linens, and other items can also help reduce the spread of bed bugs.

How can I tell if my apartment is infested with bed bugs?

Bed bugs are small, flat, reddish-brown insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. Signs of a bed bug infestation include bites, dark spots of excrement on bedding and mattresses, bug shells, eggs, and a sweet musty smell. Bed bug infestations can also be identified by looking for live bed bugs or their eggs in mattress seams, bed frames, furniture, and other cracks and crevices. If you suspect you have an infestation, contact a pest control professional.

Bed bugs are a serious issue that can spread quickly and cause a lot of damage. By understanding how they travel between apartments and taking steps to prevent them from entering your home, you can protect yourself from an infestation. Reduce clutter, inspect for bed bugs regularly, and use bed bug-proof furniture if you are at risk of getting bed bugs. If you do find evidence of bed bugs, contact a professional pest control company immediately. Taking these steps can help you stay bed bug free.

• EPA: Preventing and Getting Rid of Bed Bugs
• CDC: Bed Bugs

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Bed Bugs in Your Apartment – What Should You Do

• Bed Bugs , Blog

The old adage of “Sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite” may hit too close to home if you think you have a bed bug infestation. Bed bugs are tiny bloodsucking pests that can lay up to 500 eggs in their lifetime. An infestation could infiltrate your entire home and cause health issues such as allergic reactions, anxiety, and insomnia for you and your family members. If you suspect you have bed bugs in your apartment, take immediate remedial steps. Read this guide to learn more.

Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation

People commonly believe that only messy living conditions are breeding grounds for bed bugs. That is not the case. Bed bugs can live anywhere, and they can travel too. These pests get comfortable in your home with their new source of food—you! There are several signs that may indicate you are living in an apartment with bed bugs.

• Bug bites – Bed bugs feed on you while you’re asleep. Their bites often appear in clusters or in lines on your body.
• Itchy skin – Bed bugs stimulate a histamine response, causing itchy skin that may result in allergic reactions such as rashes, hives, or blisters.
• Black stains – Small black marks on your sheets or mattress (look at the seams!) may be bed bug waste.
• Dead bugs – If you find dead tiny brown, oval, wingless insects, you can be certain there are live bugs present, too.
• Shed skin – Bed bugs have a moulting process. When they feed consistently, they shed their exoskeleton to have room to grow into adulthood.
• Eggs – Bed bug eggs can be seen, but you must know what to look for. They are tiny white or yellow casings about 1 mm long that can be found along the seams of your mattress.

Bed Bugs and Health Video

Can Bed Bugs Travel in an Apartment Building?

Yes! On foot, they may not get very far, but they have other forms of transportation. Not only can bed bugs travel in used furniture, thrifted clothing, used mattresses and luggage, but they can also travel inside an apartment building through small spaces such as electrical outlets, apartment walls, or even the smallest cracks. If other units around your apartment or condo are infested with bed bugs, chances are you have them too.

Are Bed Bugs the Landlord’s or Tenant’s Responsibility?

The landlord is responsible for bed bug remediation. If you notice any signs of bed bugs in your apartment, the first step is to contact your landlord to alert them of the situation. Trying to attempt a DIY solution may seem tempting, but it can result in a bigger infestation in your apartment.

The bed bug guide from the Government of Quebec and by-laws from the City of Montreal state that it is your landlord’s duty to contact a qualified bed bug exterminator to remedy the situation. This falls under the landlord’s responsibility because of the municipal ordinances per Quebec article 1910 of the Civil Code, which state a landlord must provide a habitable living environment. An apartment with bed bugs is definitely not habitable housing!

When an appointment is scheduled for bed bug treatment, the responsibilities of both parties are as follows.

Tenant Responsibility

• Clean up – Clear your space from clutter in preparation of getting rid of bed bugs . If your landlord is using Thermapro as their preferred bed bug exterminator, we will provide you with preparation instructions for our effective chemical-free heat-based bed bug removal process .
• Give access – Your landlord must give you 24-hours or more to prepare your apartment. Once your unit is ready, you must provide access to your home so the exterminators can start on their job.
• Contact Health Department – Your final step should only occur if your landlord refuses to help you with your apartment’s bed bug infestation. You must contact a health inspector to act as a witness to the health code violation.

Landlord Responsibility

• Reach out – Contact your tenant to provide them with sufficient time to clean up their home. This means providing them a 24-hour window or more, and instructions on the process.
• Provide access – Once your tenant has cleared their unit, make sure you are there to provide access for the extermination company. To get the infestation under control, we recommend that you provide access to other adjacent dwelling units and common areas in the building to determine the scope of the bed bug infestation.
• Communicate with your tenant – You should inform your tenant(s) about the intervention happening in their apartment and keep in touch with them throughout the extermination process.
• Formal notice – If your tenant refuses to give you access or resists remediation of the infestation, you must submit a formal notice, which may state that they are required to accept bed bug treatment if they want to keep their tenancy.

Are Bed Bugs the Landlord’s or Tenant’s Responsibility Video

Who should pay for the treatment.

If you have an apartment with bed bugs, your landlord is required to pay for the extermination by professionals. A landlord refusing to provide and pay for pest control will be in breach of the warranty of habitability.

Final Thoughts on Bed Bug Extermination in Apartments

Bed bugs can spread quickly and become a huge issue afflicting all areas of your apartment and other units as well. Remember, if you find signs of bed bugs in your apartment, don’t assume that they will eventually die off on their own – they don’t! DIY attempts are futile against these hardy pests. Because your landlord is required to deliver and maintain a dwelling in a fit and habitable condition, he or she must help you get rid of bed bugs by hiring a qualified bed bug exterminator .

Thermapro offers bed bug extermination services in Montreal and surrounding areas using thermal remediation, an effective chemical-free treatment. Because we are bed bug specialists, we will perform a thorough inspection of the apartment building to identify the areas to be treated and propose a plan to permanently remediate your bed bug problem. Request a free estimate today or use our online form to get in touch.

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• Apartment Hacks

What To Do If My Roommate Has Bed Bugs

• Posted by by Team Roomi
• February 26, 2020

Sharing your home with creepy-crawlies probably hasn’t made the top of your wish list. Pesky bed bugs continue to ignite stressful situations for New York City’s housing department, despite the fact that the council has put measures in place for preservation and development.

If you’re noticing unwanted guests popping up between your sheets, in your books, your clothes and just about everywhere else, what can you do? The sad fact is that even if your roommate has bed bugs, it becomes a problem for the entire housing apartment, because these pests travel fast – and almost always overstay their welcome…kind of like your roommate’s significant other who never leaves !

Are you sure the culprits really are bed bugs?

There are a few ways to identify bed bugs. And knowing what you’re working with is the first step to eradicating the problem. Some common signs that you’re dealing with bed bugs are:

• Your roommate (and possibly yourself) is noticing itchy bites on their body. Bed bugs survive on the blood of humans or animals and, while their bites aren’t dangerous, they can be irritating. You may also notice small spots of blood on your bed sheets.
• There are red or rusty-colored spots on the mattresses. Bed bugs can sit dormant for months without needing a feed, and some people don’t have a visible reaction to bites. That doesn’t mean these insects aren’t sharing your bed. Small stains or dots on your sheets or mattress could indicate bugs that have been squashed.
• Small dark spots on sheets (about the size of a standard bullet point) could actually be excrement from bed bugs.
• You’ve spotted live bed bugs in the wild; they’re usually translucent or dark brown in color, the size of a grain of rice, and oval-shaped with prominent legs.

File a complaint with the landlord

The New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) has listed bedbugs as a Class B violation . In short, that means that everyone has the right to a bedbug-free environment. 

A Class B violation indicates that bed bugs are considered hazardous. So it is the landlord’s legal duty to eradicate these little pests. If you have conclusive proof that your roommate is suffering from an infestation, it’s time to report the problem. 

By law, landlords have to provide new residential tenants with a one-year bedbug infestation history for units and entire buildings. If they fail to provide this, you can file an official tenant complaint. Otherwise, once you report your bedbug problem, they have 30 days to deal with the issue. 

What if the landlord doesn’t do anything about it?

If the landlord refuses to cooperate , consider contacting a tenant lawyer to understand the options available to you.

We don’t recommend staging a protest in the form of refusing to pay rent! Deal with these things properly, and the law will always be on your side.

Can bed bugs travel within the apartment?

So, your roommate or flatmate has somehow introduced bugs into their bedroom – and now it’s become your problem, too. Bed bugs are so tiny that they can travel in minute cracks in walls, easily spreading between rooms in accommodating environments.

Bugging news: Bed bugs can infest non-bed items too!

They also latch onto things like clothes, backpacks and other belongings. So it’s likely that if your roommate has bed bugs, you need to check your own space, too. Ignoring the problem can just worsen it! And you might even suffer sleepless nights that spin from the anxiety of being bitten.

So here’s what you need to do

Whether or not you have insect bites, take the following steps to bust any bugs from your room:

Check your bedding and clothing for signs of bed bugs.

A clear sign that you have bedbugs is if you have red bloody dots on your bedding and clothing. Once you’ve thoroughly checked for signs, create a record of your findings. (You can share this with a pest control professional, when the time comes.)

Do your laundry

Suspecting bed bugs on your clothes? Simply wash and dry them on a hot setting, or store them in a sealed plastic bag.

Seal all entryways for the little buggers

Check all cracks and crevices with a flashlight. If you do find any bugs, scoop them out with a knife, crush them and throw them outside.

Seal crevices with caulk to prevent more insects from entering your space.

Call the pros for help

Hire a pest control company if your landlord refuses to help. If this occurs, you’re within your rights to file a complaint with the Department of Housing Preservation and Development

Check out this bed bug guide for further information.

Sharing your space with unwanted critters can be stressful – affecting not only your skin, but your day-to-day life. The good news is that the responsibility falls on your landlord and the problem can be fixed! Report the issue as soon as you notice the signs to re-claim your bedroom.

D’you know what else Roomi does outside of helping its readers fight bed bugs? With our ever-increasing lists of rooms and roommates across the world, we help you find your perfect match!

Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite! Bed Bug Addendum: Tenant’s Rights & Responsibilities

4 DIY Pest Control Measures For Your Home

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Household and Structural

A practical guide to bed bug prevention and control for property managers and tenants in multi-family housing units*.

Gary W. Bennett, Extension Specialist and Grzesiek Buczkowski, Assistant Research Professor

If you want to view as pdf, click here

The common bed bug is one of the most common pests found in human dwellings all over the world, especially in multi-family housing units. Many people, especially property managers and tenants in apartment buildings (complexes), shelters, dormitories, and other housing facilities, do not know how to properly get rid of bed bugs. Perhaps more importantly, they do not know how to keep bed bugs from gaining entry into public facilities. This publication provides some basic information about the bed bug, how to prevent it from infesting a housing unit, and how to eliminate bed bug infestations.

Stop Bed Bugs Before They Get In

Multiple-family housing is at high risk for bed bug infestations. People and their personal belongings move into these facilities almost every day, which makes the chances quite high that bed bugs will enter. It is important for management to work with individuals who are moving in or coming for a visit to prevent them from introducing bed bugs. Existing tenants can also take steps to keep bed bugs from establishing in the building, which will reduce the cost of any control program.

A property manager should interview incoming tenants and ask if they have been exposed to bed bugs recently, if anyone in the family has been bitten by bed bugs, and if they need help with a known or suspected bed bug problem. Immediate help is critical to avoid spreading bed bugs in the facility. Assist potential tenants with medical attention for bites, help them launder clothes, and isolate their furniture and other belongings until the bugs can be killed. Keep in mind that an interview isn’t always foolproof: tenants may not know they have bed bugs or that they have been bitten by them.

