Bed bugs are making a comeback.
There are a number of factors contributing to a growing population of these pests in the United States. The realization of the dangers associated with DDT and other chemical pesticides being one of them.
Luckily, bed bug pest control can still be accomplished with a variety of other methods. Safer chemical pesticides and heat treatments are some of the most effective ways to rid your home of bed bugs.
Knowledge is power when it comes to preventing and treating bed bug infestations. Understanding how bed bugs operate and what to look for can help you prevent an infestation later.
Let’s go over some common bed bug questions so that you can be armed with facts and ready to tackle any bed bugs that try to enter your home.
1. Where Do Bed Bugs Live?
While recent studies seem to show that bed bugs appear more during warmer months, bed bugs can appear anywhere there are people to feed on. Bed bugs live in crevices and hiding spots near where they are feeding at night. This is why you may find bed bugs throughout your bedroom, not just in your bed.
It is common to have them appear in your home after a trip away or after having guests stay with you. Keeping your home clean can help you identify an infestation sooner, bed bugs are just as happy in clean or dirty homes.
2. How Do You Know if You Have Bed Bugs?
The first sign of a bed bug infestation is small bites appearing on your skin overnight. If you suspect your bites are from bed bugs, you can use a flashlight to check your mattress and other soft materials in your bedroom.
Bed bugs may leave behind black spots of excrement or skin casings. You may also find crushed bed bugs or live ones that are translucent or red in color. The color of bed bugs changes depending on how recently they have fed.
3. Can Bed Bugs Make You Sick?
Bed bugs are not known to spread diseases or other illnesses like other pests. Their bites can cause itchy welts that can become infected if scratched at or not taken care of properly.
4. How to Prevent Bed Bugs at Home?
Preventing bed bugs in your home can start with simple methods. Mattress covers designed to keep bed bugs out can prevent you from having to throw out your bed if they find their way inside.
It also helps to clean and inspect frequently. Clean and inspect new items when they are brought into your home. Bed bug pest control starts with the actions you take at home.
5. Do Bed Bugs Only Live in Beds?
Bed bugs can live anywhere they can squish into. They prefer dark enclosed spaces, like the corner of your mattress. They can also hide in fabric headboards or the nooks and crannies in wood trim or baseboards.
6. What Do Bed Bug Bites Look Like?
Bed bug bites are small, raised bites, usually in a pattern across your skin. They may or may not be itchy or look like a rash. Bed bugs usually will leave a distinct pattern of bites as they move across your skin.
Everyone has a different reaction to bed bugs. Some people get itchy welts and others have barely noticeable marks.
7. How Do You Know If Your Hotel Room has Bed Bugs?
If you are staying in a hotel or other overnight accommodation, it’s best to do your own bed bug inspection before sleeping there. When you enter, put luggage in the tub first.
Inspect the bedding, mattress, dressers, and even behind picture frames and art.
If you see evidence of bed bugs leave the room and notify staff right away.
Even if you didn’t see bed bugs while there when you return home it’s best to inspect your luggage and wash your used clothes right away.
8. How Long Do Bed Bugs Live?
Without intervention, the bed bug lifespan can last years. Bed bugs can live for a long time compared to other bugs.
With no blood meals, bed bugs can live up to a year or longer if they are older. Younger bed bugs can live for over three months without feeding.
9. What Kills Bed Bugs?
The most common method for getting rid of almost any type of infestation is using a combination of methods. Pesticides can be used to treat smaller infestations and kill hatched bed bugs. Bed bug eggs are a little harder to get rid of.
Excessive heat is another tool that is used to target large infestations and eggs. Bed bugs cannot survive over 120 degrees Fahrenheit, especially for extended periods of time.
10. How to Treat a Bed Bug Infestation?
The first step to treating a bed bug infestation is to confirm you have bed bugs. After identifying you have pests it’s best to call a professional.
They can help identify the exact type of bug you have. They can also determine the level of infestation and the recommended treatment methods.
You can take steps while you wait for the bed bug pest control professional including, using your dryer to kill bugs on sheets or other bedding. If you use a vacuum on large groups, make sure to remove the bag and seal it up before throwing it away.
Contact a Bed Bug Pest Control Professional for More
If you suspect you may have a bed bug infestation, you may have more questions than answers. The best way to ease your mind and rid your home of pests for good is to speak with a professional. They can help you identify your type of infestation and the best way to get rid of them.
Are you not having any luck with bed bugs? We can get rid of your pest problem for you. Learn more about our general preventative residential pest control services or request a quote for your specific problem here. Together, we will eliminate bed bugs once and for all. Did you know Synergy² is a full-service pest company specializing in difficult-to-treat pest problems such as ants, mice, roaches and termites?
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