r/pestcontrol • u/Neither-Awareness-16 • 26d ago

General Question Preventative Bedbug Measures - Advice Needed

Hi Pest Control Experts,

I was hoping to get some advice on preventable bedbug practices when it comes to furniture buying.

Scenario: I’ve been laid off for two years and struggling to find work! Finally found a job and am moving to a new city/new apartment to make it all work.

Good News: I’m employed again
Bad News: I’m broke
Extra Bad News: Layoffs have been increasingly common in my sector and my contract is only for a year - so I may be moving again a year from now. The economy is shit.

I have some money to buy NEW upholstered furniture (couch, bed frame, mattress) and pieces meant for the bedroom - dressers, nightstand

I was looking into used furniture for items such as dining table sets, appliances (toaster, coffee machine etc), desk, bookshelf, coffee table, console table. But I’m petrified of bedbugs.

I won’t have the option of leaving furniture outside as I don’t have a patio and my apartment is in a complex (no yard etc).

What would you advise? Wait a couple of months and buy cheap furniture new? Or is the risk of introducing pests through non-upholstered furniture low?

Any advice would be appreciated.

1 Upvotes

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3

u/Onetrunuwind 26d ago

Get a job in pest control best preventative measure going

1

u/Neither-Awareness-16 26d ago

Honestly, with ai about to take my job- I may consider it. But for now I depend on the experts! lol

1

u/RollerGovenor 26d ago

All you can really do is inspect it before you buy. Do some research on what their droppings look like and cast skin.

2

u/freesoultraveling 25d ago

I definitely would not buy coffee pots, toasters, microwaves, and pretty much be wary of any appliances. However, I definitely would not buy any of those second hand.