If a potential tenant refuses to follow recommended management procedures for bed bugs, (such as inspecting furniture and other belongings, laundering clothes, and other items, and getting medical attention for bites), a social worker may need to incorporate these activities into the case plan. Be sure to keep good records on all of these activities, and follow up on these findings and actions that have been taken. Raise awareness about bed bugs in the facility by offering educational programs and materials, such as fliers about the various topics discussed below. Train facility staff to identify bed bugs and to perform the ongoing prevention and control actions outlined in this publication.

Identification and Behavior

Bed bugs feed on human blood and usually bite when people are sleeping. In most people, the bites cause red welts and itching that can last several days. Some people have no reaction to bed bug bites and are not even aware of an infestation.

Unlike mosquitoes, bed bugs do not transmit diseases, although prolonged exposure can cause allergic reactions or asthma, especially in children. Bed bugs must feed several times on humans to complete their life cycle and lay eggs. Since they depend solely on blood for food, and can develop large infestations, bed bug bites often lead to emotional anguish and sleeplessness.

Bed bugs are flat, oval-shaped, wingless insects. They are about ¼-inch long and are reddish-brown in color as adults. They are similar in size, shape, and color to an apple seed, but are flat unless they have had a recent blood meal. Immature bed bugs vary in size from a pinhead to an apple seed (depending on the number of blood meals and molts they have had), and are yellow to light tan. Bed bug eggs are white and about the size of a pinhead.

Bed bugs are efficient hitchhikers and depend on humans to transport them in luggage, clothing, beds, furniture, and other personal items. Bed bugs are small and agile, hide undetected in human belongings, and are easily transported into previously uninfested dwellings. Outbreaks can often be traced to travel, especially in countries or cities where bed bugs are common. Within a community, bed bugs are spread when infested personal possessions and furniture are moved into a new apartment, home, or housing facility. Where occupant turnover is constant, or where used beds, couches, or other furniture are being moved from one apartment to another, bed bugs are likely to become a problem. Once established, bed bugs often move from room to room by crawling and using cracks and openings in walls and ceilings.

Bed bug bite. (Photo credit: Tom Myers)

Blood-filled adult bed bug, with light colored nymphs, and pearl-white egg cases. (Photo credit: Tom Myers)

Detecting A Problem

Bed bug bites may be the first sign of an infestation. Bites usually appear as small welts (similar to mosquito bites) that itch and sometimes swell. Bed bug bites do not cause immediate itching or pain, so a person’s sleep is not disturbed. There are other signs of bed bug infestations: they leave blood stains on sheets and mattresses, and they defecate after feeding, which leaves small dark stains on bedding sheets and mattresses.

Bed bugs are large enough to see, and are usually found hiding in the seams and tufts of mattresses and crevices of box springs, bed frames, and headboards. In more serious infestations, they will be found in upholstered chairs and sofas, again hiding along seams and tufts, under skirts, and in crevices. Unchecked, bed bugs may spread to dressers, curtains, drapes, clutter on the floor and inside closets, and almost any other area that provides a hiding area. In infestations, one can find multiple signs in hiding areas: bed bugs in various growing stages (from egg to adult) as well as shed skins, fecal spots, and bloodstains.

Responsibilities of Property Managers

To prevent bed bugs in their properties, managers should:

• Encourage tenants and guests to report bed bugs.
• Keep a log book of bed bug sightings.
• Respond quickly to complaints with an inspection.
• Develop an aggressive bed bug IPM program.
• Use educational programs to raise awareness of bed bugs.
• Institute an interview program to deny bed bugs access to the building.
• Implement an awareness/prevention program.
• Refer tenants and guests to the proper sources of help: medical, mental health, financial, or social services.

Preventing Bed Bug Infestations

Education is the most valuable asset for keeping bed bugs out of apartments and other living units. Tenants and property managers need to be aware of the threat of bed bugs; and:

• Understand where they come from
• Know how they travel
• Know what they look like and where to find them
• Understand how to inspect for them
• Inspect mattresses, box springs, and head board for bed bugs and fecal or blood spots
• Prevent used furniture or clothing from entering the building
• Launder bed clothes, regular clothing, and any other items that can be laundered in hot, soapy water, and place them in a hot dryer for 30 minutes
• Clean up and reduce clutter (clothes, boxes, papers, general household items, etc.) to eliminate hiding spots for bed bugs
• Vacuum mattresses frequently or permanently encase them in bed bug-proof plastic encasements
• Keep furniture, especially beds, away from walls
• Tuck in sheets and blankets to avoid contact with the floor or walls.

Responsibilities of Tenants

To prevent bed bug problems, tenants should:

• Cooperate with management to control bed bugs.
• Report bed bugs and signs of bed bugs.
• Follow guidelines for cleaning and preparing for treatments.
• Encourage other residents to cooperate in preventing and controlling bed bugs.

How to Inspect For Bed Bugs

Tenants, and especially property managers, need to know if there is a bed bug problem on the property. They also should know how to inspect for bed bugs. Because inspections can be complex, it is usually best to contact a professional pest manager. However, there are some basic inspection tips to keep in mind.

Use a bright flashlight to look for bed bugs - blood stains, and fecal spots on mattress seams and tufts, sheets, and other bedding; cracks and crevices in head boards and the frame of the bed; and the box springs (and slats underneath). If possible, turn over and disassemble these parts of the bed to examine all potential bed bug hiding places.

You can use traps (such as Climb-Up Interceptors®) to inspect for bed bugs by placing traps beneath the legs of the bed and other furniture. Bed bugs get caught in the traps as they travel between furniture and the floor.

Use a bright flashlight to inspect for bed bugs along the seams of mattresses and upholstered furniture, as well as in cracks, crevices and other hiding areas. (Photo credit: Tom Myers)

How to Control a Bed Bug Infestation

Bed bugs are difficult to find and control because of their small size, secretive behavior, and lack of effective control tools. Thus, it is a good idea to hire an experienced professional pest management firm that uses an integrated pest management (IPM) program. An IPM approach is the most effective way to treat infestations in the unit and surrounding units.

Tenants and property managers must work with the pest management professional (PMP) by cleaning, laundering, vacuuming, and removing clutter. There also has to be good communication and cooperation in using steam treatments, mattress encasements, and inorganic powders (such as diatomaceous earth) for the IPM program to work best.

PMPs are trained to apply treatments that involve heat, vacuuming, and insecticides. A hot steam machine and a vacuum cleaner, can be used to kill or remove large numbers of bed bugs in heavily infested areas. Bedding and other infested materials (shoes, toys, curtains, backpacks, etc.) should be laundered in hot, soapy water and hot air dried in a clothes dryer at the time of the treatment and on a regular basis afterwards. You can place nonwashable items in a hot dryer for 30-45 minutes, or in a freezer for a few days to kill all bed bugs present.

Infested items that cannot be washed, cold treated, or heat treated should be sealed in plastic and discarded. Clutter in infested areas should be reduced, laundered and heat dried, or sealed in plastic bags and discarded.

Other nonchemical treatments are often necessary to eliminate infestations. Mattress and box spring encasements (PMPs know which ones work best) are designed to permanently seal bed bugs inside the mattress or box spring, killing the bed bugs that may have avoided other control measures. Encasements also eliminate hiding places (keep bed bugs from entering the mattress), and make future inspections and treatments much easier.

Protective encasements are available for box springs and mattresses. (Photo credit: Tom Myers)

Steam equipment can be used to kill bed bugs. Vacuum machines can also be used to physically remove bed bugs. (Photo credit: Tom Myers)

It is also helpful to caulk and seal as many of the cracks and crevices where bed bugs hide as possible. Bed bug traps can also help reduce the infestation. Bed bugs moving to or from the bed or other furniture will be trapped in the interceptor and die. The traps can also be used to monitor the bed bug populations — so they can verify whether bed bugs have been eliminated from a room, apartment, or building. Check the traps every 7-10 days, vacuum or clean them out, and then add a thin layer of talcum powder (to kill the bugs) to the traps until bed bugs are no longer being found.

Part of the IPM approach will often include insecticide treatments. PMPs will know which insecticides are labeled for bed bug control, and which ones should work best in local areas. PMPs also have the proper experience and application and safety equipment to make the application effectively and safely.

PMPs typically use dust formulations to treat cracks and crevices where bed bugs hide behind baseboards, inside electric or telephone outlets, beneath certain furniture, inside void areas, etc. As long as the dust stays dry, it will continue to provide some insecticidal value. They will apply liquid insecticides to bed frames, baseboards, inside furniture, and to most cracks and crevices where bed bugs may hide. Liquid insecticide applications are most effective when they are applied directly to the bed bugs, rather than relying on the bed bugs to crawl over dry insecticide residues. Always read and follow label directions before applying any insecticide.

Installing a mattress emcasement in a bed bug management program. (Photo credit: Tom Myers)

Using crack and crevice insecticide applications to treat bed bug harborage areas. (Photo credit: Tom Myers)

In multi-family buildings, all apartments and rooms need to be inspected and, if bed bugs are found, treated. It is also important to remember that all common areas, offices, storage rooms, etc., need to be inspected and treated if bed bugs are found. Inspect and treat these areas the same way as described above.

Avoid certain strategies for bed bug control that do not work. “Bug bombs” or total release foggers produce small insecticide droplets that do not penetrate areas where bed bugs hide. In addition to being ineffective, these “bombs” may pose a fire hazard if they come in contact with pilot lights or flames associated with gas appliances.

Do not simply discard beds, bedding, and other infested belongings. This practice can spread bed bugs to other areas in the apartment, room, or building. Items to be disposed of should be wrapped in plastic, sealed with tape, and marked “Do Not Salvage - Bed Bugs”.

In summary, IPM is the most effective program for eliminating bed bugs. As part of an IPM program:

• Inspect potentially infested areas.
• Correctly identify the pest.
• Keep records, including dates and locations where bed bugs are found.
• Reduce clutter that bed bugs can use to hide in.
• Physically remove bed bugs by cleaning and vacuuming.
• Use insecticides according to label directions.
• Follow up on inspections and treatments.

Use education and awareness programs to prevent bed bugs, and to control them quickly when they do occur.

*Multiple-family housing units are often thought of as apartment buildings and complexes. For the purposes of this publication the authors include dormitories, prisons, hotels, shelters, hostels, and other types of lodging in this definition. The principals discussed here apply to all housing facilities.

READ AND FOLLOW ALL LABEL INSTRUCTIONS. THIS INCLUDES DIRECTIONS FOR USE, PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (HAZARDS TO HUMANS, DOMESTIC ANIMALS, AND ENDANGERED SPECIES), ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS, RATES OF APPLICATION, NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS, REENTRY INTERVALS, HARVEST RESTRICTIONS, STORAGE AND DISPOSAL, AND ANY SPECIFIC WARNINGS AND/OR PRECAUTIONS FOR SAFE HANDLING OF THE PESTICIDE.

February 2017

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How Do Bed Bugs Travel?

Bags & personal belongings.

Bed bugs are transported by people, most often in personal belongings such as the following:

Luggage & Suitcases

Items kept close to sleep areas

They can hide in your personal belongings, or even on you, and hitchhike a ride back to your home, condo, townhouse or apartment.

A bed bug on jeans

Where do you pick them up?

