Preventing bites

• Cover up. Because bedbugs don't tend to burrow under clothing, you may be able to avoid bites by wearing pajamas that cover as much skin as possible.
• Bug spray. Insect repellents designed to protect against mosquitoes or ticks aren't very effective against bedbugs.
• Mosquito netting. Bed nets impregnated with the pesticide permethrin may help protect sleepers against bedbug bites. However, this practice may be helping bedbugs develop resistance to this pesticide.

Preventing infestations

• Secondhand items. Inspect used bedding items and upholstered furniture carefully before bringing them into your home.
• Hotel precautions. Check mattress seams for bedbug excrement and place your luggage on tables or dressers instead of on the floor.
• Birds and bats. Eliminate any neighboring bird and bat habitats that may serve as a refuge for bedbugs.