Is it okay to buy 2nd hand couch/sofa from Craigslist?

Posted by admin on July 8th, 2011

I am moving to a new unfurnished apartment in Northern Calif. and wanted reclining chairs/couches/loveseats along with coffee table/end tables/dining set and was exploring Craigslist. I liked more than a couple of each but then was reminded of harrowing times I had with bed bugs in AZ when I was in school.

Knowing this and after experienced bed bugs, I wanted to ask if I could thoroughly examine the items I intend to buy to look for blood/fecal matter of these nasty bugs? Some posts on craigslist sell items for higher cost which makes me believe these are free from bed bugs but I don't want to end up spending hundreds later on pest control, new furniture besides sleepless nights and pain. Brand new couches/reclining loveseats are double the rate (sometimes thrice as much).

If beds/mattresses/couches/loveseats are a direct thread, I wanted to know if I can safely buy nightstands, dressers, tables (dining sets, coffee table/end tables) safely or do these also have an equal chance of being infected with bed bugs?