It’s possible to pick up bed bugs almost any place - they've infested offices, stores, hotels, gyms and countless other places.

Prefer people over pets

The common bed bug prefers to feed on human hosts and does not prefer pets or other furry animals.

Bed bugs are easily transported into previously non-infested dwellings.

Once indoors, they can be extremely difficult to control without the help of an experienced pest specialist.

If you suspect you may have picked up some of these hitchhikers in your travels, call Orkin for a comprehensive bed bug inspection and assessment and implementation of a treatment solution.

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Can Bed Bugs Travel Through Apartment Walls?

As apartment buildings increasingly become attractive housing solutions, the massive flow of people into them has brought with it a number of challenges. Not least of which is pests like cockroaches, mice, rats, and bedbugs getting transferred from household to household. The focus of this article will be on this pest problem, paying special attention to bedbugs.

Can bedbugs travel through apartment walls? Yes, they can. Since most apartments share some common amenities such as plumbing and electrical causeways that go through the walls, the bed bugs can easily crawl in these and get to your apartment from an adjacent infested apartment.

This article will take a closer look at these elusive but common pests, highlighting their behaviors and what you can do to get rid of them.

Table of Contents

Bedbugs and where they come from

Bedbugs are a type of small crawling insect. They appear reddish brown in color when not fed, and almost entirely red when full of blood. Female bedbugs lay hundreds of eggs that can metamorphosize from nymphs to adults within a month in the right conditions.

Within a year, there can be as many as three generations of bedbugs. This means they can rapidly infest any environment they find themselves in as long as they have a good food source. Bedbugs survive exclusively on blood from warm blooded animals. They can attack both humans and pets, although some species such as the Cimex lectularius feed exclusively on human blood.

Interestingly, bedbugs and can live for up to a year without feeding. Bedbug nymphs, which look like fully grown bedbug save their slightly light color that darkens at every molting phase, will molt and shed their skins up to five times before becoming full adults. The nymph stage requires the nymph to feed on blood before each shedding.

Bedbugs are attracted to their hosts’ warm bodies and also when they release of carbon dioxide as they exhale during sleep. They do not have wings so they cannot fly away, but they can crawl rapidly to flee from capture. They hide in mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, headboard, floors, furniture, crevices and cracks on the wall during the day and only come out at night to feed.

Bedbugs can be mistaken for other insects such as small cockroaches. However, you can make the distinction by watching their movements, which are ant-like. Also, when crushed, they release a pungent odor.

Most bedbugs usually hitch a ride to get to your home through personal belongings such as clothing or even from pets. This can happen when you spend some time in an infested area. They can also make their way into your home when you buy second-hand items like furniture from owners who may have had bedbug problems.

What are the signs of a bedbug infestation?

The first sign is usually a painful and physical one characterized by a raised and swollen bump on the skin with a clear center. The bump is usually itchy with a burning sensation. This is because the bedbugs have mouth parts that saw into the skin causing it to bleed as they feed. The bumps may also occur on any exposed skin during sleep.

Stains of blood on the pillows or bed sheets may also be a sign of bedbug infestation. These may occur as a result of the bedbugs being squashed while you turn in your sleep.

As bedbugs excrete, their excrements may also be deposited on the bed sheets and pillows. These will appear as dark brown or rusty marks. In places where they hide, such as the bed frames or in cracks and crevices, egg shells and shed skin can also be found as evidence of their infestation.

Finally, bedbugs secrete a pungent and musty odor from their glands. This is another way that you can tell they are present.

What to do if you suspect a bedbug infestation?

As most bedbugs do their feeding at night while you sleep, you can gather most of your evidence from your beddings. Remove the bed sheets, covers, blankets, and mattress and take them outside. Thoroughly inspect them looking for the bugs or their excrement. This will appear as stained dark spots on the beddings.

You should also check in other household items such as books and clothes. Bedbugs are also fond of clothing and will often attach themselves to them in dark closets.

Getting rid of bedbugs

Good hygiene is the key to ensuring that bedbugs are kept at bay. If you have stayed in a hotel or at a place that may have bedbugs, make sure to clean everything you travelled with in hot water. Bedbugs will die when exposed to high temperatures.

Regularly clean your bed sheets, pillow cases and all other beddings in hot water. Next, because bedbugs do not live far from their hosts, and because they prefer living in the dark, you can discourage them by removing all clutter in your bedroom.

Removing and aerating the mattress and pillows occasionally will also help you fight off these pests. Whenever possible, make sure that your bed is not close to the wall, and make sure that your bedroom is always well-lit during the day.

The next thing you have to do is ensure that you vacuum your entire room daily. You should also do this to your beddings because it will help dispose of the molts from the nymphs and the adult bedbugs. Be careful to dispose of the contents of the vacuum bag in sealed plastic bags so that the bugs won’t crawl back into the house.

Finally, since the bedbugs can crawl through walls, cracks and crevices should be sealed off. Electrical fittings and plumbing fixtures should also be installed and fixed properly.

Final Thoughts

While bedbugs can be a nuisance, they are not known to carry any serious diseases. Most bedbug bites heal within a week if left undisturbed. However, because bacterial infections may occur on or around the bitten area, consider cleaning the area with antibacterial soap and water to prevent infection. If the wound is itchy, anti-itch cream can be procured to sooth the irritation.

Melanie Asiba

Melanie is an author, and she enjoys traveling, reading, and trying out new things. In addition to writing for Apartment ABC.

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Can Bed Bugs Travel Through Apartment Walls?

Bed bugs are quick and efficient travelers. Hence, they could be a problem for apartment dwellers. 

These creatures can absolutely travel between apartments through the walls. They could travel through the internal structures and plumbing lines of the walls. 

They can enter the walls through light switches, any cracks, or electrical outlets.

Table of Contents

Bed Bugs and How They Can Travel Through Apartment Walls 

Bed bugs are small crawling creatures that reproduce rapidly and quickly. They attack and feed on the blood of animals and humans.

They popularly hide under and inside mattresses, bed frames, headboards, and cracks in the walls. In other words, bed bugs can travel in the smallest spaces you can imagine. 

This is why they can travel through the thinnest apartment walls as well. Hence, it is no surprise that bed bugs can travel through electrical wires. 

For these reasons, they can go from one room to another and even travel between apartments. There are other reasons why bed bugs travel so quickly between apartments.

Bed bugs can easily travel between apartments because of shared connections and lines. For example, apartments often have common plumbing and electrical lines.

Bed bugs travel on or through these lines to get from one apartment to another. You should inform the property manager if you suspect or notice any bed bugs in your apartment. 

Chances are that they can travel to other apartments and cause an infestation. Hence, you should also act quickly to remove them from your apartment.

Understanding the Signs of Bed Bug Infestation in Apartments

If you suspect a bed bug infestation but are not yet sure about it, keep reading this guide. There are some signs that can point towards bed bugs infesting your apartments.

These pesky creatures can come into your apartment from your neighbors. They can also come into your home through second-hand furniture, pets, and clothes.

If you have visited a bed bug-infested area, there is a chance you could bring a few homes. These creatures are notorious for traveling on people, animals, and items.

This is typically how they enter homes. And considering how they multiply and reproduce rapidly, they can cause an infestation quickly. 

Without intervention, bed bugs would multiply to a great extent and become a major problem. Examining your body is the best way to tell if there is a bed bug in your apartment.

Bumps on Your Skin

If you notice a red, swollen, and painful bump, this could be caused by a bed bug. You might notice these bumps when you wake up since they may have been caused while sleeping.

These bumps also typically have a clear center that shows bite marks. These are all caused by bed bugs that feed on you. 

Tiny Blood Stains

Another sign of a bed bug infestation is finding blood stains on your bed sheets and pillows. These blood stains won’t belong to you but rather the bed bugs when squished.

Similarly, you might be able to notice their excrement on your pillows and bed sheets. These are typically in a rusty or dark brown color. 

Eggshells or Shedding Skin in Cracks and Crevices

Bed bugs may travel on your bed or skin, but they find shelter in small, dark spaces. For example, in headrests or cracks in the walls.

If you suspect a bed bug infestation, you should observe these areas. They might have empty eggshells or shedding skin belonging to bed bugs.

Musty Odors 

Odors are another sign of a bed bug infestation in your apartment. These creatures often release a pungent and musty odor. 

You should search for it in the same crevices and cracks where you suspect the infestation. Similarly, you should also remove the bedding and examine the bed for these signs.

You should also check the area around the bed for signs of infestation. For example, check under the bed, inside telephones and books, and under the carpet.

Once you notice any bed bugs or telltale signs of them, get rid of them at your earliest. There are several ways you can get rid of them, which we will discuss in this guide.

How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs in Your Apartment

If you notice bed bugs in your apartment, you must get rid of them as soon as possible. As established earlier, they can travel through the thinnest walls.

Hence, these creatures would enter different rooms, and it is possible for bed bugs to travel to other apartments.

Hence, before the situation worsens, follow methods of removing them from your apartment. Here are some ways you can get rid of bed bugs in your apartment:

Identify All Infested Areas

The first step to removing bed bugs from your apartment is identifying all infested areas. If you delay any further, they will reproduce, and the infestation will increase.

Catching large infested areas is much easier than small infestations. As mentioned, look for the aforementioned signs of infestation in all areas.

The best way to identify them is through a flashlight and magnifying glass. If you find any bed bugs, you can also catch them with a pair of tweezers and put them in a jar.

Do a Thorough Cleaning

The best way to get rid of bed bugs and keep them at bay is through good hygiene. This is why you should declutter your apartment and clean it thoroughly.

For example, the best way to do it is through a cleaning solution and a stiff brush. Use the two to clean the mattress and any other area where you find bed bugs.

Clean and Wash Everything

If you stayed at a hotel and then arrived at your apartment to find bed bugs, do your best to clean everything. From your suitcase to your clothes, everything should be thoroughly washed.

Make sure to put all of your clothes in the washer and scrub down suitcases. This will kill any bed bugs that may have traveled from the hotels.

Similarly, you should clean and wash your bedding. You should basically clean and wash any area where you found the bed bugs.

This is one of the most important things you should do. It is recommended to do this at your earliest. 

It is also recommended to wash them with hot water and dry them at the highest temperature. This will kill the bed bugs.

Regularly Aerate the Mattress

Another way to get rid of bed bugs is by aerating the mattress and cleaning it. This will remove any bed bugs that are living on the mattress. 

Do the same with pillows. You should also practice this and make this a habit to avoid a bed bug infestation in the future. 

Vacuum Your Apartment Daily

Once you have washed and cleaned the sheets, vacuum your apartment. Throw away the accumulated dust because chances are there might be some bed bugs in it.

Vacuuming will remove any bed bugs, especially those hiding in carpets or under the bed. You can remove bed bugs hiding in small spaces with the use of a vacuum.

Basically, run a vacuum in any of the bed bugs’ hiding spots. Similarly, you should vacuum your apartment daily to prevent a bed bug infestation. 

Repair Any Cracks in the Walls

As mentioned earlier, bed bugs travel to other apartments through the walls. They get access to the walls through electrical sockets, switches, and cracks.

Cracks and open spaces are the easiest way for them to travel. Hence, there’s a chance bed bugs came into your apartment through them.

Hence, once you have removed and cleaned all the bed bugs in your apartment, you should seal the cracks. Sealing these open areas will help prevent a future infestation.

Doing this will also remove any hiding spots for the bed bugs. Therefore, glue down peeling wallpaper and seal cracks.

