http://bedbugger.com/forum/ Bed bug support forums en Mon, 22 Mar 2010 08:39:10 +0000 http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-not-to-spread#post-62857 Sun, 22 Nov 2009 14:25:35 +0000 noway 62857@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>My husband and have been battling mystery bites since late September. We haven't had any evidence of bed bugs, but based on the appearance, timing, location. etc we think it might be bed bugs. I have the daily routine of laundry, vacuuming, cleaning, etc, blah ,blah, blah, My husband has a friend that he visits several times a week. His friend doesn't drive, so he takes him on errands. We just found out that the friend's apartment, beside fleas and roaches, probably has bed bugs. What precautions does my husband need to take to prevent reinfesting us again? If he stays out of the apartment, is it enough to just spray down his car with Bedlam or some such product? Should he immediately isolate his clothes and shoes in our garage before entering the house? Thanks for any advice. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/three-months-10-treatments-no-success-help#post-69638 Sat, 20 Mar 2010 17:12:08 +0000 FreetoSleep 69638@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hello, </p> <p>I've spent a lot of time searching these forums for answers and thought you all might be able to help. </p> <p>In December, my roommate and I went home for the Christmas holidays. When we returned, we found a bed bug infestation! We cleaned, steamed everything, threw her mattress out (mine is an air mattress), washed everything and sealed all the cloth in airtight bags. We spoke with out supers, who REFUSED TO PAY FOR THE TREATMENT. We shelled out $330 Canadian for a treatment and a three month guarantee. </p> <p>My room mate has since moved out and I am left to battle this alone. The treatments have reduced the amount of bugs, but they seem to be returning! I have terrible bites that have lasted weeks. I'm on my last week of the guarantee and can't afford another three months, as I'm a student paying for the apartment by myself. </p> <p>Is there anything I can do? It seems that this is not an effective treatment and I'd like to self treat, but don't know where to start. There are so few bugs now that the traps aren't catching any and the PCO is starting to think I'm crazy, but I'm covered in three meal bites! Can anyone offer suggestions that are cheap and effective to kill off the last few? </p> <p>Thanks! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/toddlers-guardrail-remove-or-not-remove#post-69625 Sat, 20 Mar 2010 08:02:06 +0000 mongrels 69625@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Myself and my 2yr old are still getting bitten after 2nd treatment. I brought the bb's in when I moved even though I inspected EVERYTHING, steamed, wiped rubbing alcohol over most items and a used a heat gun, all clothing was washed or dried on hot and bagged. The majority of my belongings were not even brought in they are being stored. It beats me, I'm pretty sure I saw some bb nymphs crawling on our shoes which I promptly and stupidly killed at the time in an act of shock and horror. I should have bagged them to show everyone who thinks I'm nuts.</p> <p>Awaiting a call back from pco however, was wondering if anyone had any advice about what to do about my daughters guardrail? The fabric cover on it seems an ideal hiding spot. Also, it can't be vacuumed properly and I'm sure the pesticide did not get into it entirely. I can't replace with a timber one as they don't fit the metal bed. I'm not sure about removing it altogether because the baby is only just learning to sleep in the single bed and it's quite a drop to the floor so there needs to be some protection from falling. Thought of putting a crash pad (mattress or quilt) on the floor but that would only serve as another harbourage and would be ANOTHER item to be laundered/cleaned/checked daily. Should I put her mattress on the floor or will she be eaten alive because she will be so accessible to the bugs?</p> <p>I am using the dryer SO much as it is I doubt I will be able to afford the electricity bill since my rent is expensive and am living on a single income. Maybe I should start sleeping her in my bed with me? At this stage I'm pretty sure the bb's are in both rooms. My pco does not seem to know much and can't give me a straight answer about anything. I think the bb epidemic is relatively new in Australia and our recent summer was incredibly humid which did not help at all. People here are very ignorant about bb's or they are sick of listening to me to talk about it. I can see how it seems like I'm losing my mind. Also, can a packtite be shipped here if I purchase it from the US? I don't care about my stuff but I'm hoping to salvage all my child's toys and books once this hell is over. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/my-room-is-infested-where-do-i-start#post-69607 Fri, 19 Mar 2010 19:29:08 +0000 dontknowwhattodo 69607@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I'm only a teenager, and only my room is infested with bedbugs since January. I've been sleeping on the couch for 2 months and haven't been bit. My mom is skeptical, and thinks it's only because I have a messy room. This Spring Break, I have to start cleaning out my room. </p> <p>MY MASTER PLAN:<br /> 1) get rid of wooden desk<br /> 2) get rid of wooden bedframe and buy a metal one<br /> 3) buy mattress and pillow bedbug protectors<br /> 4) vaccum the entire floor<br /> 5) clean and wash entire closet<br /> 6) get rid of clutter &#38; inspect all items<br /> 7) Lysol? (mom)</p> <p>QUESTIONS:<br /> 1) How do i convince my mom I have bed bugs and Lysol will not work? she's cheap &#38; won't buy incesticides<br /> 2) How do I make sure bed bugs will be gone 100%?<br /> 3) What measure should I take to get rid of these evil creatures?</p> <p>I'm scared to get bit while I'm cleaning!! I still have scars from my bites 2 months ago. I don't think I can sleep peacefully knowing something is after my blood. :( </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/packtite-availability-in-the-uk#post-68533 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 12:25:35 +0000 Creeper 68533@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I've read somewhere here that Packtites are not yet allowed in the UK because of the different electricity regulations or something. Has that changed yet, and if not, is there any likelihhod of them being available in the near future? I've only just hit this problem, and so it's early days, but I am going to pieces at the thought of losing all my books art and beautiful things. At the very least finding somewhere to store them for 18 months as quarantine is going to be a hole in my life. Is there any hope? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/a-good-bed-bug-sucking-vacuum#post-68531 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 06:21:44 +0000 ThisIsWar 68531@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Also, does anyone have any advice on a specific model or brand of vacuum to buy that is affordable, easy to clean, and has extra strength sucking power? What about a vacuum that has a built in steaming capability? </p> <p>Bed bugs must be some kind of sick, sick, sick joke. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/a-list-of-resources-for-bedbuggers-in-chicago#post-65591 Fri, 08 Jan 2010 17:53:03 +0000 wchicago 65591@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>hi guys</p> <p>this post is for future chicagoans who search on the site. and please, other windy city denizens -update and add to this list!! its a list of all the stuff i wish i had known when i first got the wee beasties and was cycling between panic, exhaustion, and confusion. this board rocks for supporting the panic. the exhaustion will subside once you start sleeping again (and you will). i offer this for the confusion. . .</p> <p>WHO SPECIALIZES IN BED BUG TREATMENT IN CHICAGO?</p> <p>There are many PCOs in Chicago, and I'm sure there are many that are great at bed bug control, so don't take these as recommendations, just information. That said, two firms that have specialized bed bug teams (that i know of) are<br /> A ALERT<br /> <a href="http://www.bedbugcentral.com/bedbugfree/profile.cfm?id=69" rel="nofollow">http://www.bedbugcentral.com/bedbugfree/profile.cfm?id=69</a></p> <p>SMITHEREEN<br /> <a href="http://www.smithereen.com/site/epage/37524_596.htm" rel="nofollow">http://www.smithereen.com/site/epage/37524_596.htm</a></p> <p>As a bonus, SMITHEREEN has just begun offering thermal using TEMP AIRE equipment.<br /> Always check the FAQ on "Choosing a PCO" before interviewing anybody, and please current or future chicagoans, add to the PCO list if you know of other Chicago area PCOs with bed bug teams</p> <p>ARE CANINE BED BUG INSPECTIONS AVAILABLE IN CHICAGO?</p> <p>Why yes they are.</p> <p>Doug Summers says this team also follows up with visual confirmation from the handlers.<br /> <a href="http://www.canineinspection.com/index.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.canineinspection.com/index.html</a></p> <p>I personally used this team (Scooby and Linda), who were both nice as pie and seemed accurate, but did not do visual confirmation. just fyi.<br /> <a href="http://www.bedbuginspectors.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.bedbuginspectors.com/</a></p> <p>WHERE DO I GET DRY ICE IN CHICAGO IF I WANT TO MAKE A DIY BEDBUG MONITOR?</p> <p>Surprisingly, there aren't a whole lot of places in Chicago who sell dry ice. However, I've used it in cooking (never for bed bug monitoring, but dry ice is dry ice) and I've gotten it here. </p> <p>Polar Ice Co Inc<br /> (866) 969-1815<br /> 2308 W 21st Pl, Chicago, IL 60608</p> <p>WHO SELLS DRY VAPOR STEAMERS?</p> <p>This one is a pain. NO ONE sells them in Chicago -there are some vacuum and allergy shops at which you can order them and pick them up upon delivery to the shop, but really then you might as well get one online from the links here under "useful stuff" as delivery time will be the same.</p> <p>WHO RENTS DRY VAPOR STEAMERS?</p> <p>Clark-Devon hardware rents the white wing steamer. They are located &lt;duh&gt; at the corner of Clark and Devon on the north side.</p> <p>WHO SELLS STERIFAB? DE? DDVP STRIPS? etc</p> <p>Clark-Devon is the only place i found in the city who sells Sterifab in quantities less than a case. Fresh water DE and the appropriate bellows dusters you can get at Clark Devon or Gethsemane (also on Clark, in Andersonville, at Clark and Ridge). Hot Shot No Pest DDVP strips are carried at Home Depot, as are XL and XXL ziplock bags, 2 mm clear contractor bags, every type of caulk known to man, and the respirators you will need if you use DE. I love Home Depot. Btw, the Home Depot on North Avenue is open until midnight, you aren't really sleeping anyway, might as well go get supplies.</p> <p>ITS LIKE A JILLION DEGREES BELOW ZERO, WHY CAN'T I JUST LEAVE STUFF OUTSIDE FOR THE WINTER?</p> <p>Because you can't. Well, you CAN, but it might not kill all the bugs. Read the FAQ on cold. I know it seems wrong that we have to suffer through Chicago winter with no bed bug benefits, but there you have it, life is just unfair sometimes.</p> <p>Again other chicagoans, please add to this list -and at risk of starting a rumble in my hometown, i'll add one more. . . ;)</p> <p>WHO HAS THE BEST PIZZA IN CHICAGO?