While bed bugs can be a year-round problem, they’re more prevalent in the summer. Between the warm weather and increased travel, you’re more likely to run into pests this time of year. Whether you’re the one traveling or renting out the rooms, there are ways to help prevent an infestation. If you’re faced with one, it’s important to learn about proper bed bug mattress removal.

Identifying a Bed Bug Infestation

Finding bed bugs in your mattress can be a nightmare, especially if your business relies on clean rooms. Not only can these pests cause uncomfortable health issues, but they’re costly to remove. Here’s how to determine if your mattress is infested with bed bugs:

1. You’re getting bit. Small, itchy, red bumps appear on your skin in a line or cluster.
2. Your bedding is stained. Tiny dark spots appear your sheets, mattress, or box spring. This could either be blood stains or bug feces.
3. You see evidence of the bug. You may either notice small, brownish insects hiding in the seams and crevices of your mattress. Or you’ll see the shells of their shed exoskeletons they leave behind as they grow.

Any of these signs should trigger a call to a pest control company to confirm an infestation. Once confirmed, it’s crucial to treat the situation properly to prevent spreading the infestation.

Preventing Bed Bug Infestations

It’s easier to prevent future pest problems than deal with the itchy consequences. Here are some measures to take to try and keep bed bugs out.

1. Carefully inspect any second-hand furniture or mattresses before bringing them into your home.
2. Invest in bed bug-proof encasements for your new mattress and box spring.
3. Regularly clean and declutter your home, paying special attention to areas around your bed.
4. Stay vigilant when you travel and inspect beds for signs before you sleep in them. Also keep an eye on your luggage for any stowaways.

If you’re in charge of rental properties, it’s also your responsibility to ensure your guests have a clean and safe place to stay. You’re sure to run into bad reviews and a loss of customers if they have to share a space with bed bugs. Stay on top of thoroughly cleaning bedding, mattresses, and furniture, especially during the high tourist season.

Prepare for Bed Bug Mattress Removal

Getting rid of an infested mattress the right way is not as easy as tossing it on the curb. Some local waste management companies don’t even pick up mattresses in any condition. Others have specific guidelines and designated pick-up days. To help ensure the bugs don’t spread throughout your home or rental, take these steps promptly after identifying the issue.

1. Seal the infected mattress in a bed bug-proof encasement or a large plastic bag to trap any remaining bugs inside.
2. Clearly label the mattress as “Bed Bug Infested” to warn others and prevent anyone from taking it for reuse.
3. Lift and carry the mattress out of the house instead of dragging it to prevent tearing the bag.
4. Thoroughly clean the area. Wash and dry the bedding in high heat. Vacuum the bed frame, floors, curtains, and any nearby furniture. Immediately after cleaning, dispose of what was vacuumed in a sealed plastic bag.

Keep an eye out for signs of additional bugs in the immediate area as well as other areas of the home. Bed bugs are known to travel from room to room, hide in crevices, and wait in any area people and pets gather.

Call JDog Junk Removal & Hauling for Bed Bug Mattress Removal

Whether you’re getting rid of an old, infested mattress or a relatively new one, JDog can help. We take a variety of mattresses and accessories and provide commercial mattress removals from a number of facilities. Let us know ahead of time if your mattress has been infested with bed bugs. We’ll provide a quote and arrive on time for the scheduled pick-up appointment. Then all you have to do is point us in the right direction of the mattress and we’ll take it from there.