Q. We recently enjoyed several days with friends at their vacation condo. Now I fear we have bedbugs. Could these critters have traveled home with us in our luggage? How can we verify our suspicions?
A. Bedbugs can indeed hitch a ride in luggage. Unfortunately, this pesky problem can be pricey. A visual examination by an expert can cost up to $200. Trained dogs are very good at detecting bedbugs, but may cost $300 to $600 for an inspection.
An inexpensive bedbug detector can be constructed at home for under $40. You will need some dry ice, a cooler jug to hold it and a plastic pan or dish to catch the bedbugs. Go to PeoplesPharmacy.com and search bedbugs to see the detector in action along with ways to avoid bedbugs when you travel.