Pest infestation is often associated with unsanitary conditions, but bed bugs can affect even the cleanest of households. Bed bugs are tiny, pinhead-sized bed bugs that feed on blood. Although they don’t spread disease, they are considered a public health pest and can cause irritating, itchy bites.
Where do bed bugs come from?
If you have bed bugs at home, they likely hitched a ride into the house. It is possible to pick them up at a hotel or bring them home from someone else without realizing it. Bed bugs can travel from one place to another with clothes, bedding, luggage, and furniture. Office environments are generally unaffected but can act as a transmission hub for bed bugs.
Do I have bed bugs?
Not everyone has a visible reaction to bed bug bites, so you may not even realize you have an infestation first. It is possible for one person in the house to be unresponsive while another has visible marks of bites. If you suspect that there are bed bugs in your home, it is important to get rid of them right away. Check your bed carefully for any signs. Bed bugs can be found in the seams of chairs, in curtains, in the headboard of the bed, and all over the mattress. If you have bed bugs you should be able to see visible signs – if not the bugs themselves, look for stains or discarded bed bug shells.
How do I get rid of these pests?
Once bed bugs are in your home, they can be difficult to remove. Bed bugs can survive for up to a year without feeding, and in order to win the fight against them, an infestation must be completely eliminated. Start by washing all of your bedding and clothing on a high temperature to kill any bugs or eggs. When you buy sealed covers for your mattress, box spring bed and pillows, all insects are trapped and future infestation is prevented. Eliminate bed bug hiding spots by reducing the clutter in your house, and vacuum your carpets frequently to spot any bugs that may have hitchhiked your home.
You may also need to use pesticides to kill any insects that are hiding elsewhere. Before treating any areas of your home, carefully read the directions for any pesticide you have purchased. If you are unsure about the safety of a product or if the infestation persists after treatment, it is best to contact a professional exterminator.
Bed bug infestations can spread quickly … and the more they spread, the harder it is to remove. If you suspect a bed bug infestation, identify the source in your home and take appropriate action to remove it as soon as possible.