Additionally, apply tape on any of the open electrical sockets. You should also move your bed a few inches away from the wall.

This way, they won’t be able to travel to your bed. 

How to Keep the Bed Bugs Out 

Once you have properly removed all the bed bugs from your apartments, you should practice preventative techniques. These will ensure the bed bugs stay out and won’t return to your apartment.

The best way to ensure they don’t return is through regular and thorough cleaning of your apartment. Hence, wash your sheets regularly and vacuum the apartment daily. 

Additionally, don’t leave any clutter because that makes it easy for them to hide. Get rid of any papers and items you don’t need.

Whenever you come home from a hotel, ensure that your clothes and items are not covered. This is especially necessary if you notice any bed bugs in the hotel. 

Final Words

Bed bugs are sneaky creatures that are known to be the quickest travelers. This is why they can easily travel through the thinnest apartment walls .

You should therefore ensure that you prevent their infestation and get rid of them at your earliest. Clean your apartment and sheets to get rid of bed bugs.

This will also prevent them from returning. Ensure good hygiene and a clean apartment, as the bed bugs would likely not return.  

Other articles you may also like:

• Who Pays for the Bed Bugs in Apartment Buildings?
• Who Is Responsible for Bed Bugs? The Landlord or the Tenant?
• How to Prevent Bed Bugs in an Apartment (7 Easy Ways)
• Why Are There Gnats in My Apartment?
• How to Get Rid of Ants in Apartment? 9 Effective Methods!
• Why are Flies Coming into My Apartment

I Moved Into An Apartment With Bed Bugs 10 Years Ago — Here’s What I Wish I’d Known

Until 10 years ago, I thought bed bugs were nothing more than a childhood nursery rhyme. You know the one: "Sleep tight; don't let the bed bugs bite." But then I unknowingly moved into a bed bug-infested building, and what ensued was hands down the worst year of my life. If you want to avoid avoid the physical, emotional, and financial turmoil that accompanies a bed bug infestation, then you need to know how to tell if an apartment has bed bugs before you sign the lease.

While bed bugs are present in every city, Terminix recently release its annual report of the most bed bug infested cities in the U.S. Topping the list are Philadelphia, New York City, Dallas-Fort Worth, Indianapolis, and Cincinnati. The report noted that 22% of people have had an experience with bed bugs, yet 48% don't know what kind of precautions to take in order to prevent them. Fear not my friendlies: I am here to share with you what I wish I'd known before moving into a bed bug-infested apartment .

Fortunately, in 2019, landlords are prohibited from renting units with known infestations, and most states require property managers to provide tenants with information about bed bugs , according to the legal site Nolo. I received this information with my most recent lease. It included a clause that said the apartment was free of bed bugs as well as information about what to do if you suspect you have bed bugs in the future.

But before I get into how to make sure you're not moving into a building with a bed bug problem, here's the quick and dirty about bed bugs. It's important to know that although they're called bed bugs, they can be found on any surface, including in between floorboards, under carpets, and even inside of books . Bed bugs are nocturnal, meaning they come out at night to feast on the blood of humans. While they don't transmit diseases , according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the bites are itchier than anything I've ever experienced.

If you think you can't get them because you practice a level of cleanliness that could rival Monica from Friends , bed bugs only eat blood, so it doesn't matter how clean your home is. As long as there is blood in your body, you're a very attractive meal for a bed bug.

In addition, bed bugs are notoriously hard to get rid of since the ban on the pesticide DDT in the 1970s, according to the College of Agriculture, Food and Environment at the University of Kentucky. They're also very hard to see until they become adults, and even then they are only about as big as an apple seed. This is why you want to do everything you can to avoid getting them in the first place.

What's more, they can go up to 18 months without feeding. This means that even if you're moving into an apartment that's been vacant for a while, you should still check for bed bugs before signing the lease. Because bed bugs can travel on clothes and other items, a never-lived-in unit can also have bed bugs.

The first thing you can do before viewing a potential apartment is to read Yelp reviews of the building and/or property management company, and check the address against the Bed Bug Registry . This is a site where people report bed bugs at hotels and residential properties. Because this information is self-reported, there is no guarantee a unit is safe just because it's not listed on the registry, but it's a good first step. I have checked every apartment I have lived in during the last 10 years against the registry.

In addition, if any unit in the building you're looking at has been listed in the past year, know that bed bugs can easily travel from one unit to another in an apartment building. If the building is listed as having had a problem several years ago, it might be worth considering if you ask a lot of questions and get information from the property manager about their bed bug protocol.

Another thing you can do is take a playing card and run it along cracks between the baseboards and the floor and in between floorboards to see if any brown fecal matter or molted skin is visible . If the apartment is carpeted, try to pull up a section of carpet next to the wall to check for fecal matter or run a card in the area where the carpet meets the wall. The site Sniff K9s suggests using a blow dryer and running it over the same areas to check for live bed bugs . You can also hire a bed bug-sniffing dog to come check out the apartment before you sign your lease.

Overall, the best way to ensure the apartment you're moving into is bed bug free is to arm yourself with information. Look up the laws in your city and state to find out what your landlord is required to tell you and who is responsible for paying for extermination should an infestation occur. Physically check out the unit using the aforementioned methods, check the registry, and read reviews of the building.

If anything feels off, walk away. While bed bugs are easier to manage and eradicate than they were 10 years ago ⁠— because there is more information available now ⁠— this is one experience you definitely don't want to have. It's been 10 years since my bed bug nightmare, and I'm still not over it.

What if Another Tenant in My Building Has Bed Bugs?

Depending on factors like the city where you live and type of building you live in, your landlord may be legally required to keep your apartment free of bed bugs and other insect infestations. But what happens if the infestation isn’t in your apartment? If your neighbor has bed bugs, is your landlord responsible? Is the affected tenant required to take any action? Most importantly, is there anything you can do before the bugs spread to your unit? Our apartment bed bug infestation attorneys explain some of the legal considerations tenants of multi-unit buildings should be aware of.

Can Bed Bugs Travel From Apartment to Apartment?

Yes, they can. As you may be aware, bed bugs are expert travelers; with that in mind, it comes as no surprise they can absolutely travel from one infested apartment to neighboring units.

Can Bed Bugs Travel Through Apartment Walls?

Bed bugs aren’t taking hallways and staircases like you and your neighbors do. So, how exactly do bed bugs travel between apartments? Bed bugs can enter the walls of an infested room through light switches, outlets, and essentially any cracks or voids present. They can squeeze into any space big enough for a credit card to fit. Once they’re in the apartment walls, bed bugs can easily travel along electrical wires and pipes to reach other units.

Can Bed Bugs Travel From House to House on Their Own?

Bed bugs can hide in clothing, linens, furniture, luggage, and other belongings to find new homes across the street, on the other end of town, or even the opposite side of the country.  Guests in an infested home or apartment can easily and unknowingly spread the infestation back to their own home.

How to Tell If There’s Bed Bugs in Your Apartment Building

Bed bugs are notorious for their ability to spread rapidly. Thanks to the combination of short breeding cycles, large broods of eggs, and ever-increasing resistance against some of the most common types of insecticides and pest control products, it takes only a few months (and sometimes only a few weeks) for small populations to explode into full-blown infestations. While bed bugs are cause for concern in any living environment, these factors make them a particularly serious problem in crowded quarters — for example, urban apartment buildings.

But how will you know if your neighbor has bed bugs in the first place? After all, you certainly can’t confirm your suspicions by sneaking into his or her unit. The sudden appearance of itchy red bites on your skin, red spot on your sheets, and bed bugs on your laundry, in your bed, or on your walls is another clear indication that a population already exists somewhere inside the building.  Also, if your neighbor begins to move furniture out of their unit, especially mattresses, it is a sign they are dealing with bed bugs.

Keep in mind that bed bugs are speedy travelers capable of covering distances of up to three feet per minute, so if they’ve infested your neighbor’s apartment, it’s only a matter of time before they spread to your unit as well. Walls, ceilings, light switches, and pipes are all pathways that bed bugs use to travel to seek out human blood.

But what, if anything, can you get the building’s landlord to do about it? Do renters have any legal recourse when it comes to apartment units they don’t actually pay for? Or are you simply out of luck until the affected tenant complains?

How Property Code Affects Tenant-Landlord Bed Bug Liability

The answer depends partially on the building code in the community where you live. However, while each town and city is governed in part by its own municipal code, these local codes are sometimes superseded by the IPMC, or International Property Maintenance Code. The IPMC belongs to a family of national codes, such as the International Plumbing Code and the International Private Sewage Disposal Code, which are administered by the International Code Council (ICC). These codes are collectively referred to as “I-Codes.”

As we discussed in our previous blog post about landlord responsibility for bed bugs , some of the key IPMC factors which impact pest control liability are the total number of units in the building and the type of dwelling it is. For example, one portion of the code specifies that renters in multi-unit buildings are responsible for bed bug extermination in cases where only the renter’s unit has bed bugs.  However, if one unit is infested, it is almost certain they are not the only unit dealing with an infestation. 

What Should I Do If My Neighbor Has Bedbugs?

• Visually inspect your apartment’s furniture with a flashlight. Check your sofa, dressers, nightstands, and your bed. Signs of bed bugs include small blood spots, black spots, caste skins of immature bed bugs, and of course bed bugs themselves.
• Check your belongings and shoes before entering your unit. Do not set purses, backpacks, or shopping bags on the ground outside your door.
• Avoid contact with your neighbor until the building is cleared by a pest management professional.
• Contact your landlord in writing to (1) report your concerns about the infestation spreading and (2) to determine if bed bug inspection or treatment is necessary. Since bed bugs live in cracks, outlets, and voids, units that share a wall with an infected apartment are at higher risks of bed bug infestations.

My Apartment Has Bed Bugs — What Are My Rights?

So what does this all mean for you as a tenant? In some jurisdictions, any infestation in a rental unit is the property owner and/or operator’s responsibility. In other jurisdictions, as long as your neighbor’s unit is the only one being affected, he or she assumes financial responsibility for addressing the infestation. However, if the infestation spreads to other units in the building — yours, for example — then responsibility for extermination measures can potentially shift to the landlord. Of course, each situation is different, and there are other factors that can become important when determining responsibility for treating an infestation.

If your landlord is considered responsible for handling extermination, he or she should always hire a licensed pest control company . In most jurisdictions, only licensed professional exterminators can safely (and legally) apply certain pesticides and other pest control treatments, including heat treatment. 

Unfortunately, landlords often try to cut corners by relying on cheap and ineffective DIY treatments — typically foggers or consumer-grade bug spray. Some landlords even attempt to perform heat treatment themselves, all to the extreme detriment of their tenants, which can worsen the infestation and cause it to be driven deeper into hiding. If you sustain bite-related injuries because your landlord refuses to pay for professional extermination measures, you may be able to recover financial compensation by filing a personal injury claim.

Whitney, LLP has been fighting for victims of bed bug infestations for many years. As experienced attorneys in bed bug infestations in Maryland, the team at Whitney, LLP has secured significant settlements for those that have suffered due to the negligence of others.

As seen in many of their bed bug and termite fraud settlements , the lawyers at Whitney, LLP have worked diligently to ensure that their clients receive fair compensation for damages and injuries sustained by seemingly indifferent landlords and realty management companies. 

