What’s Hot: Don’t let the bedbugs bite

CHICAGO —In addition to sunblock and the trial-sized shampoo and conditioner, retailers can add bedbug spray to the list of “must haves” they’ll be offering consumers who travel.

Bedbugs are making a comeback, and have been increasingly turning up in hotels across the country. In a survey of 700 mid-priced hotels, 25% were infested. The parasites also are finding their way to dorm rooms.

Most active during the warm months of the peak travel season, from April to October, bedbugs can hitch a ride in luggage and infest a traveler’s home, said Bruce Brenner, COO of RMB Group, the manufacturer of Rest Easy bedbug spray.

Rest Easy, an all-natural spray made from essential oils, can keep the bugs at bay. The spray, which can be used on bedding, luggage and furniture, contains no pesticides or chemicals, but is effective in keeping bedbugs from hitching a ride home with travelers.

The spray is available in 2-oz. twin packs for a suggested $6.99 retail, and a 16-oz. trigger spray, which retails for $9.99. A 24-unit counter display is available for the 2-oz. twin packs, and Brenner said the company will work with retailers on in-and-out merchandising units.