How can I avoid bringing bedbugs home from a hospital? - briefly
Inspect clothing and luggage before departure, keep them sealed, and wash all garments on the hottest setting immediately. Request a visual inspection of the room and avoid placing personal items on the bed or furniture.
How can I avoid bringing bedbugs home from a hospital? - in detail
Bedbugs can hitch a ride on personal items and clothing, making it essential to treat a hospital visit as a potential source of infestation.
Before entering the facility, inspect any bags, coats, or shoes for signs of bugs or shed skins. Keep valuables in sealed plastic containers rather than placing them on chairs, tables, or the floor. If possible, wear clothing that can be laundered immediately after the appointment.
During the stay, store all belongings in zip‑lock bags or airtight pouches. Avoid laying personal items on beds, sofas, or countertops. Request fresh, sealed bedding if the room is not already prepared for infection control. Keep a disposable bag for any waste, such as tissues or disposable gloves.
After leaving, follow a strict decontamination routine:
- Remove clothing and place it directly into a washing machine.
- Use water at 60 °C (140 °F) or higher; dry on the hottest setting for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., shoes, backpacks) in airtight bags for a minimum of two weeks, a period that exceeds the bedbug life cycle.
- Vacuum suitcases, car seats, and any surfaces that may have contacted the hospital environment. Dispose of vacuum contents in a sealed bag.
- Inspect the home’s sleeping areas for small, rust‑colored spots, live insects, or shed exoskeletons.
If any evidence of infestation appears, isolate the affected area, reduce clutter, and contact a licensed pest‑management professional promptly.
Additional precautions include using disposable shoe covers when entering the hospital, limiting the number of personal items taken into the patient’s room, and maintaining a regular schedule of home inspections, especially after repeated visits. These measures collectively reduce the likelihood that bedbugs will be transferred from a medical setting to your residence.