</p> <p>Spacca Napoli i know, i know, Great Lake Pizza was named best in the country, but I've eaten many a fine pizza at both places and those who crowned Great Lake as better simply got deliriously hungry form waiting in that long line and got it wrong. Great Lake ROCKS, but trust me, Spacca Napoli is where its at IF you can order the special burrata pizza (they only have it when they can get burrata flown in from italy, so call ahead and see if its available). If its summer and the patio is open for outdoor seating AND they have the burrata pizza, well then I'm sure I'll see you there :) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/linenspa-mattress-encasement#post-69568 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:54:25 +0000 jknyc 69568@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Has anyone ever used this mattress encasement or heard anything about it before?<a href="http://www.amazon.com/LinenSpa-PREMIUM-Universal-Mattress-Protector/dp/B0035E63WM/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&#38;s=home-garden&#38;qid=1268944284&#38;sr=8-6">http://www.amazon.com/LinenSpa-PREMIUM-Universal-Mattress-Protector/dp/B0035E63WM/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&#38;s=home-garden&#38;qid=1268944284&#38;sr=8-6</a></p> <p>Next week I am having my 1st treatment for bed bugs in my apartment and I'm lucky in that my building management takes care of all the costs for the PCO, however, I really want to invest in the encasements for both the mattress and box spring just to be safe for any future problems. I've looked at the better known brands (Protect-A-Bed, etc), but they're pretty expensive. I found this 1 on Amazon with 2 great reviews, but wanted to check if anyone here has used it before. The price is a lot more affordable and between having to purchase these covers and the cost of all the laundry I will be doing in the next few weeks, it's going to start adding up pretty fast! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/thermal-imaging-camera-test-results#post-69484 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:59:33 +0000 actionwdi 69484@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>With all the talk about K9 inspections and the need for visual follow up I wondered if the use of a Thermal Imaging Camera would be benefical. Well unfortunately Thermal imaging is not the answer as we were unable to pick up a heat signature at even close range (with in 2'). I even fed a bug and then tried to pick up the heat signature with no luck. </p> <p>I've seen the cameras used to locate termites , carpenter ants, and even bee nest and was hoping this would be another tool in the arsenal but it was not to be. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/the-bed-bug-beacon-new-affordable-bed-bug-monitor#post-69094 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 14:18:13 +0000 Douglas Stern 69094@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I wanted to bring to your attention a brand new product that is coming out soon from the manufacturer of PackTite (a portable bed bug oven), it is called the Bed Bug Beacon. This new product creates its own C02 gas by mixing three packets with water. The C02 gas attracts the bed bugs into the pit track.</p> <p>I've seen the field trial video and I really think it will be a terrific new product to monitor for bed bugs. I don't know the price point yet but the vendor says it will be affordable most likely under $50. </p> <p>You can read more about the product on our blog: <a href="http://www.sternenvironmental.com/blog/2010/03/09/the-bed-bug-beacon-a-new-co2-producing-inexpensive-bed-bug-monitor/" rel="nofollow">http://www.sternenvironmental.com/blog/2010/03/09/the-bed-bug-beacon-a-new-co2-producing-inexpensive-bed-bug-monitor/</a></p> <p>As soon as I have the release to post the video or get any additional information I will let you know. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/finding-new-apt-tips-and-advice#post-68793 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 14:24:36 +0000 bugger09 68793@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hello,</p> <p>I am looking for a new apt in the Brooklyn Area. I'm trying to avoid bed bugs so I am using Bed Bug Registry and checking the housing violation stuff (to check for reports of vermin). I have 2 other ideas I would like to get anyone's feedback on.</p> <p>1) I saw on craigslist there was an ad for Bed Bug Inspectors, a k9 team. The ad said to "inspect before you rent!" I tried searching the forums but is this even a reputable company? Also, is it even possible as a renter to inspect before renting?</p> <p>2) Say I move into a "clean" apt. Would it be wise to caulk up and dust with de any cracks in the walls and floor before moving in? I dont want to be too paranoid but I figure that could help somewhat if a infestation emerges whether in my apt or someone else's.</p> <p>Thank you very much,<br /> bugger09 </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/what-kills-eggs#post-69260 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 20:55:37 +0000 curlybrooklyn 69260@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I have been searching the forums, and can't find anything definitive/comprehensive on what actually will destroy eggs, as opposed to live crawlers. So which of these commonly discusssed treatments work? </p> <p>- Heat (above 120)?<br /> - Water? (Did I read correctly that bedbugs do not swim? So the reason for the hot water, as opposed to just any water, is to destroy eggs, not live hatched bugs?)<br /> - alcohol? 91% kills live adults, but does it have an effect on eggs? (ie, if I wipe down my drawers with it, will it kill any eggs that fell off other clothes into the drawers -- I'm not talking about bugs that harbored and laid eggs in cracks/crevices).<br /> - murphy's oil soap? (or is that just a folk myth) </p> <p>And am I actually right about that thing that bedbugs drown in water? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62678 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:51:34 +0000 Full Couch Encasement 62678@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>My name is Ken Hippner I am the founder and developer of Sofa Safe. Its a FULL couch encasment for a bed bug infested couch/sofa. </p> <p>I am here to answer any questions anyone may have about how it works, and its multi purpose use for bed bug removal and containment. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/inexpensive-and-effective-solutions-to-bed-bugs-share-your-ideas#post-68467 Sat, 27 Feb 2010 14:55:47 +0000 4blossoms 68467@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Given all the people being plagued by bed bugs and the skyrocketing costs that come with dealing with an infestation what are some cheap and effective techniques that you've used to deal with bed bugs? I'll share a couple of techniques that were effective for me and for someone else.</p> <p><u>Suggestion #1</u>:<br /> (This won't permanently get rid of beg bugs from your home but it will help reduce the number of bites you get at night and make bedtime less stressful). Wearing proper bed bug-deterrent clothing will reduce the number of bites you get significantly. Your tools:</p> <p>1 turtleneck shirt<br /> 1 pair of long pants<br /> 1 pair of socks<br /> 1 pair of thin fabric gloves (or pantyhose)<br /> 1 ski mask that covers your head and neck</p> <p>Tuck your shirt into your pants and pull your socks over your pants. Pull up the turtleneck so it's close to your chin and make sure it clings closely to your neck. Then put the ski mask over your head and be sure it goes either over or under your turtleneck. Wear thin fabric gloves (even pantyhose will do) to cover your hands. Be sure everything that you're wearing is made with a fine weave so bed bugs don't get through the material. Your goal is to cover up as much of your body as possible so that these insects don't bite you at night. I haven't gotten any bites on my face so far, so unfortunately don't have a solution to exposed facial skin.</p> <p>This method is uncomfortable but it beats shelling out hundreds of dollars to cope with an infestation! If you can't afford an exterminator or your landlord is slow in sending one then it might be worth doing this. Bed bugs can only live for a year and a half without a blood meal.</p> <p><u>Suggestion #2</u>:<br /> I haven't tried this out yet personally, but it did work for someone else. If you sleep on a bed frame that has 4 legs (not like a platform bed) then this might work for you. Buy some double sided carpet tape and tape it around the legs of your bed frame. Get four plastic containers and fill with isopropyl alcohol (you can buy at any drug store). Put each leg in a bowl of alcohol. Keep the headboard of the bed frame at least 2 inches from the wall. Don't let your bedding touch the floor. If your infestation isn't severe this may be an effective remedy.</p> <p><strong>Don't Forget: bed bugs need to get a blood meal from your body before they can (1) reproduce and (2) shed their exoskeletons (immature bed bugs). By depriving them of a blood meal you will prevent the infestation from getting larger and prevent juvenile bugs from growing into adult bugs that will reproduce.</strong> </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/black-cohosh-aka-bugbane-bugwort-as-a-possible-herbal-repellent#post-69066 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 22:31:30 +0000 4blossoms 69066@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Has anyone heard anything about a type of plant called Black Cohosh (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_cohosh">Actaea racemosa</a>) that supposedly repels bed bugs? Apparently there is some lore about it being used to repel bed bugs in Europe long ago.</p> <p>Excerpt from a <a href="http://www.anmp.org/monographs/">natural medicine website</a>:</p> <p>"The generic name Cimicifuga is from the Latin, cimex, a kind of bug, and fugare, "to put to flight." The English equivalent is Bugbane, and refers to the belief that the plant's strong odor repels insects; in Europe and Siberia, pillows and mattresses were formerly stuffed with the dried tops of the Eurasian species (C. foetida) for this purpose. "</p> <p>If anyone tries this out please post your results. I'm going to look around online to see where this can be ordered... </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/are-bbs-likely-to-stow-away-in-my-blackberry-curve#post-69053 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:36:12 +0000 omshiva 69053@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Dear Bed Buggers,<br /> I want to hear some tips on how to move without moving the bugs and I am baffled by the fact that this bite might obsessive laundering and dry cleaning, I seem to be transporting them unwittingly. I don't understand how this is happening!! I am being followed. Are there in my ears, my hair, my cell phone? Can anyone help me determine the source? Should I be concerned about my Mac? (I was told that with a mile case which we have I should not have a problem with electronics but I am suspicious)..</p> <p>Please HELP </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/diatomaceous-earth-1#post-10652 Sun, 07 Oct 2007 23:42:16 +0000 mrbill0626 10652@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Has anyone had any success using diatomaceous earth (DE) to kill bed bugs? What about cedar chips (such as putting these in dresser drawers, etc)? Seems like I saw once where they are effective, but maybe that's for moths.</p> <p>Thanks</p> <p>Bill Matthews </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/dealing-with-vinyl-records#post-68995 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 01:16:57 +0000 florida st 68995@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Can you de-bug vinyl records by putting them in large ziploc bags and leaving them in the fridge for a couple of days? I am not sure how to deal with them. Heat will warp them, and I know bedbugs love cardboard. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/will-this-work-in-a-packtite#post-68768 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 09:44:56 +0000 offsides1971 68768@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Can you put the stuff you had in ziplock bags in a packtite WITH the ziploc? Also, the same with rubbermaid tubs. Can I just set the books that are in the rubbermaid tub, along with the tub in there? I don't want the ziplock or rubbermaid container to melt and destroy the packtite </p> <p>thanks </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/tips-for-traveling-in-nyc#post-68749 Wed, 03 Mar 2010 22:50:22 +0000 scaredsayscared 68749@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hi All,</p> <p>I recently had a bb scare. I have read the FAQ's on traveling but still have a few questions. We have travel plans to come to NYC in June for a family reunion and staying at a hotel in the city..yikes! Anyhow...checked tripadvisor, googled the hotel, checked bbregistry.com and nothing there but I'm super paranoid now b/c of our scare and want to protect ourselves as best as possible.</p> <p>We have been considering buying a packtite b/c we do travel often but one thing we travel with does not fit in a packtite (we checked the dimensions) and it's our son's playard for sleeping. Any suggestions on what to do? He's 2yrs old and has never slept well in a bed with us (he's a crib kid for sure) so that's not a great option to put him in with us. Would it be better to use the hotel's crib or playard and just wash all his stuff on hot etc when we return or just bring the playard with us and spray with something? Or try Hot shot pest trips maybe? </p> <p>Also, does anyone know of any brand of rolling duffels that you can wash? I'm interested in that if not we might buy the bugzips but really would welcome any suggestions for traveling that have worked for you....thanks so much! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/extra-bedbug-mattress-cover-for-sale-jersey-city#post-68620 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 15:54:38 +0000 jerseycity 68620@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>My husband and I both ordered covers and now we have an extra - queen size protect-a-bed allerzip bedbug cover for sale. It is brand new, unopened - still sealed in the shipping box it arrived in - we didn't even open the box it came shipped in! Asking $80 obo. We had a very low infestation - brought in the house on a suitcase that belonged to our nanny when she moved in with us. We got rid of the suitcase - covered all our mattresses and have not had a bite since! We bought this one based on the recommendations on this website </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/for-canadians-buying-steam-cleaners#post-66463 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:00:48 +0000 twitchyscratchy 66463@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>hello!</p> <p>i just thought i would share some ideas regarding the purchasing of steam cleaners. i recently bought a vapamore from amazon.ca. naively, i thought ".ca" would mean it was coming from a warehouse in canada. (it came from kentucky!) i was also seduced by the seemingly lower price. </p> <p>i was comparing between this company, the allergy guy:<br /> <a href="http://www.theallergyguy.com/product.php?productid=16454&#38;cat=0&#38;page=1" rel="nofollow">http://www.theallergyguy.com/product.php?productid=16454&#38;cat=0&#38;page=1</a></p> <p>and amazon:<br /> <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Vapamore-MR-100-Steam-Cleaning-Steamer/dp/B001PLPHAQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&#38;s=kitchen&#38;qid=1264189878&#38;sr=8-1" rel="nofollow">http://www.amazon.ca/Vapamore-MR-100-Steam-Cleaning-Steamer/dp/B001PLPHAQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&#38;s=kitchen&#38;qid=1264189878&#38;sr=8-1</a></p> <p>i thought i was going to save myself a whopping 30 bucks by doing this, but as it turns out, i really regret not having bought it from the allergy guy. the reason being, the allergy guy ships free on orders over $150 (within canada). i ended up paying $150 S&#38;H on the amazon order. i ordered it express and it came two weeks late, after being held up in customs. i was then slapped with another $50 customs charge!</p> <p>so, in trying to save myself $30, i ended up paying out $200. what a disappointment!</p> <p>i just ordered climbups and a pest pistol bellows from the allergy guy and they are so nice, awesome customer service, small business, good stuff.</p> <p>so. i urge you, if you are considering investing in a vapamore steamer (they carry the reliable, too) to purchase it from the allergy guy (to whom i have no business affiliation whatsoever!) before trying to order from amazon.</p> <p>cheers. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/where-to-buy-a-packtite-for-less-than-300-bux#post-68594 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:12:58 +0000 ThisIsWar 68594@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Is there anywhere else besides the Packtite website where you can purchase a Packtite for less than the $295 that the company is charging for it? I already tried craigslist. Thanks in advance. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/are-these-mattress-encsements-any-good#post-67100 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:10:46 +0000 flabergasted 67100@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Does anyone know if these are good mattres encasements I was stoped into Beds Baths and Beyone tonight and they have them in stock with the pillow protectors. I just had spray #4 fter a set back and I would really like to sleep in my bed. They also had this spray I will try anthing right now on this furniture</p> <p>Allergy Luxe® Bed Bug Mattress Protectors</p> <p>Rest Easy™ Bed Bug Spray </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/new-bed-put-double-sided-foam-tape-around-the-four-legs-of-the-bed#post-67842 Mon, 15 Feb 2010 19:03:33 +0000 sighguysays 67842@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Nothing of the bed touches anything, so bedbugs would have to climb up the legs of the bed to get to me, I assume. I put double-sided foam tape around the legs, to make the bed bugs stuck/glued to the tape in the process. Is this a fairly decent idea? Or could they get me with other means?</p> <p>On a related note, although not practical... can I just put each of my bed legs in a bucket of water? They can't swim could they? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/stay-bite-free-during-the-battle#post-67325 Sat, 06 Feb 2010 09:05:23 +0000 BuggedOutInCT 67325@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I'm posting this for those more financially fortunate than I. They sound like a great way to stay bite-free until the BBs are under control. Especially if your bed-isolation methods are not working.</p> <p>The brand names are Rynoskin or Cabela's Bug Skinz. They are basically stretch-fit, full-body undergarments that bugs cannot bite through or crawl under. They breath and allow natural perspiration. Both are designed for campers and hunters.</p> <p>I know nothing about these items: how well they work, how comfortable they are, etc. I cannot endorse them in any way. I just thought it might be an alternative for those who can afford it. Either will cost you $80 or more. </p> <p>Just a thought.</p> <p>For myself, I am losing all my bedding, cleaning my triple-bagged mattress and bed frame again, isolating the bed with lots of vaseline (the frame is too close to the floor to put the legs in water-moats), and using a sleeping bag instead of sheets and blankets and all. I know I can sanitize the bag by tossing it in the dryer in case the isolation fails. Right now running all my bedding through the dryer takes 3 loads; the sleeping bag will cut it down to one. Wish me luck. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/what-to-expect#post-68437 Fri, 26 Feb 2010 22:05:23 +0000 mindyx0x 68437@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I'm going to start off by sharing my story with you:</p> <p>On Sunday, February 14, I first noticed some red marks on my arms, but didn't think anything of it. I continued to sleep in my bed. A few days later, on Wednesday, Feb. 17, I noticed a couple more red marks on my legs, again, thought nothing of it. The next night, Thursday, there was a bug crawling across my comforter and my boyfriend killed it, where it then left a blood stain on my blanket, I immediately went into panic mode. I googled like crazy and my boyfriend began searching my bed. He checked my sheets, mattress, boxspring, everything. We saw 2 more bugs, he saved one to show to an exterminator. </p> <p>The exterminator came on Saturday, February 20, to treat my room. He saw 1 bug while he was here. I sat in my room while he searched and treated to make sure that he was doing a good job. He saw no signs of bed bugs on my mattress or boxspring, no fecal matter or blood stains, and did not see any other bug besides the 1 he saw when he first arrived. He used a spray and sprayed everything in my room, and I do mean everything. He also used a powder, which he used under the baseboard, behind picture frames, and even behind wall outlet plates, which he removed and then put back on.</p> <p>I have never experienced bed bugs before and I do not know what to expect. My boyfriend has not received any bites and he checks his mattress every night and does not see anything. I have not recieved any more bites since Wednesday, February 17. I have also not seen any bed bugs in my room since the exterminator came and it's been a week. I have not slept in my room. All of my clothes are removed and in garbage bags, I already ran everything that could be through the washer and/or dryer. I have 5 roommates, and none of them have experienced bites or seen any bed bugs. I go to school in Philadelphia and the house I live in is connected to another house. When the exterminator was here, we noticed that the neighbors have a boxspring thrown out in their backyard, I do not know if this has anything to do with my case.</p> <p>I was just wondering if anyone could offer any kind of advice or information that would help. I am afraid to move all of my clothes back into my room and I do not know when I could again sleep in there. I want to make sure that everything is fine. Also, my landlord is making me pay for the exterminator, does anyone know if this is right, because I know in other states landlords have to pay for this. </p> <p>Again, any advice or information would help. This is stressing me out and I would really greatly appreciate it. Thanks again! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/canine-inspections-for-mites-too#post-68107 Sat, 20 Feb 2010 14:55:29 +0000 bait 68107@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Wondering if dogs can be trained to pick up the scent of mites as well as bed bugs; and</p> <p>Do the dogs now trained pick up on just Cimex, or all arthropods; and</p> <p>Do cats in the house cause the dogs to get off task; and</p> <p>How clean (of chemicals and DE) does the space have to be for the dog to be able to sniff?</p> <p>Thanks.