By using the standard of Maryland law as their guiding principle, these attorneys have been able to receive just settlements like that in the case of Han v. Highland #689 LLC et al . Non-disclosure of a previous infestation creates the basis to allege fraudulent concealment and violation of Maryland’s Consumer Protection Act.  In the Han case a  young woman moved into a unit and almost immediately began to experience bed bugs.  She recovered a $70,000.00 settlement after alleging she was never informed of the company’s unsuccessful treatment of the townhouse for bed bugs up to the day before she moved into her new residence.

The Maryland Consumer Protection Act, as well as other precedents regarding negligence and fraud, are intended to hold landlords responsible for their actions. The attorneys at Whitney, LLP have extensive experience navigating the often complex legal process and can assist their clients in fighting for what is rightfully theirs.

Contact Us for What to Do If Your Neighbor Has Bed Bugs

Worried there are bed bugs in the apartment next door? Do you feel your landlord isn’t doing all they can to address the issue? We’re here to help.

If you’re concerned that your landlord or other tenants in your building are violating state laws or municipal health code, the bed bug litigation attorneys of Whitney, LLP may be able to be of assistance. Recovery can include fees you have wrongfully paid, and attorneys’ fees. To start learning some of your options in a free and private legal consultation, call our law offices today at (410) 583-8000.

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How Do Bed Bugs Travel In Apartment Buildings? Solved

Last Updated on March 23, 2024 by Alene Schill

Small, bothersome bed bugs are notorious for feeding on blood and causing frustration and discomfort for anyone who encounters them.

One of the most challenging aspects of dealing with bed bugs is their ability to spread quickly and easily from one location to another. 

This is especially concerning for people living in apartment buildings, as bed bugs can easily travel from one unit to another, making it difficult to eradicate them. 

We will explore how bed bugs travel in apartment buildings, including the common routes they take and the steps you can take to prevent them from spreading. 

Table of Contents

How Do Bed Bugs Move From One Apartment To Another?

Bed bugs [ 1 ] are skilled at moving from one apartment to another and can use various methods.

They can crawl through wall voids and electrical outlets, move along pipes and wires, and travel through shared spaces like hallways and laundry rooms. 

Bed bugs can also hitchhike on clothing, bedding, and furniture, making it crucial to take precautions when transporting personal belongings. 

If an infested apartment is near the HVAC system, bed bugs could spread through the walls to other apartments. 

It is essential to be vigilant and take proactive measures to prevent the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings, such as regular inspections and prompt treatment.

How Do Bed Bugs Enter An Apartment Building?

Bed bugs can enter an apartment building in a variety of ways. They are excellent hitchhikers and can attach to clothing, bags, and other personal belongings. 

Bed bugs can also crawl through cracks and crevices in walls, floors, and ceilings.

Additionally, bed bugs are commonly found in secondhand furniture, which can be brought into an apartment building without proper inspection. 

Once inside an apartment building, bed bugs can quickly spread to other units, making it crucial for tenants and landlords to take proactive measures to prevent infestations.

Can Bed Bugs Travel Through The HVAC System In An Apartment Building?

Bed bugs are not known to travel through HVAC systems in apartment buildings. However, they can move through wall voids and other spaces connected to the HVAC system. 

If an infested apartment is near the HVAC system, bed bugs could spread through the walls to other apartments.

“ I installed a skylight in my apartment… the people who live above me are furious!” – Steven Wright, American Solo Comedian

It is essential for landlords and property managers to regularly inspect and maintain the HVAC system to prevent the spread of bed bugs and other pests. 

Additionally, tenants should be educated on the importance of promptly reporting any signs of infestation to their landlords to prevent the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings.

How Can You Prevent Bed Bugs From Spreading In An Apartment Building?

• Education : Educate tenants about bed bug prevention and encourage them to report any infestation signs immediately.
• Inspection : Regularly inspect apartments for signs of bed bugs, such as blood spots on bedding, shed skins, or live bugs.
• Treatment : If an infestation is identified, promptly treat the affected apartment and surrounding units with professional-grade insecticides [ 2 ].
• Encapsulation : Use mattress and box spring encasements to prevent bed bugs from infesting these items.
• Furniture inspection : Inspect all secondhand furniture before bringing it into the building.
• Sealing : Seal cracks and crevices in walls, floors, and ceilings to prevent bed bugs from entering the building.
• Laundry : Wash and dry all bedding and clothing at high temperatures to kill bed bugs or eggs.

What Should You Do If You Suspect A Bed Bug Infestation In Your Apartment Building?

If you suspect a bed bug infestation in your apartment building, it is crucial to take immediate action.

Notify your landlord or property manager right away and request an inspection. 

If an infestation is confirmed, work with your landlord to develop a treatment plan to eliminate the bed bugs and prevent their spread to other apartments. 

In the meantime, take steps to prevent the spread of bed bugs by avoiding contact with infested areas, washing and drying bedding and clothing at high temperatures, and vacuuming regularly. 

It is also essential to follow any instructions provided by pest control professionals and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your family from insecticide exposure. 

How fast do bed bugs spread in an apartment building?

Bed bugs can spread quickly in an apartment building, with infestations potentially growing from a few bugs to hundreds or thousands within just a few months.

The exact rate of spread can vary depending on factors such as the size of the building, the severity of the infestation, and the effectiveness of control measures.

How long can bed bugs live in an apartment?

Bed bugs can live for several months to a year or longer in an apartment, depending on the availability of food (blood), temperature, and humidity.

Final Thoughts

Bed bugs are a challenging pest that can quickly spread throughout apartment buildings, making them difficult to control. 

These tiny insects can enter apartments through various means, including hitchhiking on personal belongings or crawling through cracks and crevices in walls and floors. 

Once inside, bed bugs can quickly move from one apartment to another, making it crucial to take proactive measures to prevent their spread. 

By understanding the behavior of bed bugs and taking steps such as regular inspections, treatment, and education, tenants and landlords can work together to keep apartment buildings free of these unwanted visitors. 

If a bed bug infestation is suspected, prompt action should be taken to prevent the infestation from becoming more severe and to protect the health and well-being of those living in the building.

References:

• https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/guide/bedbugs-infestation
• https://www.epa.gov/caddis-vol2/insecticides

Alene Schill is a property manager from Columbus, Ohio, who has dealt with numerous pest control agencies. She helps families find the perfect homes and knows very well that bed bugs are an ultimate deal-breaker. She enjoys cycling around Scioto Mile during her spare time.

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Home > diy > Building & Construction > How Do Bed Bugs Spread In An Apartment Building

• Building & Construction

How Do Bed Bugs Spread In An Apartment Building

Modified: January 9, 2024

Written by: Daniel Carter

Learn how bed bugs can quickly spread in apartment buildings due to the close proximity of units and shared spaces. Discover effective strategies for preventing and eliminating these pests in building-construction.

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• Introduction

Living in an apartment building has its perks – convenient amenities, close proximity to neighbors, and a sense of community. However, there is one unwelcome guest that can disrupt the peace and comfort of apartment living: bed bugs. These tiny, blood-sucking pests are notorious for infesting apartments and rapidly spreading from one unit to another.

Bed bugs are incredibly resilient and can survive for months without feeding. They can hitch a ride on clothing, furniture, or even luggage, making it easy for them to move from one apartment to another. Once they make their way into an apartment building, they can quickly infest multiple units, causing discomfort and frustration for residents.

Understanding how bed bugs spread in apartment buildings is essential in order to prevent and control infestations. In this article, we will explore the factors that contribute to the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings and discuss effective strategies to prevent and eliminate these pesky pests.

Key Takeaways:

• Collaboration and communication among residents, proactive education, and regular inspections are crucial in preventing the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings. A united front is essential for a pest-free living environment.
• Proper disposal of infested items, sealing cracks and crevices, and comprehensive treatment plans are vital in eradicating bed bug infestations. Ongoing education and preventive measures are key to maintaining a pest-free environment.

Read more : How Fast Do Bed Bugs Spread

• Understanding Bed Bugs

Before we delve into the factors that contribute to the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings, it is important to have a basic understanding of these pests. Bed bugs are small insects that feed on human blood. They are nocturnal creatures that typically hide during the day and come out at night to feed on sleeping hosts.

Bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers and can easily travel from place to place by clinging onto clothing, bedding, or furniture. Contrary to popular belief, bed bugs do not discriminate between clean and dirty environments. They can infest homes, hotels, hospitals, and yes, even apartment buildings.

The most common sign of a bed bug infestation is waking up with itchy, red bites on your body that are often arranged in a cluster or a line. You may also notice small blood stains on your sheets or dark spots on your mattress, which are the bed bug droppings.

It is important to note that bed bugs are not a sign of poor hygiene or cleanliness. They are simply opportunistic creatures that are drawn to warmth, darkness, and the carbon dioxide we exhale during sleep. So, if you find yourself dealing with bed bugs in your apartment building, understand that it is not your fault.

Now that we have a better understanding of bed bugs, let’s explore the factors that contribute to their spread in apartment buildings.

• Factors Contributing to the Spread of Bed Bugs in Apartment Buildings

Apartment buildings provide the perfect environment for bed bugs to thrive and multiply. The close proximity of units, shared spaces, and constant movement of residents all contribute to the rapid spread of these pests. Here are some key factors that contribute to the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings.

• Lack of Awareness and Education: Many people are unaware of the signs of a bed bug infestation and may unknowingly bring them into the building. Without proper education and awareness, residents may not take the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of bed bugs.
• Infested Furniture and Belongings: Infested furniture and belongings brought into the building are one of the primary ways that bed bugs are introduced. Residents may unknowingly bring in secondhand furniture, mattresses, or clothing that is infested with bed bugs, allowing them to spread throughout the building.
• Cracks and Crevices in Walls and Flooring: Apartment buildings often have numerous hiding spots for bed bugs, such as cracks and crevices in walls, floors, and baseboards. These hiding spots provide ideal conditions for bed bugs to lay their eggs and multiply, making it easier for them to spread to neighboring units.
• Shared Laundry Facilities: Shared laundry facilities in apartment buildings can be a hot spot for bed bug activity. Bed bugs can easily hitch a ride on clothing or bedding and infest the laundry machines, leading to the spread of these pests to other residents’ clothing and belongings.
• Visitors and Neighbors: Visitors or neighbors who are unknowingly infested with bed bugs can easily transfer the pests to other units. Bed bugs can crawl from one apartment to another through cracks in walls, electrical outlets, or shared ventilation systems.

Understanding these factors is crucial in developing effective strategies to prevent, detect, and eliminate bed bug infestations in apartment buildings. In the next section, we will discuss preventative measures to help stop the spread of bed bugs.

• Lack of Awareness and Education

One of the primary factors contributing to the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings is the lack of awareness and education among residents. Many people are simply unaware of what bed bugs are, how they spread, and how to prevent infestations. This can lead to a lack of vigilance and unintentional actions that facilitate the spread of these pests.

Without proper education, residents may not know the signs of a bed bug infestation or how to take preventive measures. They may not inspect their belongings or furniture before bringing them into their apartment, unknowingly introducing bed bugs into the building. Additionally, residents may not take immediate action to report a bed bug infestation, allowing it to spread to neighboring units.

Education is key in combating the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings. Property managers and landlords should provide educational materials and resources to tenants, informing them about the signs of bed bugs, how to prevent infestations, and what steps to take if they suspect an infestation. This can be done through informational brochures, workshops, or online resources.

Tenant education should include information on how to properly inspect secondhand furniture or other items before bringing them into the apartment. Teaching residents how to identify bed bugs, their eggs, and signs of infestations can help them take early preventive measures and report any issues promptly.

