With recent news that bed bugs have overrun Paris, France, it's worth thinking about prevention in your own home. Bed bugs are some of the most common pests in the world, including here in Southern California. So preventing an infestation before it happens will save you lots of trouble- and money!
Bed bugs have become a growing concern in homes, hotels, and even public transportation. About 20% of US homes and hotels deal with a bed bug problem each year.
Bed bugs are nocturnal and feed on human and animal blood, usually while the victims are sleeping. While their bites may not be painful because of the anesthetic they inject, they can lead to itching, redness, and swelling.
Do Bed Bugs Carry Any Diseases?
Bed bugs themselves do not transmit diseases, but their presence can lead to some health risks. For instance, loss of sleep and itchiness are the two most prominent signals that you may have bed bugs. Additionally, excessive scratching can lead to secondary infections.
The Challenge of Bed Bug Removal
Bed bugs are notoriously resilient and can be challenging to eliminate on your own. Being the size of an apple seed, you can imagine they're difficult to locate. Furthermore, they can lay eggs that may hatch up to two weeks later.
Common Hiding Places of Bed Bugs
Bed Bugs are adept at hiding in cracks, crevices, and even electronics. Their common hiding places in homes include:
Mattresses and box springs: Bed bugs are often found in the seams and piping of mattresses and box springs. They can also hide in the cracks and crevices of the bed frame and headboard.
Furniture: Bed bugs can also hide in the seams and cushions of furniture, such as couches, chairs, and recliners. You can also find them in the folds of curtains and drapes.
Other hiding places: Bed bugs can hide in other places around a home, such as behind wallpaper, in electrical outlets, and in the bindings of books.
What To Do If You're Bitten by Bed Bugs
If bed bugs bite you, clean the bites to prevent any skin infection. If itching persists then you can apply a mild steroid cream.
Bed bugs typically bite in clusters and people can mistake them for bites from other bugs.
Preventing Bed Bug Infestations
While bed bug infestations can be incredibly frustrating, there are measures you can take to reduce the risk of encountering these pests:
Inspect Your Luggage and Belongings
If you've just traveled, you should carefully inspect your luggage and personal belongings for any signs of bed bugs. Pay close attention to seams, folds, and pockets.
Hot Wash and High Heat Dry
Wash your clothes and bedding in hot water, at least 122 degrees Fahrenheit, and dry them on high heat. This temperature effectively kills any bed bugs and their eggs that may be present.
Regular Vacuuming
Regularly vacuuming your home is a crucial preventive measure. Pay special attention to cracks, crevices, and any potential hiding spots for bed bugs.
Exercise Caution with Used Furniture
Be wary of buying used furniture, especially upholstered items, as they can be potential hiding places for bed bugs.
Professional Intervention
If you find bed bugs anywhere in your home, we recommend that you do not try to handle them yourself. Instead, contact a pest control company immediately- chances are there's more to be found.
Conclusion
Getting rid of bed bugs requires a systematic and thorough approach. If you suspect a bed bug infestation, you need to seek professional help promptly. A bed bug exterminator like Pest Assassin has the knowledge and experience needed to effectively address a bed bug infestation.