</p> <p>Bait </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/i-need-a-plan#post-68244 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 02:05:56 +0000 staringatabug 68244@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Ok so the bugs are definitely still here and I am talking to the pco tomorrow, who will want to come out and spray (again... this will be the 5th time). Previously I had moved out in sense and stayed at my moms. Now I know to stay here until the day they spray... will it matter if I wait a week to move back in after they spray?</p> <p>Any advice would be welcomed! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/infested-cello-please-help#post-68232 Mon, 22 Feb 2010 20:42:39 +0000 David513 68232@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I'm in dire need of good advice. I have an expensive cello and my apartment definitely has bed bugs. I'm moving out soon and I don't want to bring the bed bugs with me, but I'm afraid they're inside my cello. I can't throw the cello out because I can't afford a new one.</p> <p>Advice?? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/can-i-sell-a-giant-box-of-anti-bb-pesticide#post-68065 Fri, 19 Feb 2010 17:36:19 +0000 BugginInTheBigSleazy 68065@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>After dropping over $400 on stuff to kill bedbugs, I discovered that... I don't have bedbugs. (I know. I know.) What am I going to do with this stuff? I did one application with some of these things and never opened the rest. How can I sell this? Here? CL? It seems a shame to keep it under the sink when it has value and some people need it. I'm sure some people would appreciate getting all this stuff at once instead of separately. Thoughts? Help?</p> <p>If you think I should post in another forum or GTFO completely, please feel free to let me know. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/are-photographs-cds-and-records-safe-in-the-packtite#post-67357 Sat, 06 Feb 2010 18:52:49 +0000 crawledon 67357@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Has anyone tried to packtite photos? These photos are near and dear to me and I don't want to destroy them.</p> <p>What about cds? And yes, records. I know this dates me, but I have great recordings on LPs...</p> <p>Thanks. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/stay-bite-free-during-the-battle-1#post-67326 Sat, 06 Feb 2010 09:05:23 +0000 BuggedOutInCT 67326@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I'm posting this for those more financially fortunate than I. They sound like a great way to stay bite-free until the BBs are under control. Especially if your bed-isolation methods are not working.</p> <p>The brand names are Rynoskin or Cabela's Bug Skinz. They are basically stretch-fit, full-body undergarments that bugs cannot bite through or crawl under. They breath and allow natural perspiration. Both are designed for campers and hunters.</p> <p>I know nothing about these items: how well they work, how comfortable they are, etc. I cannot endorse them in any way. I just thought it might be an alternative for those who can afford it. Either will cost you $80 or more. </p> <p>Just a thought.</p> <p>For myself, I am losing all my bedding, cleaning my triple-bagged mattress and bed frame again, isolating the bed with lots of vaseline (the frame is too close to the floor to put the legs in water-moats), and using a sleeping bag instead of sheets and blankets and all. I know I can sanitize the bag by tossing it in the dryer in case the isolation fails. Right now running all my bedding through the dryer takes 3 loads; the sleeping bag will cut it down to one. Wish me luck. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/vancouvers-bed-bug-sauna-plans-now-online#post-65752 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 22:31:34 +0000 cilecto 65752@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>This site featured Vancouver's "Bed Bug Sauna" a while back. BC Housing has now published the plans online.<br /> <a href="http://www.bchousing.org/resources/Programs/ILBC/technical%20bulletins/29-09-12-15-Heat_Treatment_Room_for_Bed_Bugs.pdf" rel="nofollow">http://www.bchousing.org/resources/Programs/ILBC/technical%20bulletins/29-09-12-15-Heat_Treatment_Room_for_Bed_Bugs.pdf</a> </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/can-i-safely-buy-used-things#post-66877 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 13:06:55 +0000 bbgun 66877@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Does anyone have advice to someone addicted to secondhand things? I'm not ready to give up on the huge money savings of buying used items. Plus I think it's more environmentally friendly to reuse things.</p> <p>Since my bed bug incident, I have bought a few used items of clothing. I sealed them until I could put them in the dryer for the requisite amount of time to kill any possible pests.</p> <p>But have any of you bought used furniture after having become aware of bed bugs? If so, what precautions did you take? Used mattresses, box springs and upholstered furniture are pretty much out of the question for me, but how about furniture that could be inspected and treated more easily? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/quickie-caulk-question#post-67098 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 23:53:47 +0000 ukulelejack 67098@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Been fighting BBs since July, thanks to an infested neighbor down below me. I've had almost every crack and crevice in my apartment sealed, and I am continuing to work on the bathroom where most of the BBs have been found.</p> <p>I found a couple bugs fried in the bowl of my ceiling light. I already sealed around the cuff of the light where it meets the ceiling, but they are most likely coming in through the little holes the wires come through to the bulb fixture inside the bowl. </p> <p>I worry they might be able to come out through those holes, then walk upside down and out through the gap between the bowl and the cuff--it's one of those glass bowls held up loosely with a couple of screws you tighten by hand.</p> <p><strong>Anyone know how I could seal those holes where the wires come through? I don't want to mess with electrical without the right stuff. Thanks for the help!</strong></p> <p>P.S. Anyone know if <strong>child-proof caps </strong>will keep them from coming through the electrical outlets? (My outlet boxes are sealed.) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ziploc-vs-hefty-onezip-comparison#post-66422 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:05:45 +0000 soscared 66422@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>In case this helps anyone, or if anyone is about to place a mass order for plastic bags, here's my review of Ziploc brand XXXL bags versus the same sized Hefty OneZip ones. In my experience, the Ziplocs are sturdier (rip less), but the zipper gets annoying to close after a while, esp if the bags are moved or touched a lot or put through the Packtite. Also, it's not always obvious when the zipper is 100% closed.<br /> The Hefty OneZip is easier to zip up and to open, but the zipper sometimes gets stuck on the sides of the plastic adjacent to it, which is annoying and can break the zipper. Also, I find that the bags rip more often, usually at the seam under the zipper, especially if the bags are filled above a certain point.<br /> So, Hefty is more convenient and easy, but needs to be replaced more often, in my experience. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/moving-to-a-new-place-and-not-bringing-bedbugs#post-67041 Sun, 31 Jan 2010 23:13:11 +0000 bedbugssucks 67041@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hi every one. I am new to this site. I recently found bed bugs in the begining of January 2010. I got rid of ALL my furniture and all I have left is my clothes, papers, pics, kitchen stuff and inflated it beds. N some electronics. I told my landlord that I had the idea that I had this things because of bites, but I never found any of then until now. The exterminators told me 6 months that I didn't had bed bugs. Well, they were wrong. They already fumigate it last week and I will be moving the 16 of Feb. Yes, they are coming back again to fumigate. I just want to hear advices how not to take this things to the new place. Had any one had sued a company after they were told they had no bed bugs? I specific told them I had bites all our bodies and that the beds were very itchy when they came 6 months ago. The landlord hired the same stupid company that told me I had no bed bugs. Yes, I am planing to sue either the company, or the landlord or both. I am not the only apt that have bed bugs where I live.<br /> Thank you for your time. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pet-shower-deluxe#post-67077 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 17:12:19 +0000 Crime Scene Clean 67077@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hello,<br /> I am (sadly) new to this issue of bed bugs. I am just getting started on cleaning what I can to get things ready for (?) pesticides or whatever I learn about to be the best answer. For now I have only a few weeks of this problem.<br /> As I am going over how to do things, I have learned about some ways of cleaning that are helpful (and more effective) than just ordinary cleaning supplies. One item I just got and tried last night is called 'Pet Shower Deluxe' (by Rinse Ace).<br /> It is from PetSmart, or even Target. I imagine many places may have it. The price is around $30.00. It is a shower-hose with a side button to start/stop the water (so you don't have to turn the water faucet on/off all the time. And it also has a shower divertor attachment so the shower head can stay on. In my own house it is attached to the bath water faucet (I have a shower pipe there instead of a regular faucet). And I used it to clean small wooden tables in the bathtub with straight hot water. The pressure very good, and the handle is easy to hold (though my thumb gets a little tired from pressing the side 'on' button in.<br /> I would definitely suggest this product - it's so much easier to have a strong spray of water than to have to work so hard to get in between places with lots of soap and super hot water.<br /> This is also especially good as I live in a small place (an apartment) with no backyard or place to take things outdoors and wash.</p> <p>Thanks so much,<br /> and happy to meet you all (in time I hope ;))<br /> C </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/packtite-use-question#post-66981 Sat, 30 Jan 2010 09:21:54 +0000 buggedonLI 66981@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>How long is everyone cooking things in the Packtite? I have been putting the temp sensor in what seems to be the most difficult area to heat up and when that reaches 120 degrees (which usually takes at least 2 hours) I then keep it on for an hour. I don't want to ruin anything by overheating or cooking too long. Any tips/thoughts are appreciated! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pco-not-in-town#post-66932 Fri, 29 Jan 2010 11:11:00 +0000 dpbugvic7 66932@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I found out i have BBs last night . I immediately wanted to use John Furman from Boot-A-Pest, reached out to him, found out he is out of town. He wont be back for 5 days. Should i wait? or contact someone else? anyone have any other recs? looking for THE BEST!<br /> thanks<br /> dan </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/new-video-and-more-info-about-the-diy-dry-ice-bed-bug-monitors#post-64903 Sun, 27 Dec 2009 22:38:58 +0000 Nobugsonme 64903@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>More information and a video from Jeff White demonstrating the method <a href="http://bedbugger.com/2009/12/21/effective-cheap-diy-active-bed-bug-monitor">here.