New NYC Mattress Disposal Rule To Curb Bed Bugs

Due to an increase in travel and the popularity of second hand goods bed bugs are fast traveling around the States. They can’t fly but the tiny blood sucking bugs will crawl into luggage or clothing. Bed bugs are generally nocturnal and tend to live in bedding, such as mattresses and box springs, hiding in their crevices until they are ready to feed. The infograph featured below from NJ.com illustrates which US cities are worst affected.

In an effort to stop the bugs from spreading, beginning December 3rd, 2010, the New York City Department of Sanitation will require all City residents to fully encase within a sealed plastic bag all mattresses or box springs being discarded for DSNY collection.

Under the new rule, failure to place a mattress or box spring out in a proper bag can result in a $100 fine. The Department will delay enforcing the new set-out rule for 30 days, followed by full enforcement beginning January 3rd, 2011.

“There has been a rise in bed bug-related complaints within the City, and bedding is the prime nesting place for most bed bugs,” said Sanitation Commissioner John J. Doherty.  “With this new rule, and thanks to the support of Councilmember Gale Brewer, we will safeguard our workers and help to mitigate the spread of bed bugs throughout the City.  We also suggest that the plastic mattress bags be placed around the bedding before it is removed from the room out to the curb to further limit bed bugs from infesting other parts of the home or apartment.”

Plastic bags to contain the bedding are available at department stores, home improvement centers, at other home supply businesses, and online, at a modest cost. Bedding stores also provide removal options with purchases.

If you have concerns schedule a bed bug inspection for a piece of mind. Our professionally trained team, which includes our bed bug dogs, can detect bed bugs in minutes.