In addition to educating residents, property managers should also prioritize their own education and training on bed bug prevention and control. This will enable them to provide accurate information and guidance to tenants, as well as have the knowledge required to implement effective prevention and control measures in the building.

By addressing the lack of awareness and education about bed bugs in apartment buildings, residents can be better equipped to prevent the spread of these pests. This knowledge empowers individuals and encourages a proactive approach to keeping the building bed bug-free.

• Infested Furniture and Belongings

Infested furniture and belongings pose a significant risk for the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings. Bed bugs are skilled hitchhikers and can easily attach themselves to furniture, mattresses, clothing, and other items.

Residents may unknowingly bring in infested furniture or secondhand items into their apartments, providing a haven for bed bugs to thrive. Even seemingly clean and well-maintained furniture can harbor these pests. They can hide in the seams, crevices, or cracks of furniture, making it difficult to detect their presence.

When infested furniture is brought into an apartment, the bed bugs quickly spread to other areas. They crawl out of the furniture and start infesting neighboring units, creating a domino effect of infestations within the building.

To prevent the spread of bed bugs through infested furniture and belongings, it is essential for residents to take precautions. Before bringing any secondhand furniture or items into their apartment, residents should thoroughly inspect them for signs of bed bug activity. Look for live bugs, shed exoskeletons, dark spots (which are bed bug droppings), or bloodstains.

If signs of bed bugs are found, it is crucial to avoid bringing the infested item into the building. Instead, residents should consider discarding the item or contacting a professional pest control company to handle the situation properly. Taking such proactive measures can prevent infestations from taking hold in the apartment building.

For existing furniture and belongings, regular inspections and maintenance are key. Residents should periodically check their furniture, mattresses, and upholstery for signs of bed bugs. If any signs are detected, immediate action should be taken, such as contacting a pest control professional for treatment.

In the case of an active bed bug infestation, it is important to properly dispose of infested furniture and belongings to prevent the spread of these pests. Seal the items securely in plastic bags and label them as “infested” to avoid others from unknowingly picking them up. Additionally, inform the building management or landlord about the infestation so that appropriate steps can be taken to address the issue in a prompt and efficient manner.

By being cautious about infested furniture and belongings, residents can help minimize the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings and maintain a pest-free environment for everyone.

Read more : Where Do Bed Bugs Live

• Cracks and Crevices in Walls and Flooring

One of the prime locations for bed bugs to hide and breed in apartment buildings is the cracks and crevices in walls and flooring. These tiny pests are incredibly adept at squeezing into small spaces, making these gaps the perfect harborage sites.

Cracks and crevices in walls and flooring provide bed bugs with a safe and secluded place to lay their eggs, hide during the day, and emerge at night to feed on sleeping hosts. These pests can easily travel through electrical outlets, gaps around baseboards, or openings in walls to move from one apartment to another.

The presence of cracks and crevices in apartment buildings is often inevitable, as wear and tear, settling of the structure, and other factors can create these openings. Additionally, repairs or renovations in neighboring units can inadvertently create new hiding spots for bed bugs.

To prevent the spread of bed bugs through cracks and crevices, it is essential to seal off these potential entry points. Property managers should regularly inspect and maintain the building’s walls and flooring, repairing any cracks or openings found. This can be achieved through caulking, patching, or using appropriate sealants to close off these gaps.

It is recommended to involve professional pest control services to address cracks and crevices effectively. They have the expertise and tools to identify and seal off potential entry points that may not be immediately visible. By sealing off these openings, the spread of bed bugs within the building can be significantly reduced.

Residents can also play a role in preventing the spread of bed bugs through cracks and crevices. They should inspect their own apartments for any signs of cracks or openings and report them to the building management or landlord promptly. In addition, residents should avoid using DIY methods to seal off cracks, as some materials may not be effective in deterring bed bugs.

By addressing and sealing off cracks and crevices in walls and flooring, apartment buildings can create a more inhospitable environment for bed bugs, reducing their ability to spread throughout the building.

• Shared Laundry Facilities

Shared laundry facilities in apartment buildings can be a hotspot for bed bug activity and a major contributor to their spread. Bed bugs have a knack for hitchhiking on clothing, bedding, and other fabrics, making the laundry room an ideal place for them to move from one apartment to another.

When an infested item is brought into the laundry room, the bed bugs can quickly crawl off and infest the machines, folding tables , or nearby surfaces. As residents use the machines to wash or dry their clothes, the bed bugs can transfer onto their clothing, thus spreading to other units when the clothing is taken back to the respective apartments.

To prevent the spread of bed bugs through shared laundry facilities, it is essential to establish proper protocols and guidelines for their use and maintenance.

First and foremost, regular cleaning and inspections of the laundry room should be conducted by building management or staff to identify any signs of bed bug activity. This includes checking machines, countertops, and other surfaces for live bugs, eggs, or other indications of infestations.

Moreover, it is crucial for residents to take individual responsibility for preventing the spread of bed bugs through the laundry room. They should inspect their clothing and other items before bringing them into the laundry facility. If bed bugs are suspected or detected, the infested items should not be taken to the laundry room, but instead should be handled separately and treated accordingly.

When using the machines, residents should avoid leaving their belongings unattended for long periods, as this provides an opportunity for bed bugs to crawl onto their items. It is also important to properly package and transport laundry, such as using sealed bags, to prevent bed bugs from escaping or hitching a ride.

Regular maintenance and cleaning of the laundry machines is essential. The machines should be inspected and, if necessary, treated for bed bugs by a professional pest control service. This can help eliminate any existing infestations and prevent new ones from occurring.

By implementing proper protocols, regular inspections, and resident education, the spread of bed bugs through shared laundry facilities can be minimized, creating a safer and more hygienic environment for apartment building residents.

• Visitors and Neighbors

Visitors and neighbors have the potential to play a significant role in the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings. Bed bugs are notorious hitchhikers and can easily crawl from one apartment to another through various means, including shared walls, electrical outlets, or even ventilation systems.

Visitors to an infested apartment can unknowingly carry bed bugs on their clothing, bags, or belongings, allowing the pests to gain access to other parts of the building. Similarly, neighbors who are dealing with a bed bug infestation can inadvertently transport the pests to common areas or shared spaces.

To prevent the spread of bed bugs through visitors and neighbors, it is essential to increase awareness and promote proactive measures:

• Education: Tenants should be educated about the signs of bed bugs and how to prevent their spread. This knowledge can be shared through informational pamphlets, building-wide meetings, or online resources. By educating residents, they can take precautions and inform their visitors about the potential risks of spreading bed bugs.
• Communication: Open communication channels should be established among residents. If a resident is dealing with an active bed bug infestation, they should notify their neighbors and building management. This allows others to be vigilant and take preventive measures to avoid introducing bed bugs into their units.
• Vigilance: Residents should be encouraged to inspect their units regularly for signs of bed bugs. If they suspect an infestation or notice any suspicious activity, they should promptly report it to building management or a pest control professional. This early intervention can prevent further spread and minimize the impact on the entire building.
• Visitor Guidelines: It can be beneficial to establish visitor guidelines that emphasize the importance of preventing the spread of bed bugs. This may include guidelines such as not bringing in secondhand furniture, inspecting belongings before entering the building, or using designated entrances to minimize contact with potential infested areas.
• Collaboration: Building management and residents should work together to address any bed bug issues promptly. This may involve coordinating professional inspections and treatments, providing resources for affected residents, or offering support in terms of education and prevention strategies.

By increasing awareness, promoting communication, and encouraging vigilance among residents, the spread of bed bugs through visitors and neighbors can be minimized. Collaboration and proactive measures are key to maintaining a bed bug-free environment in apartment buildings.

To prevent bed bugs from spreading in an apartment building, regularly inspect for signs of infestation, educate residents about bed bug prevention, and promptly address any reported issues to prevent further spread.

• Preventing the Spread of Bed Bugs in Apartment Buildings

Preventing the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings requires a comprehensive approach that involves both proactive measures from building management and active participation from residents. By implementing the following strategies, the risk of bed bug infestations can be minimized, creating a healthier and more comfortable living environment for everyone:

• Regular Inspections and Monitoring: Building management should conduct regular inspections of units, common areas, and shared spaces to detect any signs of bed bug activity. Prompt action can be taken to address infestations before they have a chance to spread.
• Proper Disposal of Infested Items: When residents discover infested furniture, mattresses, or other belongings, they should properly dispose of them to prevent further spread. This involves sealing the items in plastic bags and labeling them as “infested” to alert others.
• Sealing Cracks and Crevices: Regular maintenance should be performed to identify and seal off cracks, crevices, and other potential entry points for bed bugs. Professional pest control services can be utilized to ensure thorough and effective sealing.
• Educating Tenants and Staff: Building management should provide educational materials, workshops, or online resources to educate residents about bed bugs, their signs, and prevention methods. Proper training should also be provided to building staff to effectively detect and address infestations.
• Collaboration and Communication among Residents: Open communication among residents is crucial in preventing the spread of bed bugs. Encouraging residents to report suspected infestations, share information, and support one another in addressing bed bug issues creates a unified approach.

Additionally, individual residents can take proactive steps to protect themselves and their apartments:

• Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of your apartment for any signs of bed bugs, such as bites, bloodstains, or dark spots. Promptly report any suspicions to building management.
• Preventive Measures: Avoid bringing in secondhand furniture or items of unknown origin without thorough inspection. Encase mattresses and box springs in bed bug-proof covers to prevent infestations.
• Vigilance during Travel: When traveling, inspect luggage and clothing for any signs of bed bugs before returning to the apartment. Use luggage racks or stands to keep items off the floor in hotel rooms.
• Laundry Precautions: Inspect and shake out clothing before placing it in shared laundry machines. Put clothes in sealed bags when transporting them to and from the laundry room.
• Proper Response: If you suspect a bed bug infestation, immediately report it to building management. Follow their guidelines in terms of treatments, inspections, and necessary steps to prevent further spread.

By combining these preventive measures, apartment buildings can significantly reduce the risk of bed bug infestations and minimize their spread. Proactive actions, education, and collaboration are vital in ensuring a bed bug-free environment for all residents.

Read more : How Fast Do Bed Bugs Reproduce

• Regular Inspections and Monitoring

Regular inspections and monitoring are essential in preventing the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings. Building management should conduct routine inspections of units, common areas, and shared spaces to detect any signs of bed bug activity. These inspections serve as a proactive approach to identify and address infestations before they have a chance to spread throughout the building.

During inspections, trained professionals should carefully examine areas where bed bugs are most likely to hide, such as beds, upholstered furniture, cracks in walls and flooring, and electrical outlets. They look for live bugs, shed exoskeletons, dark spots (which are bed bug droppings), and eggs. If any signs of bed bugs are detected, prompt action should be taken to treat the affected areas and prevent further infestations.

Additionally, the use of monitoring devices like bed bug traps or interception devices can be helpful in detecting bed bugs early on. These devices can be placed strategically around the building to catch any bed bugs that may be crawling between units or in common areas.

Residents should also be encouraged to report any suspected bed bug activity to building management. Prompt reporting allows for swift inspections and targeted treatments, minimizing the spread of these pests.

Regular inspections and monitoring not only help detect and address existing infestations, but they also serve as a preventive measure by identifying potential bed bug introduction sources. By proactively addressing these sources, such as cracks and crevices in walls, residents bringing in infested furniture, or other factors specific to the building, the risk of bed bug infestations can be significantly reduced.

