Don't Let the Bed Bugs Bite!

Bed bugs can one of the worse disturbances you'll experience in your dorm. Because a dorm

mattress is used by so many people the possibly of infestation is even greater. Read more to find out how to look for bed bugs and in the worse situations, how to get rid of them!

CAUTION: Before you read this information I want to warn the people who are like me. When I read information on any kind of bug I over analyse things; I don't want people to do the same. Use evidence you find but don't dwell on small possibles when signs point to no infestation.

Reading this may also make you itchy, I assure you, this is normal.

How and When Should I inspect for Bed Bugs?

Learning how to inspect for bed bugs is important when you use someone's mattress whether if it's in a hotel or a in dorm. To inspect for the bugs look at the top and bottom of your mattress. Are there any black dots (resembling permanent marker marks) or tiny shells? After that look at seams of the mattress as well as around the mattress in headboards or nightstands. In dorm rooms to play it safe, buy yourself a bed bug mattress protector.

What do bed bug bites look like?

It's scary to say, but not all bed bug bites look the same. The main indicators of having bed bug bites involve a series of bites in the same area. The number of bites a night usually range from

3-5 bites that are within a line or pattern, like seen above. Almost always these bites really itch

worse than other bug bites (not including fleas). When itched these bites can become enlarged welts. Unlike other bug bites, many if not all people never experience the pain of being bitten. If you have these signs, keep track of new bites and their patterns. If they continue inspect for the bugs and or seek a school nurse or doctor to clarify what the bite marks are likely to be.

What Else Could it Be?

Above is a picture of ingrown hairs. Bug bites can sometime look similar to many things. The best thing to do is to keep track or bites and inspect your mattress and around you mattress just in case.

I have Bed Bugs! Now What?

Start off by washing all you bedding and clothes with hot water. Drying on high heat even for 15 minutes will help as well.

Equip you mattress and box spring with bed bug protectors. If there are signs of bed bugs in the walls, spray in those spots and move the bed. Sprays can usually kill the bugs but not always, vacuuming them up will be more effective. If all else fails get an exterminator.

If you find them in your dorm room talk to an RA right away!