</a> </p> <p>If you want to do this, DO read the comments carefully and watch the video. Dry ice has dangers attached to it and you will also need to research how to handle it properly. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/bb-proofing-the-bathroom#post-66692 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 08:19:53 +0000 ukulelejack 66692@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>With the great help of the amazing Killer Queen, I have done everything I can to protect my apartment from my downstairs neighbor's infestation. He is a hoarder and the City is planning to clean him out and exterminate the entire building, but that is taking some time.</p> <p>Meanwhile, with the whole apartment sealed in every crack and crevice, and treated in a two-prong attack by KQ (recently 2 weeks ago), juvenile BBs are still appearing in my bathroom, about once every 10 days I see one. This seems to be their main point of entry from below. <u>Can anyone help me figure out this mystery?</u></p> <p>Here's what's been done:<br /> I find them on the (light-colored) shower curtain, usually near the top. There is an airvent up there, which I have covered with a piece of air conditioner filter and metal windowscreen, both framed in two layers of duct tape which I then sealed, at the outside edges, with silicone sealant.</p> <p>KQ sealed behind the faucet cuffs in the shower and under the sink. He packed the electrical outlet and sealed it.</p> <p>There are a few long, hairline cracks in the ceiling, which I am going to seal just for the hell of it. </p> <p>Any other suggestions/possibilities for why and how these juvenile BBs keep appearing in my bathroom, please let me know! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/thermal-truck-in-nyc#post-66690 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 01:01:25 +0000 kkat 66690@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hi,</p> <p>Anyone know how I could book a truck to do thermal treatment of my belongings? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-to-get-your-bed-bug-identifiedarticle-on-carolyn-klass#post-66666 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 18:17:30 +0000 Nobugsonme 66666@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p><a href="http://bedbugger.com/2010/01/25/bed-bug-or-not-bed-bug/">This is a blog post</a> about how to get a bed bug identified (a FAQ, if you will) combined with a bit on the new New Yorker article on Cornell's newly retired insect sample diagnostician, Carolyn Klass.</p> <p>Although Klass's office may or may not remain open for samples, I give some suggestions on other possibilities.</p> <p>I don't mention Lou Sorkin, because there may come a time when he is receiving too many visitors, but he has also helped many a NYC bedbugger with bed bug samples. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/advice-appreciated-dealing-with-condo-association-in-chicago#post-66627 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 10:42:39 +0000 S.P. 66627@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hello --</p> <p>I'm in a 9-unit condo in Chicago. I've worked with a top-notch exterminator for a year, and have had a dozen sprayings, but I'm stilling being bit.</p> <p>In September I found out that the unit diagonal to me has had the same issue for a year and they had treated three times with ozone and still had bugs. I put them in touch with my exterminator, they have had two treatments, and they believe that the issue is solved.</p> <p>Meanwhile, I'm still being bitten and the condo board does not feel that any building action is necessary. I've given them articles on the topic, but they feel it's my problem and they feel that the building is "safe."</p> <p>I believe that all 9 units should be inspected by a canine and I have established a building rate that is reasonable. We have an all-unit meeting on Saturday to discuss the issue. My goal is agreement that we have an all-unit inspection, but I'm going up against the other two board members (I'm the third).</p> <p>Any advice on how to convince these people that it's for everyone's good that we pay to have the building inspected? Or to convince them that two sprayings in a heavily infested unit probably did not rid it of the bugs?</p> <p>THANK YOU THANK YOU. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/did-i-make-the-right-choice#post-65319 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 17:55:09 +0000 TThelp 65319@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>So, I ordered a steamer. I wanted to make the right choice as this is a BIG investement for us--and of course b/c I've got to rid ourselves of these nasty suckers!<br /> I learned alot on here. And, I shopped around.<br /> I have the Reliable T630 on order. I found it for the best price I could. I asked the retailer what the difference was in the T630 and T730 since the 730 runs about $50 more and is listed with slightly LESS power. They didn't know, so I ordered the T630.<br /> BTW, the T730 has continuous steam--I've since learned. That would be nice, I think.</p> <p>Now, I see this:<br /> <a href="http://www.govacuum.com/vapor-steam-cleaners-comparison-table.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.govacuum.com/vapor-steam-cleaners-comparison-table.html</a></p> <p>Scroll down. Look what they are saying about the Vapormore (mentioned here on bb too) versus the Reliable! YIKES! I think I should have ordered it and saved $200. It sounds BETTER.</p> <p>What's everyones input?</p> <p>TIA </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ap038g-testing-new-glue-board-type-bed-bug-monitor#post-66023 Fri, 15 Jan 2010 10:28:03 +0000 Douglas Stern 66023@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>We wanted to share with you interesting new news about a very low cost passive bed bug monitor that is making its way to the professional pest control market in the first quarter 2010. We have been asked to field test the product by the top management at Atlantic Glue and Paste ( AP&#38;G). </p> <p>I feel that it is an innovative new product that provide harborage that bed bugs like, can be concealed in between a bed and box spring, appears unobtrusive, and yet captures and retains bed bugs if they are present for inspection by a pest professional.</p> <p>We may even be offering these inexpensive monitors called the Bedbug Detection System on our website in the near future, but for now we wanted to share the news with the forum.</p> <p>As we all know that early detection can allow quick and relatively inexpensive treatment of a problem, an inexpensive glue-board type monitor can be widely used by hotels, apartment complexes and give peace of mind to a person who has had a bed bug problem, had treatment, and fears that they will return. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/vaselinepetroleum-jelly-may-not-actually-work#post-66091 Sun, 17 Jan 2010 03:01:11 +0000 HellHathNoFuryLikeABedBug 66091@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I purchased some generic petroleum jelly from walgreens to apply to my bed's legs. After applying the stuff pretty thickly and in a course pattern (I mashed the jelly up and down to make peaks and valleys in it, thus harder to cross), I decided to test it out. I captured a bed bug onto a piece of paper and then managed to eventually get the bed bug to walk off the paper onto the Jelly.<br /> Ofcourse, as the thread title implies, the bed bug walked on top of the jelly virtually completely unimpeded. I watched it walk for ~4-5 inches with no sign of slowing down. Perhaps the bug would have eventually slowed down after crossing more and more jelly, but from what I saw myself im not convinced at all. It was almost as if the jelly was just too thick and acted like a solid surface for the bug to walk on.<br /> There are undoubtedly a lot of factors that affect whether or not a bed bug will become trapped by the jelly (size/stage of the bug, amount of jelly, thickness of layer, etc.) . I do not consider my observation definitive proof that jelly doesnt work, but it is enough evidence for me to no longer trust this method<br /> I have heard mineral oil is effective when placed in a bowl. Has anyone in their own personal experience captured a bed bug in mineral oil or watched one sink in it? Basically, im looking for any cheap liquid/substance that can be placed in a soup can, that will not damage a steel bedpost, and will definitely trap bed bugs everytime they try to cross.</p> <p>Also slightly off-topic, but is there any substance/pesticide that will effectively kill bed bug eggs. From what I have read there isn't, but I was hoping that perhaps i've overlooked something. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/useful-stuff-page-revamped#post-66149 Mon, 18 Jan 2010 16:05:23 +0000 Nobugsonme 66149@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>The <a href="http://bedbugger.com/UsefulStuff">Useful Stuff</a> page has been revamped to include:</p> <p><ul><li>Detailed information on why we recommend shopping directly with <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?B=195337&#38;U=304442&#38;M=24252">US Bed Bugs</a> (related to their prices, special offers, and shipping policies).</li></p> <p><li>Specifically, we include the US Bed Bugs return policy, which says they don't reship returned merchandise. This is a huge reason why they're good to deal with when it comes to bed bug-related products.</li></p> <p><li>A warning to Amazon buyers that items from any manufacturer or merchant shipped as "fulfilled by Amazon" may have been returned (this is true even of US Bed Bugs/North Shore Care products, since "fulfilled by Amazon" means Amazon does the shipping); items shipped directly by other merchants will have varying return policies.</li></ul></p> <p>There is no reason to panic because you have bought something from Amazon or another merchant. Sealed items received from most manufacturers are probably going to be bed bug-free. However, we do want you to be aware of the possibility that some merchants or Amazon may ship returned goods (just as brick-and-mortar merchants will usually resell returned goods), and we want to emphasize that their policy against doing this is one of the reasons why we love US Bed Bugs. </p> <p>Yes, Bedbugger has an affiliate relationship with US Bed Bugs, but this is because we <em>choose</em> to do so. (Please see the site's advertising <a href="http://bedbugger.com/disclosure-policy">disclosure policy</a>.) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/you-can-now-get-sets-of-four-climbup-interceptors#post-66055 Sat, 16 Jan 2010 01:09:29 +0000 Nobugsonme 66055@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I want to let you know that you can now get <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?B=208296&#38;U=304442&#38;M=24252">sets of four ClimbUp Interceptors at US Bed Bugs</a> (not just the case of 12). </p> <p>This is something forum users have requested and Adam of US Bed Bugs has made it happen!</p> <p>Although US Bed Bugs' default shipping policy on the product is free shipping on $50+ orders, Bedbugger readers can use the free shipping coupon code on our ClimbUp Interceptors banner in the sidebar, even on a small order such as this.</p> <p><em>(Please read this site's <a href="http://bedbugger.com/disclosure-policy">Disclosure Policy</a>.)</em> </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/put-in-inteceptors-not-catching-any-bugs#post-65780 Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:46:21 +0000 flabergasted 65780@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>On the advise BBCouke I bought interceptors I have had them in since friday and no bugs - is it possible they are hibernating? I got chewed up pretty good the New Year weekend . I had my 3rd spray friday morning put them in when I got home that night. