While many pests are more active during the summer months, bed bugs are a bit different. They don’t rely on the seasons to thrive—they rely on us. And during summer travel, moving days, and increased human activity, we often give them more opportunities to spread.
We’ve seen firsthand how summer can become prime time for bed bug movement, especially in environments where people are constantly coming and going—like hotels, apartments, and campus housing.
Here’s what you should know to protect your home, facility, or business this summer.
Bed Bugs Travel With Us
Summer is filled with activity: families travel, students return home or head to new housing, and residents relocate more often. The influx of movement can inadvertently spread bed bugs to new places:
Suitcases, laundry, used furniture, and even shared rides or transit can become sources of transport.
Bed bugs hitchhike with ease and are excellent at hiding in seams, creases, and small cracks.
This makes early detection and awareness critical, especially in high-traffic, people-focused environments.
Where Are Bed Bugs Found Most?
Sprague’s recent data shows that apartments consistently sees the highest number of bed bug sightings. But they also show up in:
- Hotels and motels
- Offices with break rooms or resting areas
- Healthcare campuses
- Assisted living facilities
If your space includes beds, couches, or soft seating where people rest or sleep, it’s worth staying alert.
Signs of a Bed Bug Issue
Bed bugs can be difficult to spot until a population is established. Keep an eye out for these warning signs:
- Small, reddish-brown spots on sheets or upholstery
- Shed skins or exoskeletons in furniture crevices
- Tiny, apple seed-sized insects in mattress seams or behind headboards
- Reports of unexplained bites on skin, often in lines or clusters
If you spot something suspicious, Sprague’s experts can help identify whether it’s truly bed bugs—or something else like bat or swallow bugs, which can look very similar.
What You Can Do to Prevent an Infestation
Prevention and cooperation are key to avoiding a larger problem. Whether you manage a facility or are preparing for travel, here are steps to keep bed bugs at bay:
For Travelers:
- Inspect hotel rooms before settling in—especially mattresses and headboards.
- Keep luggage off beds and floors and store it in bathroom areas when possible.
- Wash and dry clothes on high heat immediately after returning from travel. Store your suitcase outside of your bedroom – like a garage or other area that is unlikely to support bed bugs.
For Property Managers & Tenants:
- Report sightings early. The sooner a potential infestation is identified, the easier it is to manage.
- Declutter living spaces. Fewer hiding spots make inspections and treatment more effective.
- Partner with tenants. Clear communication and cooperation make a huge difference in success rates.
Summer Prevention Starts With Awareness
We often think of summer as the season for mosquitoes and ants, but bed bugs can spread just as rapidly, especially when travel and relocation increase. The good news? With early action, consistent monitoring, and a focus on education, they can be stopped.
We are here to help you stay ahead of any bed bug problem, large or small. If you need support with inspections, identification, or prevention strategies, we’re just a call away.