For those without a washer and dryer at home, the laundromat is a lifeline. But while you’re there to clean your clothes, you might unknowingly pick up an unwanted guest—bed bugs. Here’s how to stay vigilant and keep your laundry pest-free.
How Bed Bugs End Up in Laundromats
It might seem surprising, but laundromats can be a hotspot for bed bugs. These pests often hitch a ride on clothes, linens, or bags, making their way into public spaces like laundromats.
While a hot wash will kill bed bugs, cold-water cycles won’t, allowing them to survive and potentially spread. Once inside, they can crawl onto surfaces like baskets, countertops, or the floor, leaving you at risk of taking them home with your clean laundry.
Tips to Keep Your Laundry Bed Bug-Free
Inspect Surfaces Before You Use Them
Before tossing your laundry into a machine or setting it down, take a moment to check the area. Look for signs of bed bugs, like tiny black specks (their droppings) or shed skins, inside washers, dryers, and folding tables. If you’re unsure about a surface, avoid placing your clothes there.
Use High Heat Settings
Whenever possible, wash your clothes in the hottest water they can handle. High heat kills bed bugs and their eggs. After washing, make sure to dry your items on a high-heat setting as well. For delicate items that can’t handle high heat, consider hand washing them at home or taking them to a dry cleaner.
Bring Separate Laundry Baskets
Use two laundry baskets: one for your dirty clothes and one for the clean ones. This helps prevent any bugs from transferring back to your freshly laundered items. Opt for washable or foldable baskets that you can clean thoroughly after each trip.
Be Careful with Your Belongings
While waiting for your laundry, keep personal items like jackets, bags, or purses off the floor and seating areas. Use hooks if they’re available or keep your items with you. Bed bugs are mobile and can easily latch onto unattended belongings.
By staying alert and taking a few simple precautions, you can drastically reduce the chances of bringing home bed bugs from your next trip to the laundromat. A little extra care goes a long way in keeping your home—and your laundry—clean and bug-free.
By staying alert and taking a few simple precautions, you can drastically reduce the chances of bringing home bed bugs from your next trip to the laundromat. A little extra care goes a long way in keeping your home—and your laundry—clean and bug-free.
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