How to Protect Yourself from Bed Bugs | eHow

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Many of us may have grown up hearing the expression, "sleep tight, don't let the bed bugs bite." While this old expression was given with only good thoughts, there is nothing good about bed bugs.

These nasty pests are back making a resurgence and they show no prejudice. Bed bugs can be found anywhere from the humblest dwelling to some of the nicest hotels. Learn how to protect yourself from bed bugs at home and while traveling.

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM BED BUGS AT HOME - Check at home for bed bugs. If you've ever woken with itchy, red bumps that resemble mosquito bites or noticed tiny dark brown, black or even red spots on your bedding, you should check for bed bugs.

Strip the bedding from the bed and take a good look near all mattress edging seams and the box springs (including under the bed). Check behind those plastic corner protectors on your mattress and pay close attention to the headboard and bed frame. Look closely as bed bugs are tiny, flat and brown without wings; they look similar to a tick.

If you do suspect bed bugs, either call in a professional pest control person or tackle the job yourself. Don't start cleaning if you want to hire a professional as they'll need to know exactly how bad the infestation, or if you actually do have bed bugs.

GET RID OF BED BUGS - Wash all bedding in HOT water and dry on high heat. Remove bed pillows and the dust cover from underneath the box springs. Place pillows and dust cover in heavy duty plastic garbage bags and throw away.

Take mattress and box springs outside if the weather is nice. Steam and vacuum clean every section on the mattress and box springs. Let set in sun to dry well.

Vacuum headboard, footboard and/or metal bed frame. Fill a bucket with hot water and Murphy's Wood Oil soap and wipe down entire bed frame, headboard and footboard.

Vacuum and clean bedroom well, including vacuuming walls if they are wallpapered and also any draperies in the bedroom.

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How to Protect Yourself from Bed Bugs | eHow