Will a Mattress Protector Prevent Bed Bugs?
Homeowners, afraid of getting bed bugs, seek easy ways to prevent infestations. Most people often rely on mattress protectors. Hotel managers also purchase expensive protectors, thinking it will help them avoid spending money and time on more complex solutions.
But the truth is, this method isn’t the most effective one. This article explains the basics behind the bed bug versus mattress protector issue.
How mattress protectors work
Multiple brands specialize in creating bed mattress protectors that aim to prevent insect infestations. However, most products work on a fundamental principle. They surround the mattress creating a barrier impossible for the insect to trespass. This way, insects that already live in the bed can’t escape, and new ones can’t make it inside.
Most products in this category are made from rough cotton and sealed with sturdy mechanisms. The market is packed with products that offer mattress-only protection, but some items encase the box spring as well.
Do mattress protectors work?
Mattress protectors work against bed bugs only to a certain degree. So home or hotel owners who wish to prevent bed bugs for good can’t do so only by getting a protector for their mattress.
Although they are called “bed” bugs, these insects don’t only live in beds. Once they become visible in bed, chances are, they have also spread on other furniture and rooms.
In short, a bed mattress protector doesn’t prevent bed bugs, at least not in a way that can help homeowners. Furthermore, even the partial protection that mattress protectors offer to prevent bed bug bites isn’t 100% safe because the pest can always find their victim from other places in the room.
The purpose of a protector is to have the insects already stuck in the mattress slowly die, but this doesn’t stop new bugs from infesting other parts of the room or building.
What is the best solution against bed bugs?
Given the only partial protection offered by mattress protectors, readers may wonder about more effective ways to prevent bed bugs.
The best method for keeping bed bugs from infesting a place is to reduce clutter in the home or space where bed bugs could hide. Other solutions include regular vacuuming, taking extra care if using a shared laundry facility, and double-checking second-hand furniture pieces before setting them up inside.
Bed bug prevention is key
Bed bugs are a significant nuisance for any homeowner or commercial space owner. For this reason, prevention is critical. However, mattress protectors won’t be of much help once the infestation occurs. Hiring professional local pest control services is the go-to solution if bed bugs have already infested a living space.
Bed Bugs Arizona offers a free, in-home bed bug inspection and a one-year warranty on all bed bug services. No obligation. We specialize in apartment communities. Our fast, certified technicians provide the Bed Bug Pro-Treat Plus method of bed bug removal to Phoenix and surrounding cities in a 100-mile-plus radius, including Flagstaff, Globe, and Casa Grande. Veteran and senior discounts. Call now at (623) 451-0541.