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Expert: How to check for and prevent bed bugs

Posted at 6:21 AM, Oct 19, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-19 15:46:02-04

With more people traveling, the holidays are an easy time to pick up bed bugs.

Owner of Arizona Heat Pest Services Sterling Miller says when traveling, it’s important to check hotel rooms for bed bugs.

RELATED: Woman says she was bitten by bed bugs at Valley movie theater

The bugs themselves are typically the size of a ladybug. Check for small black (peppered) stains on bedding, bed frames, and closely examine cracks and seams. 

Also, use a luggage rack to set your suitcase on — not the ground.

When you get home, Miller says to be careful where you unpack, especially if you’re worried about the hotel you stayed at.

“What you don’t want to do is grab your suitcase and put it on your bed when you get home and let those bed bugs get into your home,” said Miller. 

If you do have bed bugs, Miller says it's important to contact a professional immediately -- pesticides won't kill the bed bugs and eggs.

For a full list of preventing bed bugs, click here