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/climbup-interceptors-now-at-northshore-care-coupon-for-free-shipping#post-48265 Wed, 06 May 2009 19:24:16 +0000 Nobugsonme 48265@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>We heard today that you can now purchase the new Climbup™ Interceptors (passive bed bug monitors) at NorthShore Care. You can <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?B=208296&#38;U=304442&#38;M=24252">click this link</a> or any of our NorthShore ads (such as the NorthShore Care ad for Protect-a-Bed AllerZip encasements at top right on this page), and order them. If you use code BBFREE you will get free shipping on your entire order! Right now, as a special added bonus, you'll also get a free BugZip drawer liner, along with free shipping, if you order through Bedbugger and use code BBFREE at checkout.</p> <p>NorthShore Care ships really quickly, and discreetly, which is a nice bonus.</p> <p><em>(Bedbugger has an affiliate relationship with NorthShore Care, which means that if you purchase through our links, it helps support this website at <strong>no</strong> additional cost to you. We're grateful to NorthShore Care for offering our readers the best deals we know of on Protect-a-Bed AllerZip encasements and Climbup™ Interceptors, as well as the special offers available via the coupon code above.)</em></p> <p>Climbup™ Interceptors are passive bed bug monitors. NorthShore Care sells a box of 12 for $57.95 (as of right now). You place a disk under your bed leg, chair legs, or sofa legs, and any bed bugs using those legs to climb onto or off of the furniture will be stopped.</p> <p>These monitors are not designed to treat an infestation. But they can be a useful tool for detecting and monitoring.</p> <p>For anyone who wishes to isolate the bed, it's a preferable alternative to putting your bed leg in a jar of oil or other liquids, because it will catch samples rather then deterring. You will also see whether the bed bug is coming onto or leaving the bed, which may be useful to know.</p> <p>In addition, for anyone who doesn't have bed bugs, but is in an infested building, these disks would serve as a good warning that bed bugs had arrived in your unit.</p> <p> You can also click the following links to download a PDF <a href="http://www.northshorecare.com/pdf/climbup-brochure.pdf">brochure</a> about Climbup™ Interceptors, or <a href="http://www.northshorecare.com/pdf/climbup-instructions.pdf">instructions</a> for their use. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ddvp-no-pest-strips-information#post-26481 Fri, 11 Jul 2008 11:53:14 +0000 Bugologist 26481@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>The EPA for a while was reviewing DDVP and the label associated with it. The following article is from 2001 and talks about the review very briefly:</p> <p><a href="http://www.copesan.com/pdf/q1_2001.pdf" rel="nofollow">http://www.copesan.com/pdf/q1_2001.pdf</a> </p> <p>Recently, the EPA approved the use of DDVP with some additional restrictions of how it can be used. Read the following article:</p> <p><a href="http://www.epa.gov/opp00001/reregistration/ddvp/ddvp_changes.htm" rel="nofollow">http://www.epa.gov/opp00001/reregistration/ddvp/ddvp_changes.htm</a> </p> <p>PCT in March of 2008 published an article called "The Return of DDVP" in which is explained that DDVP, which the active ingredient is dichlorvos, an organophosphate, has been under review by the EPA for the last 20 years. I don't have a PCT Online username and password but I'm sure someone on this site does and can access the article and post in on the board. It goes into a lot of detail about why and what not. It says that DDVP is now being reintroduced to the market after approval from the EPA and the first form to hit the market are the resin strips (No-Pest Strips). In the future, that active ingredient will also be produced in an aerosol, fogger and liquid residual but not for some months/years down the road.</p> <p>So for all of you hoping something stronger would hit the market, here you go. It may take a while to get some more user friendly versions of this active ingredient on the market (aerosol cans, liquids) but they are on their way. For now, we do have the "no-pest strips" which can be used to treat items in closed areas (bags, coolers, etc...).</p> <p>I've used it for bed bugs and it does kill the bugs. We're still looking to test it on the eggs but just haven't had the time. My gut says it should work. The developing embryo has to breathe, thus taking in the fumigant. But no proof yet. I don't have printable data but I promise you it kills bed bugs. Obviously, if you do use it, it's always a good idea to leave the items in with the strip a little longer than recommended to make sure they are all dead. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/sale-on-plastic-storage-bins#post-65802 Tue, 12 Jan 2010 10:37:35 +0000 flabergasted 65802@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Home Depot Canada has a sale on the 68 ltr plastic storage bins for 3.99 right now and 7.99 for the doubles - so if you on a tight budget this may help out. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/car-precautions#post-65290 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 10:46:58 +0000 buggedout16 65290@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I know I've asked similar questions before, and I'm sorry. I think I'm being illogical and paranoid/ineffective here so I wanted to ask a few questions.</p> <p>#1- Anyone else who ever suspected bed bugs in your car... how did you confirm or deny their presence there?<br /> #1a- If you DID have them in your car and it was your only vehicle/means of transportation, what did you do on a daily basis (not talking about extended trips/vacations but day-to-day errands, going to work/school sort of thing) to keep from carrying them with you?<br /> #1b- How did you end up treating your car (once again especially if this was your/your family's ONLY vehicle and you don't live in a walkable city.)</p> <p> Right now I don't know whether my car has BBs or not. I may have gotten some bites in it, but not sure. My partial inspection so far hasn't shown any signs of them. So right now.. for work- I carry my shoes in a ziploc and drive in separate shoes, put on my "work" shoes and socks when I get there (I can't change completely before going inside- it's a parking garage and there's not really anywhere to change.) I keep my purse in a ziploc and my winter coat also goes in a ziploc when I get out to the car until I get to work. I try to shake out my clothes as well as possible when I get there, but it's not like I can take a shower and change. Am I being crazy to even wear my coat over these clothes that are possibly contaminated, and store at work, and act like it's protected somehow while in the car by the ziploc bags? I feel like I'm not doing anything right here. I'd appreciate other people's ideas...</p> <p>I am going to go read some other threads now and try to be helpful there, since it seems I'm always asking never giving answers!!! I would really appreciate any advice on the above... </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/professional-help-with-caulking#post-65011 Tue, 29 Dec 2009 02:06:52 +0000 et 65011@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Anyone know of someone (someone GOOD of course) who could be hired to help with caulking a prewar NYC apartment?</p> <p>We just had our 2nd thermal treatment (much more thorough than the 1st, so hopefully it will be successful), but I am terrified that the bugs could enter from another apartment. Even if that was not the source of our current problem, it could happen in the future....</p> <p>I've done a lot of reading on caulking &#38; products here, but what with working full time and having a 2 year old running around who I wouldn't want to have around during the process - I'd love to hire someone to do it for us.</p> <p>This would be a BIG job, I think. I wouldn't be surprised if it took a few days. I would be able to do the painting afterwards myself, it's just the caulking....</p> <p>Has anyone done this? Was it a PCO? Housepainter? Handyman? (Just someone handy?)</p> <p>Is this an untapped market? Anyone out of work want to start their own company? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/foam-memory-foam-vs-bbs#post-58744 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 20:42:51 +0000 bbfiend 58744@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>So, I read around here that the BBs don't like foam/memory foam? Can anyone expound on that for me please? Thanks!!!!! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/advice-4#post-61937 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 01:27:41 +0000 emilyjaybee 61937@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>My boyfriend and I moved into a somewhat dilapidated cabin outside of Boulder, CO. It took about a month before I started noticing large clumps of extremely itchy swollen red bites. To summarize a month of confused anxiety, "BED BUGS."<br /> Upon realizing this, and doing what I could in my meager budget to eradicate the bugs, the situation turned out to be worse than I ever could have imagined;<br /> The Bugs had nestled all along the wooden slats that comprised the walls, as well as the in small crevices in the floorboards, (I can only imagine how those filthy little bloodsuckers have since made themselves cozy in my clothes and books and other take-ables.)<br /> Anyway, I brought the situation to the attention of my landlord, who was not surprised to hear that Bed Bugs were here - apparently tenants in the past had complained of them.<br /> Asking the landlord to pay for the $4,000-$5,000 treatment is not a possibility, he does not have the money. Plus, we're moving from here in a month and a half.<br /> Basically, I'm seeking advice on many parts;</p> <p>I'm looking for advice on inexpensive short-term relief, as well as the necessary measures to make sure that I do not take these F*&#38;^#$'s with me when I move out of here at the end of December.<br /> Also, to complicate matters a little more - I have a dog - is she an issue to think about, whether the bugs will burrow into her hair?<br /> And also, I think that my car might possibly have trace amounts of bugs.<br /> I don't really know where to start, I just need to hear some good solid advice on how to make sure when I leave this shithole, I leave the Bed Bugs as well.<br /> THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!! to anyone offering anything.</p> <p>Oh, incase it matters:<br /> "A List Of Measures I Have Taken That Have Proven to be Ineffective in the Fight Against Bed Bugs"<br /> -steam cleaning the mattress + box spring + bed frame<br /> -tearing apart the box spring<br /> -steam cleaning the walls and floors<br /> -bathing the dog in anti-tick shampoo<br /> -leaving heat off in our bedroom at night, in attempts to curb bed bug activity<br /> -twice weekly washing and drying of the bed sheets<br /> -freezing of comforter + all pillows<br /> -lining of floor boards with Diatomaceous Earth<br /> -coating bed legs in Vaseline</p> <p>One more big question: Has anyone actually tried the Bed Bug Bully - Does it work?? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/bed-bug-proof-sofa#post-51631 Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:03:53 +0000 surrounded 51631@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I am moving, and will be leaving my sofa behind. I have never suspected or found bedbugs in it, but no way am i taking it with me.