Bed Bugs After a Flood or Fire: What to Do

Matthew Johnston

10 minutes ago

1 min read

After a flood or fire, life is messy. Many families stay in hotels or with relatives. Bed bugs can hitch a ride during that time. A few steps help.

Temporary housing, borrowed beds and moved belongings all raise the chance. It is nobody's fault.

Look at the mattress seams and headboard in a hotel or a relative's home. Keep bags off the bed.

Before you bring salvaged furniture and bedding back, check them. Wash and dry fabric items on hot when you can.

Rust-colored spots, shed skins and bites in a line. Look in the first few weeks after you move back.

A short visit can tell you if you have a problem. Early help is easier than waiting.

Can bed bugs come from restoration crews?

It is rare, but bags and equipment can carry them. Keep an eye out.

Should I throw away my mattress?

Not right away. Moving it can spread bed bugs. Call us first.

How long should I watch for signs?

A few weeks after you move back in is a good window.

Live in Wichita? See our Wichita bed bug control page. Live in Overland Park or Kansas City? See our Overland Park bed bug control page. Questions? Wichita: (316) 775-7867. Overland Park: (913) 222-2847. No contracts, just honest help.