Schools don’t usually have bed bug infestations, but bed bugs can ride in on one student’s backpack or jacket and hop onto another’s. If you think your child picked some up, act fast and calmly. A few simple habits can keep them from spreading into your home.
Step 1: Let the school know
Tell the teacher or front office. They can check the classroom and watch for signs, and other families may be dealing with the same thing.
Step 2: Set up a drop zone at the door
When your child gets home:
- Leave the backpack and shoes in the garage or another spot away from bedrooms.
- Change into a fresh set of clothes right away.
- Put the school clothes straight into the dryer on high heat.
Step 3: Dry anything that went to school
Blankets, jackets, hoodies, and stuffed animals that went to school, a sleepover, or camp should go into the dryer on high heat as soon as they come home.
Step 4: Avoid the spot where it happened
If your child has an idea where the bugs came from, like a certain fabric chair, reading corner, or bus seat, have them stay away from it until the school deals with it.
Step 5: Check your child’s room
Look along the mattress seams, the headboard, and any chairs where your child sits for long periods. Watch for new bites over the next few weeks. See 7 Early Signs of Bed Bugs for what to look for.
Don’t panic, and don’t blame
Bed bugs have nothing to do with how clean your home or your child is. Keep it low-key so your child doesn’t feel embarrassed at school.
Seeing signs at home? Book an inspection. Inspections are $49–$99, depending on home size and location.
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