</p> <p>is there some sort of sofa, or sofa approximation, that i can get that is bed bug proofable? like something on a metal frame, with individual cushions that can be taken off and put in a dryer. or cushions that i can put an encasement on. In the event that i ever get bugs again (i live in brooklyn), I cant afford to keep throwing out furniture. </p> <p>I wont invest in a new couch, as I cant afford a new one anyway and there is no way to find a bug-free used one in this town. Do I have to sit on the floor the rest of my life?</p> <p>any ideas? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/packtite-for-sale-pickup-in-brooklyn-carroll-gardens-asap#post-65040 Tue, 29 Dec 2009 15:36:41 +0000 radicalacceptance 65040@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>hi,</p> <p>like you, i suffered the pain, anxiety, and misery of discovering bed bugs. actually, i never had bed bugs in my room, but my roommates had them in their bedroom and in our shared living room (which, fortunately, I never used). ironically, the day they told me that they discovered the bugs was the day i gave them 30 days notice because i'd found a new apartment. in order to be super careful (and i was), i purchased a packtite, laundered and dried everything, threw away 90% of my belongings and 100% of my furniture, etc. it was hell. i'm not quite through the process of moving yet, but i'm at the stage where i'd like to <strong>sell my packtite</strong> to make some money (having literally "lost everything in the fire" so to speak). </p> <p>i paid $300 for it 3 weeks ago and probably used it 5-6 cycles. the batteries on the thermometer ran out (i think i was supposed to take them out between cycles), but otherwise it's basically brand new. i know the misery that goes with this ordeal, and i'm really not looking to fleece anyone, so i'm open to reasonable offers- i'm hoping for $200...? make an offer, basically.</p> <p>also, as stated above, im leaving 100% of my furniture behind (none of which has *technically* been exposed to bed bugs... but i know what that means...) so if anyone wants a full size bed, desk, dresser, etc while they're picking up the packtite, its all yours!</p> <p>please respond ASAP- i'm moving soon! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/toss-the-mattress-replace-with-used#post-65022 Tue, 29 Dec 2009 10:05:13 +0000 cilecto 65022@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Someone shared his approach to "successful" control in a 15 bed rooming house. Advised to toss the mattress and buy a used one but inspect. I wanted to highlight this point for discussion, in case someone else is considering this. Why would a sane person replace a used buggy mattress with another used, potentially buggy mattress?</p> <p>Original thread here<br /> <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/has-anyone-tried-cedarcides-best-yet-does-it-work?replies=17#post-65013" rel="nofollow">http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/has-anyone-tried-cedarcides-best-yet-does-it-work?replies=17#post-65013</a> </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/question-7#post-64915 Mon, 28 Dec 2009 01:30:43 +0000 jessicaps 64915@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I won't go into my whole story here, I just have a question. When it comes to throwing furniture out (no harborages found just a couple random bugs--need to get rid of this furniture anyway) when should we do this?<br /> - BEFORE treating (for a second time) and packing hings we are taking into bags and boxes?<br /> or<br /> - AFTER we have sterilized and moved everything out of the apartment..</p> <p>My concern would be a stray bug falling onto something or into the truck bed we will be using to move some things... my other concern is that if the majority of bugs do happen to be in a piece of furniture (although it has all been treated and inspected by pco) it will make it more likely that we miss a bug on something that we take with us... Everything will be treated with bedlam, alcohol, ddvp strips in bins, or the dryer, but I still would like to hear different opinions on which option would work best.</p> <p>:) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/double-sided-tape-repelling-bed-bugs#post-64889 Sun, 27 Dec 2009 19:26:29 +0000 buggedmama 64889@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I've seen a couple concerns lately about double-sided tape repelling bed bugs, as when one gets caught they send signals to others causing them to spread. I just wanted to share my experience. When I lived in my infested apartment, the FIRST thing I did was put double sided tape around the perimeter of my bedroom and my daughter's bedroom (including the outlets) as it was the only thing I had ever heard to do about bed bugs, before I'd visited this site. On both sides of the wall between our two rooms (which my bed HAD been up against), I caught a few dozen bugs. Mostly nymphs, but I had already manually killed with alcohol and vacuumed up a lot of adults. </p> <p>On the OTHER hand, the double sided tape I put around apple juice cans that I put my bed legs in never caught a single bug (it was a new bed, I had thrown out the infested bed). This might have been the result of a few things, a) that most of them were gone from the various other methods including 3 pesticide treatments, b) that they couldn't climb the apple juice tins to get to the tape, or c) that the tape did indeed repel them.</p> <p>All of that noted, I would suggest from my experience that strategically placed tape can monitor for and catch bed bugs... but maybe I got lucky? All in all, I think I would use the tape again in the future if I had an infestation... </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/seems-scholl-is-out-on-encasements#post-64642 Wed, 23 Dec 2009 01:21:41 +0000 flabergasted 64642@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Some say encase both the box spring and mat some say don't. Who is right???</p> <p>I want to go pick them up tommorow so I can actually sleep on my bed.</p> <p>Also should I get the pillow encasements for the nice new pillows I bought. I threw every one out i the house. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-i-defeated-headlice-can-it-work-for-bed-bugs#post-64546 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 05:36:26 +0000 abitbugged 64546@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I am new to issues regarding bb. However, I want to know if this might be a way of reducing the chance of infestations.</p> <p>When my daughter was in a preschool/daycare she got headlice several times. No matter how hard I worked at bombing the apartment, using prescription shampoos, etc they came back because some kids in the daycare were not being treated effectively.</p> <p>So I came up with my own method and she never got headlice again.</p> <p>When we came home, the first thing I did was put all our clothing, purse, shoes, papers, etc into the freezer. Then we took a shower together and washed our hair and dried it. Totally clean, we went about our business. I took my purse out of the freezer the next morning, took her to daycare and went to work. Picked her up at night and did it all again. This went on until she was out of preschool and we never had the problem again. </p> <p>Now I don't know if this is good for bed bugs. But a big deep freeze may not be a bad idea for those who travel a lot. Put everything in it. Luggage, laptops, everything! Take a shower right away. Leave things in the freezer until the next day.</p> <p>Will that kill bb too?</p> <p>I don't know if bb will die over night in the freezer, but headlice do.</p> <p>Does anyone know if this would work for prevention of bedbugs coming into your home? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/is-vikane-and-the-ddvp-in-those-no-pest-strips-by-hot-shot-the-same-thing#post-64473 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 11:34:03 +0000 offsides1971 64473@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Just wondering..thanks </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/please-feedback-safe-passage-holiday-travel-plan#post-64425 Sun, 20 Dec 2009 14:00:09 +0000 cilecto 64425@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Several people have posted here, just before holidays, that they've just discovered that they have BB, or are in middle of treatment and want to “go home” without spreading BB to the places they visit. Getting out from a BB situation can be a useful lifesaver and IMHO, can be done safely, by planning ahead. I'd like to present for your feedback, my approach to this issue, based on my own practices. I hope that this will provoke a healthy discussion and also provide a useful guide.</p> <p>Develop a mindset of “clean”, “suspect” and “infested” with regard to your things and environments.</p> <p>I assume that you have access to a washer/dryer, but maybe not a packtite. You are also short on time and relatively new to the BB game. There are also other guides to traveling BB free, such as this site's FAQ and Richard Cooper's guide.<br /> <a href="http://bedbugger.com/faqs/travel/" rel="nofollow">http://bedbugger.com/faqs/travel/</a><br /> <a href="http://bedbugcentral.com/shop/products.cfm/bed-bug-travel-guide-lite" rel="nofollow">http://bedbugcentral.com/shop/products.cfm/bed-bug-travel-guide-lite</a></p> <p>The scope of this guide is to prevent you from carrying “home” BB that you have in your place or your car. It does not take into account BB you might pick up in transit, from the bus, plane, train, taxi or rental car. I also can't guarantee that it works.</p> <p>Before you go – Decide how you're going and what you're taking (and what you really need to take). If you have BB at home, your car is suspect. If you're traveling with your car, treat it as an extension of your “suspect” (or infested) home. </p> <p>Get bags. Get an assortment of bags; small ziplocks, large ziplocks, produce bags, trash bags, deli containers, etc. Key is that they be airtight and that they be stored and transported without tearing or breaking. Non-zip bags should be knotted shut when “in use”. Protect your unused bags by sealing them in a bag, as well.</p> <p>Decide on luggage. I like a canvas/nylon duffel, that I can throw in the dryer, as needed.</p> <p>Minimize what you're taking. Avoid taking “infested” items. If your bag breaks (or airport inspectors open your stuff) you have a problem. Take a minimum of “suspect” items, like your phone and keep them bagged when not in use. If you don't need your laptop or your papers or books, leave them behind. If you must take items, have bags for them and keep the items bagged unless you're using them (and then, only if you can observe for activity). Before backing your computer or phone, inspect the device, look ridges and grooves. Don't overlook the cords and adapters. This goes for your wallet (avoid), your cellphone, your makeup, etc. If you're taking small stuff, like keys or cards, you don't need to Vikane them or do anything drastic. Drop your keys (not your electronic car key) in a cup of hot water. Wash your credit card in warm soapy water, and check the grooves for eggs. Rub down any papers (or your license), looking out for bumps that indicate BB or eggs. If you have a passport, pay close attention to the spine and area around staples. Books are a problem, as BB can hide and lay eggs in the spine. Inspect your cash and bills.