It is important for building management to develop a comprehensive inspection and monitoring schedule, ensuring that all areas vulnerable to bed bug infestations are thoroughly checked. Regular inspections, along with resident cooperation and awareness, create a proactive approach to keeping apartment buildings free from bed bugs and providing residents with peace of mind.

• Proper Disposal of Infested Items

Proper disposal of infested items is a crucial step in preventing the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings. When residents discover furniture, mattresses, or other belongings that are infested with bed bugs, it is important to handle their disposal appropriately to avoid further infestations.

Infested items should be securely wrapped and sealed in heavy-duty plastic bags to contain the bed bugs and prevent them from escaping. It is important to ensure that the bags are tightly sealed to prevent any potential spread of bed bugs during transportation or disposal.

Labeling the bags as “infested” can help alert others and prevent accidental contact or retrieval of the infested items. This simple action serves as a clear warning to building staff, residents, or waste management personnel to handle the bags with caution and avoid spreading the bed bugs.

It is crucial to follow the guidelines and regulations set by local waste management authorities for the disposal of infested items. Some areas may require specific instructions for disposing of infested furniture, mattresses, or large items. This may include scheduling a special pick-up or bringing them to designated waste disposal areas.

Building management should work closely with residents to ensure they are aware of the proper procedures and provide guidance on how to dispose of infested items. Clear communication between management and residents is key in minimizing the risk of others inadvertently coming into contact with infested furniture or belongings.

In some cases, it may be necessary to contact a professional pest control company to handle the disposal of infested items. They have the expertise, tools, and experience to properly handle infested materials and ensure they are disposed of in a manner that does not contribute to the spread of bed bugs.

By properly disposing of infested items, apartment buildings can effectively break the cycle of bed bug infestations. It eliminates potential hiding places for bed bugs and reduces the risk of other residents inadvertently coming into contact with the infested items and introducing bed bugs into their units.

Proper disposal, in conjunction with other preventive measures, plays a crucial role in keeping apartment buildings free from bed bugs while maintaining a safe and healthy living environment for all residents.

• Sealing Cracks and Crevices

Sealing cracks and crevices in apartment buildings is an effective strategy to prevent the spread of bed bugs. These tiny pests are experts at finding small hiding spots, and cracks and crevices in walls, flooring, and furniture provide perfect harborage sites for them to thrive and reproduce.

To minimize the opportunities for bed bugs to infest the building, it is essential to proactively seal off these potential entry points. Building management should conduct regular inspections to identify cracks, gaps, or openings that could serve as hiding places for bed bugs.

Professional pest control services can be utilized to properly seal the cracks and crevices. They have the knowledge, expertise, and appropriate sealants to effectively close off these entry points. Depending on the severity and location of the cracks, various sealing methods such as caulking, patching, or using weather stripping may be employed. It is important to select high-quality sealants that are specifically designed to deter bed bugs.

Sealing cracks and crevices not only helps prevent the entry of bed bugs into individual units but also prevents their movement between units. By closing off these potential access points, the spread of bed bugs can be significantly limited within the apartment building.

In addition to structural cracks, attention should also be given to other areas prone to bed bug activity, such as electrical outlets, baseboards, and gaps around pipes or cables. Special attention should be given to areas near beds and furniture, as these are common hiding spots for bed bugs.

Residents can also contribute to the sealing efforts by inspecting their own units for cracks and gaps. If they identify any areas that need attention, they should promptly report them to building management to ensure they are properly sealed.

Regular maintenance and periodic re-inspections are essential to ensure that sealants remain intact and effective. Over time, cracks may reappear or sealants may deteriorate, creating new opportunities for bed bugs to infiltrate the building.

By sealing cracks and crevices, apartment buildings create a more inhospitable environment for bed bugs, making it harder for them to establish infestations and limiting their ability to spread from one unit to another. This preventive measure, combined with other strategies, plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings and maintaining a pest-free living environment for residents.

• Educating Tenants and Staff

Education is a powerful tool in preventing the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings. By providing comprehensive education and training to both tenants and staff, building management can empower everyone within the building to recognize the signs of bed bug infestations, understand how they spread, and take proactive measures to prevent their introduction and spread.

Tenant education is essential in creating a proactive and vigilant community. Building management should provide educational materials, such as brochures or handouts, that highlight the signs of bed bugs, their behavior, and prevention strategies. These materials can be distributed during lease signings, posted in common areas, or made available online for easy access.

Tenant education should cover topics such as:

• The identification of bed bugs, their eggs, and signs of infestation.
• How bed bugs spread and their ability to move between units.
• Preventive measures, such as inspecting secondhand furniture, regularly vacuuming, and practicing good hygiene.
• Proper reporting procedures for suspected infestations.
• Responsibilities and expectations of tenants in maintaining a bed bug-free living environment.

In addition to educating the tenants, it is equally important to provide education and training to building staff. Property managers, maintenance personnel, and other staff members should receive training on bed bug detection, reporting procedures, and appropriate actions to take when an infestation is suspected. This ensures that the staff can accurately identify signs of bed bug activity and respond swiftly and appropriately.

Building management should also keep staff members updated on the latest bed bug prevention techniques and treatment methods. This ongoing education equips staff with the necessary knowledge to effectively address bed bug issues, minimize their spread, and coordinate efforts with tenants.

Regular meetings, workshops, or training sessions can be conducted to reinforce the education and provide opportunities for tenants and staff to ask questions or share experiences related to bed bugs. Open communication channels should be established, allowing residents to report suspected infestations, ask for guidance, and receive prompt assistance.

With a well-informed community, tenants are more likely to take preventive actions, promptly report suspected infestations, and collaborate with building management to address bed bug issues. Residents who are equipped with accurate knowledge are less likely to inadvertently spread bed bugs or delay necessary treatments.

By investing in tenant and staff education, apartment buildings can foster a proactive mindset, creating a united front against bed bugs. This educational approach not only prevents the spread of bed bugs but also promotes a healthier and safer living environment for everyone within the building.

Read more : How Do People Get Bed Bugs

• Collaboration and Communication among Residents

Collaboration and communication among residents are pivotal in preventing the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings. When residents work together as a community, they can collectively take proactive measures, share information, and support one another in addressing bed bug issues effectively.

Open communication channels should be established within the building to encourage residents to report suspected bed bug infestations promptly. Building management should provide clear instructions on how and where to report any signs of bed bugs, ensuring that residents understand the importance of early intervention.

Residents should be encouraged to share their experiences and insights related to bed bugs. This can be done through building-wide meetings, community forums, or online platforms where residents can exchange information, tips, and advice. These platforms can prove invaluable, as experiences shared by others can help identify potential infestation sources and prevention strategies.

Collaboration is especially crucial when addressing bed bug infestations that may have originated from one unit and spread to others. When residents are aware of their responsibility to report suspected infestations, they can play an active role in preventing the further spread of bed bugs throughout the building.

Residents should also support one another by adhering to bed bug prevention measures. For example, if a neighbor reports a suspected infestation, neighboring residents should take proactive measures, such as conducting inspections, vacuuming regularly, and minimizing clutter, to reduce the risk of bed bugs spreading into their units.

Sharing preventive measures and best practices can be particularly helpful in ensuring that all residents are equipped with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves and their units from these pests. For instance, residents can discuss the importance of inspecting secondhand furniture, tips for preventing bed bugs during travel, or effective cleaning techniques to eradicate any potential infestations.

Building management should actively promote collaboration and communication among residents through various means, such as newsletters, community bulletin boards, or regular meetings. By fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility, residents are more likely to actively participate in bed bug prevention and control efforts.

Collaboration and communication enable residents to take a proactive and unified approach in the fight against bed bugs. By working together, they can support each other, share valuable information, and implement preventive measures, ultimately minimizing the spread of bed bugs within the apartment building.

• Treatment and Extermination of Bed Bugs in Apartment Buildings

When bed bugs infest an apartment building, it is crucial to implement effective treatment and extermination methods to eradicate these pests. Timely and thorough treatment is essential to prevent the further spread of bed bugs and provide residents with a pest-free environment.

Professional pest control companies should be consulted for comprehensive treatment plans tailored to the specific needs of the apartment building. Here are some key considerations for the treatment and extermination of bed bugs:

• Inspection and Assessment: Prior to treatment, a thorough inspection should be conducted by pest control professionals to determine the extent and location of the infestation. This helps in developing a targeted treatment plan.
• Chemical Treatment: Chemical treatments, such as insecticide sprays, are commonly used to eliminate bed bugs. Pest control professionals will apply appropriate insecticides to infested areas, including beds, furniture, cracks, and other hiding spots. Non-chemical treatments, such as heat or steam treatments, may also be employed depending on the situation and preferences.
• Comprehensive Treatment: It is essential to treat all infested units simultaneously to avoid the migration of bed bugs from treated to untreated areas. Coordinating with residents and ensuring their cooperation is vital to the success of the treatment process.
• Follow-up Inspections and Treatments: Regular follow-up inspections should be conducted to monitor the effectiveness of the treatments and identify any potential re-infestations. Additional treatments may be necessary to address lingering bed bugs or newly discovered infestations.
• Collaboration with Residents: Residents play a crucial role in the treatment process. They should closely follow the instructions provided by the pest control professionals, such as preparing their units and laundering infested clothing and bedding. Ongoing communication with residents, addressing their concerns, and providing support are key to ensuring their cooperation during the treatment and extermination process.
• Preventive Measures: After the completion of the treatment, residents should continue practicing preventive measures to reduce the risk of future infestations. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and adherence to recommended preventive practices can help maintain a bed bug-free environment.

It is important to note that successful treatment and extermination of bed bugs in an apartment building may require multiple treatments over a period of time. This is due to the resilient nature of bed bugs and the possibility of hidden infestations that may not be apparent initially.

Building management should work closely with pest control professionals to create a long-term plan that includes regular inspections, ongoing monitoring, and preventive measures to prevent the re-infestation of bed bugs in the future.

By implementing comprehensive and coordinated treatment strategies, involving residents, and maintaining open communication with pest control professionals, apartment buildings can successfully eliminate bed bug infestations, minimize their spread, and create a comfortable living environment for all residents.

Bed bug infestations can be a major nuisance in apartment buildings, but with proper prevention, education, and proactive measures, it is possible to prevent their spread and maintain a pest-free environment for residents. Understanding the factors that contribute to the spread of bed bugs, such as lack of awareness, infested furniture, cracks and crevices, shared laundry facilities, and visitors and neighbors, is crucial in developing effective prevention strategies.

Preventing the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings requires a collective effort from building management, residents, and pest control professionals. Regular inspections and monitoring, proper disposal of infested items, sealing cracks and crevices, educating tenants and staff, and fostering collaboration and communication among residents are key strategies in preventing infestations and minimizing the spread of bed bugs.

When bed bug infestations do occur, prompt and comprehensive treatment is essential. Professional pest control services should be consulted to assess the extent of the infestation and develop a tailored treatment plan. Collaboration with residents, follow-up inspections, and ongoing preventive measures are necessary to ensure successful eradication and prevent re-infestation.

By implementing these preventive measures and strategies, apartment buildings can create a safer and more comfortable living environment for their residents, free from the nuisance and frustration caused by bed bug infestations. Ongoing education, strong communication, and collaboration among all stakeholders are critical in combating bed bug infestations and maintaining the wellbeing of the community.

Remember, preventing the spread of bed bugs in apartment buildings is a continuous effort that requires vigilance, cooperation, and a proactive approach. With a united front and a commitment to bed bug prevention, residents can enjoy a peaceful and pest-free living environment in their apartment building.

