Bed Bugs in a Dorm or College Move-In: What to Know

Matthew Johnston

10 minutes ago

2 min read

A dorm room is a shared space with lots of luggage coming and going. Bed bugs can ride along. A few easy habits help students and parents rest easy.

Before you unpack, look at the mattress seams, the bed frame and the headboard. Use a phone flashlight. It only takes a few minutes.

Set bags and coats on a hard surface, not on the bed or couch. A plastic bin with a lid works well for clothes.

Free couches and thrift finds are a common way for bed bugs to move in. Check them well before you bring them home.

Look for tiny rust-colored spots on sheets, shed skins and bites in a line. Bites alone do not prove anything.

Wash and dry clothes on hot before you pack them. Do not carry stuff from a room that may have bugs into the family home.

Do dorms have bed bugs?

Any shared housing can. It is not about being dirty. It is about lots of people and luggage.

Should a student tell the school?

Yes. Tell the housing office right away with photos so they can respond.

What if my student brings some home?

Stay calm. Keep their bags in one spot and call us for an honest check.

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.