Don't Let The Bedbugs Bite

Why is it that whenever you are packing for a trip or planning one, the newspaper or television is doing a story on bedbugs?  Just the sight or mere mention of them can make you want to abandon your plans for a staycation.  At least you know that your home doesn't have the pests hiding somewhere.  Well, don't.  Travel is the perfect way to refresh, rejuvenate, and find inspiration for your writing.

A few practical, common sense suggestions can help make your stay at a hotel or vacation rental more pleasant.  First off, before booking, do your research.  A little surfing on the net will let you know whether a hotel has had any complaints regarding bedbugs and if worse comes to worse, ask.  If there is a long pause on the other end, you have your answer.

Upon arriving, check the pad and mattress for the tell tale blood spots.  If you see those, you can request another room, though I would probably leave despite the objections of my other half.  Another point to remember is to keep all suitcases and bags off of the floor and way from walls.  Also, avoid unpacking your clothes into the drawers.  Keep them in your bags and keep the bags closed until you need something.  Store dirty items in plastic bags you can seal.  Those huge Ziploc bags are great!

Finally, when you arrive home wash everything regardless of whether it was worn or not and this includes your children's plush toys.  The heat of the dryer kills most things.  If you stayed at a rental where you needed to bring your own towels and linens, make sure you wash and dry those as well.  Don't forget to vacuum out those suitcases and bags before bringing them in the house.  This is definitely the worst part of returning home, but it's a step that could possible save you some major pain later on.

Bed Bath and Beyond makes a bedbug spray and they recommend spraying it around the bed as well as the dressers and closets.  It is non-toxic since it is made from all natural materials.  Don't know if it works, but it smells nice and offers some piece of mind.

Don't let anxiety or fear keep you from enjoying all the wonderful sites the world has to offer.  I know I won't.  My spray is already packed.