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Prevention
By Mayo Clinic staffPreventing bites
- Cover up. Because bedbugs don't tend to burrow under clothing, you may be able to avoid bites by wearing pajamas that cover as much skin as possible.
- Bug spray. Insect repellents designed to protect against mosquitos or ticks aren't very effective against bedbugs.
- Mosquito netting. Some studies indicate that bed nets impregnated with the pesticide permethrin may help protect sleepers against bedbug bites. However, this practice may be helping bedbugs develop resistance to this pesticide.
Preventing infestations
- Secondhand items. Inspect used mattresses or upholstered furniture carefully before bringing them into your home.
- Hotel precautions. Check mattress seams for bedbug excrement and place your luggage on tables or dressers instead of on the floor.
- Birds and bats. Eliminate any neighboring bird and bat habitats that may serve as a refuge for bedbugs, especially following an extermination attempt.
References
- Goddard J, et al. Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) and clinical consequences of their bites. Journal of the American Medical Association. 2009;13:1398.
- Potter ME. Bed bugs. Cooperative Extension Service, University of Kentucky College of Agriculture. http://www.ca.uky.edu/entomology/entfacts/entfactpdf/ef636.pdf. Accessed Oct. 20, 2009.
- DDT ban takes effect. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. http://www.epa.gov/history/topics/ddt/01.htm. Accessed Oct. 20, 2009.
- Elston DM, et al. Bedbugs. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Oct. 20, 2009.
- Kells SA, et al. Prevention and control of bed bugs in residences: Information for homeowners and tenants. University of Minnesota Extension Service. http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/housingandclothing/components/DK1022.pdf. Accessed Oct. 21, 2009.