• Frequently Asked Questions about How Do Bed Bugs Spread In An Apartment Building

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Lifestylogy

15 Ways Bed Bugs Can Find Their Way Into Your Home

Posted: April 12, 2024 | Last updated: April 12, 2024

Bed bugs, the tiny pests that have coexisted with humans for thousands of years, are notorious for their stealthy way of life and their ability to spread rapidly from one place to another. Despite their small size, bed bugs can cause a significant amount of stress and discomfort, making it crucial to understand how they enter our homes. This guide uncovers the various pathways bed bugs use to invade our personal spaces, from the luggage of travelers to the pages of library books. Armed with this knowledge, we can take preventative measures to protect our homes from these unwelcome visitors.

Bed bugs are notorious hitchhikers, often coming home with you from hotels, hostels, or Airbnb stays. These pests can latch onto luggage, clothing, and personal belongings, finding a new home wherever these items are brought.

Second-hand Furniture

Acquiring furniture from thrift stores, garage sales, or online marketplaces can inadvertently introduce bed bugs into your home. These insects can hide in the crevices of sofas, beds, and dressers, waiting to emerge in their new environment.

Public Transportation

Public buses, trains, and taxis can be hotspots for bed bugs, which may attach themselves to your clothes or bags. The frequent turnover of passengers allows these pests to spread from personal belongings to public seats and back.

Guests may unknowingly bring bed bugs into your home through their clothing or bags. Bed bugs can travel from infested environments, seeking new hosts wherever people gather and stay.

Shared Laundry Facilities

Using communal laundry facilities can pose a risk, as bed bugs can transfer between items of clothing or hide in baskets and tables. These pests thrive in warm environments, making laundry areas an ideal breeding ground.

Schools and Dormitories

The high traffic and close quarters of schools and dormitories offer perfect conditions for bed bug spread. These pests can move through backpacks, clothing, and shared furniture, finding new hosts with ease.

Office buildings, especially those with shared spaces and high employee turnover, can facilitate the spread of bed bugs. They hitch a ride on personal belongings, spreading throughout the office and eventually into homes.

Borrowing books and other materials from libraries can inadvertently introduce bed bugs into your home. These pests can hide in the bindings and pages, waiting to be transported to a new environment.

Movie Theaters

The plush seats and high turnover of movie theaters make them a common source for bed bug infestations. These pests can latch onto clothing and bags, finding a new home in the cozy corners of your living room.

Hospital and Nursing Home Visits

Medical facilities, including hospitals and nursing homes, can harbor bed bugs due to the high volume of people and the presence of beds and upholstered furniture. Bringing these pests home can be as easy as placing a bag on an infested chair.

Gyms and Locker Rooms

The warm, humid environment of gyms and locker rooms, combined with the storage of personal items, provides an ideal breeding ground for bed bugs. They can travel home with you on clothing or in gym bags.

Moving Trucks

Renting moving trucks or using moving services can introduce bed bugs into your belongings, especially if the vehicle previously transported infested items. These pests can easily hide in boxes and furniture during the move.

Neighbor-to-Neighbor Transfer

In multi-unit buildings like apartments and condos, bed bugs can migrate from one unit to another through small cracks and crevices in walls, floors, and ceilings. They are attracted to warmth and carbon dioxide, which can lead them directly into adjacent homes.

Pet Bedding

While bed bugs prefer human hosts, they can also be found in pet bedding where pets rest and sleep. These pests can hitch a ride on your pet’s bedding when brought back from kennels, pet daycare, or even the vet, making their way into your home.

Delivery Packages

Bed bugs can infiltrate homes through boxes and packages. This is particularly true for items that have been stored in infested warehouses or transported in vehicles with bed bug problems. As packages make their way into your home, so can these unwelcome guests, hiding in the crevices of cardboard or within the items shipped.

In conclusion, the battle against bed bugs is a continuous one, demanding vigilance and proactive measures from all of us. By understanding the common entry points highlighted in this guide, you can significantly reduce the risk of unwittingly inviting these persistent pests into your home. Regular inspection of belongings, cautious handling of second-hand items, and maintaining cleanliness are key strategies in preventing bed bug infestations. Remember, awareness and prevention are your best tools in ensuring your living spaces remain bed bug-free.

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Can Bed Bugs Travel From Apartment To Apartment

Can bed bugs travel from apartment to apartment?

Bed bugs are small, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of warm-blooded animals. They are often found in beds and other sleeping areas, but can also live in other areas of a home, such as sofas, chairs, and curtains.

Bed bugs can travel between apartments, and even between different buildings, through cracks and crevices in walls and floors. They can also be carried on clothing, furniture, and other belongings.

If you think you may have a bed bug infestation, it is important to take action right away. Bed bugs can be difficult to get rid of, and can cause a lot of discomfort and distress.

For more information on bed bugs, please visit the following websites:

https://www.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/vector/bed-bugs.shtml

https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/bedbugs/

• 1 Can bed bugs travel through walls from one apartment to another?
• 2 How fast do bed bugs spread from apartment to apartment?
• 3 Can bed bugs come from neighbors apartment?
• 4 How do I protect my apartment from bed bugs?
• 5 Can bed bugs travel from upstairs apartment to downstairs apartment?
• 6 Can you have bed bugs in one room and not the other?
• 7 Do bed bugs travel up or down stairs?

Can bed bugs travel through walls from one apartment to another?

Bed bugs are small insects that feed on the blood of people and animals. They are most commonly found in the mattresses and bedding, but can also be found in other areas of the home, such as furniture, baseboards, and electrical outlets.

Bed bugs are not known to travel through walls from one apartment to another, but they can be carried from one place to another on people, clothing, or furniture.

If you think you may have a bed bug infestation, it is important to get professional help to identify and treat the problem.

How fast do bed bugs spread from apartment to apartment?

Bed bugs are known for their ability to spread quickly from one apartment to another. If one unit in a multi-unit building is infested with bed bugs, it is only a matter of time before they spread to other units.

There are a number of reasons why bed bugs are so good at spreading from one apartment to another. For one, they are very good at hiding. They can live in tiny crevices in walls, floors, and furniture, and they are good at staying out of sight. They also reproduce very quickly, so a small population can rapidly become a large one.

Another reason why bed bugs are so good at spreading is that they can be transported from one apartment to another on people, clothes, bedding, furniture, and other objects. If an infested item is brought into an uninfested apartment, the bed bugs will quickly spread to that apartment.

Finally, bed bugs are very resilient and can survive for long periods of time without a blood meal. This means that they can remain dormant for long periods of time and still be able to spread to other apartments.

All of these factors make it very difficult to contain a bed bug infestation. Once they have spread to one apartment, it can be very difficult to get rid of them. The best way to prevent bed bugs from spreading is to be vigilant and to immediately report any signs of an infestation.

Can bed bugs come from neighbors apartment?

This is a common question that is asked by people who are worried that they may have bed bugs in their home. Unfortunately, the answer is that it is possible for bed bugs to come from neighboring apartments.

There are a few ways that this can happen. One way is if the neighboring apartment is infested with bed bugs and they are able to crawl over to your apartment. Another way is if the neighboring apartment is being treated for bed bugs and the bugs are escaping from the apartment and crawling over to your apartment.

If you are worried that you may have bed bugs, it is important to do a thorough inspection of your home. Look for signs of bed bugs, such as blood stains on the sheets, small black dots on the bedding, and eggshells. If you do find evidence of bed bugs, it is important to take action right away to get rid of them.

If you are unsure whether or not you have bed bugs, it is best to consult with a professional exterminator. They will be able to inspect your home and provide you with the best course of action to take.

How do I protect my apartment from bed bugs?

Bed bugs are small, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and other warm-blooded animals. They can be found in any environment where people or animals live, but are especially common in places like hotels and apartment buildings. If you are worried that you may have bed bugs in your home, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself and your belongings.

The first step is to inspect your apartment for bed bugs. Look for tiny, reddish-brown bugs that are about the size of a poppy seed. They can be difficult to spot, but if you are vigilant, you should be able to find them. You should also look for signs of bed bug activity, such as blood stains on the sheets or mattress, fecal spots, and eggs.

If you do find bed bugs in your apartment, you will need to take some steps to get rid of them. There are a number of commercially available pesticides that can be used to kill bed bugs, but it is important to read the label and follow the instructions carefully. You may also need to call in a professional exterminator to get rid of the bed bugs.

In addition to getting rid of the bed bugs, there are a few things you can do to prevent them from coming back. One of the most important things is to keep your apartment clean. Make sure to vacuum regularly and dispose of the vacuum bag immediately after use. You should also wash your bed sheets and pillowcases in hot water at least once a week.

If you are traveling, be sure to check for bed bugs in your hotel room before unpacking your bags. If you see any signs of bed bugs, ask to be moved to another room. You can also protect yourself by using a bed bug mattress cover. This is a thin, zippered cover that you can put over your mattress and box spring. It will help keep bed bugs from getting into your bed, and it can be washed and reused.

Finally, if you think you may have bed bugs, it is important to seek medical attention. Bed bug bites can sometimes become infected, so it is important to get them checked out by a doctor.

Can bed bugs travel from upstairs apartment to downstairs apartment?

Bed bugs are notorious for being able to travel between apartments, and they can do so through a variety of methods. They can crawl along walls and pipes, and they can also hitch a ride on clothing or furniture.

If you’re worried that bed bugs may be travelling from an upstairs apartment to a downstairs one, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself. First, make sure that you’re keeping your apartment clean and free of clutter. Bed bugs love to hide in clutter, so getting rid of unnecessary items can help to reduce the number of bugs in your home.

You can also seal any cracks or holes in your walls and floors, and you should make sure that your windows and doors are properly sealed as well. If you have any pet doors or other openings that allow access between your apartments, make sure to seal them up as well.

Finally, you can also use a bed bug spray or other insecticide to help reduce the number of bugs in your home. Be sure to read the instructions carefully and to follow all safety precautions.

If you’re experiencing a bed bug problem in your home, it’s important to take action right away. Bed bugs can be difficult to get rid of, but with a little bit of effort, you can get them under control.

Can you have bed bugs in one room and not the other?

Yes, it is possible to have bed bugs in one room and not the other. However, it is important to note that if one room in a house has bed bugs, the likelihood that the rest of the house will also have bed bugs is high.

Bed bugs are tiny, reddish-brown insects that feed on the blood of people and animals. They can be found anywhere in a house, but tend to prefer dark, warm places, such as mattresses, box springs, bed frames, and headboards.

If you think you may have bed bugs, it is important to get professional help. Bed bugs can be difficult to get rid of, and may require the use of pesticides.

Do bed bugs travel up or down stairs?

There is no definitive answer to this question as bed bugs can travel in a number of ways. However, they are more likely to travel up or down stairs if they are looking for a new place to live or to feed.

Bed bugs are known to be very efficient hitchhikers and can travel on clothing, furniture, and other objects. They can also move quickly and can cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time.

If there is a food source available, bed bugs will travel up or down stairs in order to get to it. They are attracted to blood, and will feed on any warm-blooded animal, including humans.

If you are concerned that bed bugs may be travelling up or down your stairs, there are a few things you can do to help prevent them from entering your home.

– Seal any cracks or openings in your home where bed bugs could enter.

– Keep your home clean and free of clutter.

– Inspect your belongings for bed bugs before bringing them into your home.

– If you find bed bugs, contact a professional for help.

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