</p> <p>If necessary, treat your clothes, shoes, accessories, luggage, etc in the dryer or packtite. Search the boards for tips on working with a dryer. Everything you are taking “home” needs to be "clean", “inspected”, “treated” or “new” (BTW, whenever possible, I heat treat new clothes I bring home and I dump packaging ASAP.)</p> <p>Work in a well-lit place with a smooth, uncluttered surface. Try to work uninterrupted. You can also use plastic bins to sort and organize your stuff as you work.</p> <p>Consider clothes that are easily washable/dryable and shoes that are simple and washable (like crocs, flip-flops, etc.)</p> <p>Make a kit of the things you will wear at or to your destination. Bag it. Wash/dry a towel to use for your pre-exit shower. Bag it.</p> <p>Bag your luggage, securely.</p> <p>On departure – If you're not taking your car (or optionally if you are, encouraged, to keep from infesting your "suspect" car or worsening the infestation):<br /> Undress and put away your dirty clothes wherever you usually do: Take your “clean clothes kit” and towel to the bathroom bathroom. Shower. Break open the towel and wipe down. Open your clothes kit and dress. Inspect your luggage bag and exit. You are on your way.</p> <p>If you're uncertain about your floor, or worse, have BB roaming in broad daylight. leave barefoot, wipe down your feet with wet wipes outside (dump the wipes safely) and put shoes on outside.</p> <p>If you are taking your car or other “suspect” transport mode (or optionally if you're not):<br /> Keep all “clean” items in your car bagged, coat, etc. If possible, have a pair of shoes for the car. On arrival, bag anything you don't really need and leave in the car. Remove shoes, if possible. Have your host leave a clear path from entrance to shower. Take your “clean clothes kit” with you, as well as empty bag(s) for your current clothes. Make a beeline to the shower and disrobe inside the shower. Securely bag your clothes (you can wash and dry them later, if you wish), shower and change into your clean clothes. You are now on your way to a happy and hopefully BB-free holiday with your friends and family. (Please avoid using your car until you are ready to leave).</p> <p>Happy holidays. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/stay-diligent-in-your-infested-apartment-building#post-64449 Sun, 20 Dec 2009 22:02:40 +0000 buggedmama 64449@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hopefully everyone who is on this forum has read all the FAQs on the main Bedbugger site and is following the protocols diligently. I just wanted to send out a warning to those of you who live in apartment/condo buildings that you should stay diligent with bedbug protocols (caulking, vacuuming, bed isolation [if you opted to do it], DE, washing/bagging clothes, keeping clutter-free, inspecting furniture regularly, etc.) for as long as you live in that apartment building, or any large apartment complex for that matter. There is a good chance that the bugs are still living in someone else's apartment, even if it's been sprayed because many people don't follow other protocols. </p> <p>The reason I post this? In the apartment complex that I lived in when I had the infestation, the buzzer was hooked up to my cell phone. When I moved out of that apartment, I had been "bed bug free" (no bugs, no bites--and I had severe reactions) for about 8 months. A couple months ago, a year after having moved out of that building, I picked up my cell phone and on the other end a man said, "Pest control." Bewildered, I said, "Pardon?" And he repeated, "Pest control," and "We're at the front door." Catching on that for some reason my cell phone must still be linked to the buzzer code at the old building, I said, "Pest control? What for?" He said, "I don't know, just says 'second spraying'." (I had 3 sprays when I was living there the year before). I replied, "Oh well, uh, you've got the wrong number." And hung up. </p> <p>I think it's pretty safe to say that the bugs were still living in a neighbouring apartment, even though I managed to keep them at bay with diligence for 8 months, and PCO was called back for a new round of treatments to the adjacent apartments--though seemingly no one had yet moved into my old one. (Someone dodged a bullet!) </p> <p>It's important not to live in fear. After I was bite free for a couple months, I started hanging clothes up in the closet again. That was important to me, because rifling through bags was driving me nuts. But I kept a minimal amount, washed and dried on hot, kept them off the floor, and stuck with most other protocols as long as I lived there. Once I had already packed up and thrown out so many things, and been living that way for several months, it really wasn't even a hardship to continue doing it to the extent I was, and well, it seems to have paid off! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/packtite-questions#post-63330 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 22:00:54 +0000 buggedout16 63330@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Okay, I have read all the Packtite FAQ and threads that I can find, but I still have a few questions (big surprise!) If I am treating 2-3 pairs of shoes, where should I put the probe? Currently I've been putting it just under the insole of one of the shoes closest to the middle of the pile. Is that a good accurate reading, or should they be out in the "air" if you know what I mean, inside the shoe? I can't figure out if what I'm doing could be giving a false high reading? And what if they have thick kind of "platform" heels- how can I tell it's getting all the way through there? (I guess those may be shoes I just need to get rid of huh?)</p> <p>Also, if the Packtite gets up to 120 or higher in less than 3 hours, do you still leave your "stuff" to cook for the whole 4 hours? Or just the hour after 120? I'm just not sure. </p> <p>Thanks! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/found-two-bugs-and-took-the-following-action#post-64150 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 04:15:33 +0000 kl1618 64150@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I found two bugs on the bed skirt of my bed. I literally tore apart my room and the rest of my apt. I laundered all of my clothes and put them in plastic bags. I also laundered all of my bedding, and ran them through the dryer on high heat for hours. I sprayed my entire bed frame, mattress and box spring in 99% rubbing alcohol. I have a bed bug proof mattress and box spring cover now. If the bugs are in there, they'll die in there. There's no getting out. Everything under my bed has been sprayed in alcohol and stored in plastic containers. I washed and sprayed my dresser with alcohol. I washed the baseboards and floors of my entire apartment with soap and bleach. I re-caulked all the cracks in our home. I vacuumed, sprayed and rolled all carpets in plastic. I'll take them out once I can steam them. I removed all pillows and put them in plastic until I can steam them as well. I haven't found any more bugs and I've gone through every inch of my apartment. I called fumigators and they said if I've only found two bugs so far I probably have a minor infestation. I'm going to wait and see if I continue getting bites (so far I have no new bites on my body). If my manic cleaning hasn't destroyed all the eggs, I'll fumigate the house. But I'm really hoping they're gone for good. I'll keep you posted. Maybe I've caught this in time? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/triple-locked-mattress-and-pillow-eencasements#post-64052 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 18:25:42 +0000 BugZapped 64052@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>When I was first on this site I read a discussion of two or three different brands of encasements with different ways of closing/locking - and research (or perhaps "research") studies about them. I've searched the site but cannot find this thread. </p> <p>Can someone point me to this URL? Or tell me which brand of mattress/box spring/pillow encasements is triple-locked? Many thanks in advance for your help! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/richard-fagerlunds-soapwateralcohol-and-de-procedures#post-63965 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 23:55:43 +0000 Nobugsonme 63965@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>This has come up before and so I thought I would direct everyone to this article.</p> <p>Richard Fagerlund ("Ask the Bugman") is touting his soup/water/alcohol mixture again. See <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/09/DD0L1ARQ9A.DTL">this SF Chronicle article</a> of 12/9/2009). He suggests spraying it in all kinds of places and then spraying DE on top of it (NOT mixing the two as some have cited him as suggesting).</p> <p>I do not agree that thermal treatment is a bad idea because it does not prevent reinfestation. Thermal and dust are not mutually exclusive, and getting rid of bed bugs swiftly and thoroughly has a lot to be said for it.</p> <p>I am also not recommending this protocol. But this Fagerlund treatment comes up here from time to time and I wanted to link to it so people could read it in full. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/mattress-covers-cat-and-duct-tape-not-sticking#post-63932 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 13:56:15 +0000 minaa 63932@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hello everyone. I had bedbugs back in summer, and after three treatments and encasement, I've seen no bedbugs and have suffered no bites resemble bed bug bites since my encasement. However, I do have a problem: my cat likes to climb up the side of my bed to get under the covers, and there are little puncture-marks on the sides of my protect-a-bed mattress cover now from her claws. I can only keep her from doing it so often (closing my bedroom when I'm not there, getting a big enough comforter and tuck it under the mattress itself so she can't get under it, etc) but I also need to find a better solution than duct tape to patch these holes.</p> <p>My duct tape isn't sticking at all. Does anyone have any better suggestions? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/anxiety-is-too-much-moving-and-need-to-share-a-vikane-chamber#post-63684 Sat, 05 Dec 2009 16:56:01 +0000 radicalacceptance 63684@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>hi all,</p> <p>i'm in brooklyn and planning to move at the end of this month. is anyone interested in sharing a vikane chamber? the thing is, i dont actually have bed bugs (well, two PCOs have cleared me and I haven't seen or felt any signs of them but I rent a room in an apartment that is infested and undergoing treatment). i was planning on moving out of the apartment at the end of the month anyway, and now i'm freaking out because i dont want to have to stay and endure the anxiety of possibly getting them. </p> <p>i want to make sure when i move i dont spread them (even though i dont have them i'm going to assume i have been exposed to be safe). does anyone want to share the cost a vikane chamber? i dont have much stuff at all. i'm actually considering ditching all my furniture if i need to... whatever it takes to shed this constant state of paranoia and panic. the things i've read about the vikane chamber/truck move are seriously the most comforting thing i've read about in a long time. </p> <p>also, im currently looking for an apartment so if anyone is looking for an apartment or a new roommate and is scared because of the bed bug issue... we could explore the idea of starting over together... this trauma is ridiculous! </p> <p><a href="mailto:helpmemovesoon@gmail.com">helpmemovesoon@gmail.com</a> </p>