Bed bug infestations have become increasingly common in homes, hotels, and public spaces. They’re not just a nuisance but can also pose health risks if left untreated. That’s why you need to identify the signs of an infestation and take quick action for bed bugs pest management. We’ll show you how to spot the presence of bed bugs and effective methods for extermination to protect your family from sleepless nights.
What Do Bed Bugs Look Like?
Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on human and animal blood. They’re flat, oval-shaped, and the size of apple seeds. Despite their small size, these pests can be a big problem in your home.
Bed bugs are mostly active at night, and their bites can cause red, itchy welts on the skin. But since some people react differently to the bites, it’s sometimes difficult to identify an infestation solely based on bites.
Where Do Bed Bugs Hide?
Mattresses and box springs are the bug’s common hiding space, but you’ll also find them around:
- Furniture: Sofas, chairs, and picture frames can harbor these tiny tenants, especially in cracks and crevices.
- Clutter: Piles of clothes, shoes, and boxes provide ideal hiding spots and make it easier for them to spread.
- Luggage: Be wary of bringing bed bugs home from travel or picking them up from second-hand furniture.
Can Bed Bugs Make You Sick?
No, bed bugs aren’t known to transmit diseases directly. But their bites can cause itching, redness, and discomfort. Scratching these bites may lead to secondary skin infections, and the psychological impact of a bed bug infestation is stress and anxiety, which affect one’s overall well-being.
DIY Bed Bug Treatments
Dealing with bed bugs is tricky, but with the right approach, you can handle them on your own. These tips will help you with effective bed bugs pest management at home:
- Seal the infested items (mattresses, bedding, pillows) in airtight plastic bags to prevent the bed bugs from spreading.
- Wash all washable clothes and bedding in hot water (at least 140°F/60°C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Deploy your trusty vacuum cleaner and attack every nook and cranny where bed bugs might be hiding.
- Blast infested areas (mattress seams, furniture crevices) with a clothes steamer, ensuring the steam reaches at least 140°F/60°C for several minutes.
- Seal infested items like pillows or plush toys in airtight plastic bags and freeze them for at least 4 days at temperatures below 0°F/-18°C.
- Use diatomaceous earth, a natural powder that dehydrates and kills bed bugs by puncturing their exoskeletons.
- Use essential oils like lavender and tea tree oil as they can kill bed bugs in small numbers.
When to Call a Professional
Bed bugs can still hide in hard-to-reach places so if you suspect hidden infestations, professionals can conduct thorough inspections. Just ensure the pest control service is licensed and has certified technicians. Look for a company with experience in handling bed bug infestations and read reviews and testimonials to gauge the satisfaction of previous clients.
Call for Help Today
Don’t wait for the infestation to spread for you to call an exterminator because if you’ve noticed these bugs in your home, then they’re probably spread out already. You need professional bed bugs pest management to carefully inspect the extent of your infestation and recommend the best course of action to get your home bug-free.