Bed bugs are small, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. Though they are not known to spread disease, they can cause a number of health problems, including skin rashes, allergic reactions, and psychological distress. Bed bugs are most active at night and typically hide in cracks and crevices during the day. They are often found in mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, and headboards. However, they can also be found in other furniture, such as couches and chairs. If you think you may have bed bugs, you might be wondering what you should do next. Do you need to hire a bed bug exterminator? Or can you get rid of them on your own? Let’s discuss this below.
What can cause a bed bug infestation?
There are several potential causes of bed bug infestations, including travel, used furniture, and even guests who unknowingly bring them into your home. Bed bugs are often found in hotels and other places where people sleep, as they are attracted to the warmth and carbon dioxide we emit. They can also be brought into your home on used furniture or luggage, which is why it’s important to inspect anything you buy second-hand before bringing it inside. Once they’re inside, bed bugs are incredibly difficult to eliminate, so it’s important to take precautions to prevent them from entering your home in the first place.
Signs of Bed Bugs
If you suspect that you have bed bugs, it’s important to watch for signs of infestation. A few signs include the following:
#1. Bites
Noticing bites after waking up in the morning is often one of the first signs of bed bug infestation. These insects are attracted to the carbon dioxide we exhale while sleeping, as well as the warmth of our bodies. Bed bug bites usually occur in a line or cluster rather than individually, like mosquito bites. These bumps are usually painless but can be itchy and cause irritation. In some cases, an allergic reaction can occur. They are often found on exposed skin like the face, neck, arms, and hands.
#2. Blood Stains
Bloodstains on your bed sheets, pillowcases, or other fabric may be a sign that bed bugs are present. These stains are usually small and dark in color and are often caused by the bed bugs feeding on their victim’s blood or from being crushed.
#3. Odors
Bed bugs give off a distinct smell (sweet or musty) that has been described as being similar to coriander, raspberries, or even a pile of wet towels. If you notice this musty or sweet smell in your home that doesn’t have an obvious source, it’s a good idea to start looking for other signs of bed bugs.
#4. Eggs and Sheddings
Watch out for the presence of eggs and sheddings. Bed bugs lay their eggs in small clusters, and these clusters can be found on furniture or in cracks and crevices. The eggs are small and white, and they are hard to see with the naked eye. Bed bug sheddings are the exoskeletons that bed bugs shed as they grow. They are also small, translucent, yellowish-brown, and hard to see, but they can be found in areas where bed bugs have been feeding or resting.
#5. Live Bed Bugs
Finally, the most obvious sign: finding live bed bugs. If you see small, reddish-brown insects that are around the size and shape of a flax seed crawling around your bed, it’s most likely a bed bug. Because bed bugs prefer to hide most of the time and usually come out at night in order to feed, they are often extremely hard to spot until the infestation becomes severe.
What should you do if you notice signs of bed bugs?
Call your local pest control professionals! Bed bugs are, unfortunately, a prevalent pest that affects many people. These tiny insects feed on the blood of people, dogs and anything else that is in their vicinity. Although they do not typically carry diseases as mosquitoes do, bed bugs do leave itchy red bumps similar to mosquito bites. These bites will generally be in a line pattern and will go away in a few days. But without adequately dealing with the pest problem, these bed bugs will continue to bite and reproduce. Bed bugs are probably one of the more difficult pests to eliminate and require a much more intense extermination process. Calling an exterminator at the first sign of bed bugs is essential. Once these insects set up a home, they immediately start reproducing and spreading. They can make it into the seats of cars, couches, and any other areas they find suitable for breeding. The best way to prevent the spread of bed bugs is to call an exterminator and have the situation correctly handled immediately.
What does a bed bug treatment plan consist of?
An effective bed bug treatment process typically consists of three steps: inspection, treatment, and prevention. The first step is to thoroughly inspect the affected area for signs of an active infestation. Once the bugs have been located, they can be treated with a variety of methods, including bug bombs, heat treatments, and chemical pesticides. The final step is to prevent future infestations by taking measures such as sealing cracks and crevices, vacuuming regularly, washing bedding in hot water, and continuing pest control treatments. By following these steps, you can effectively get rid of bedbugs and avoid future infestations.
How to Prevent a Bed Bug Infestation
Here are some tips for preventing a bed bug infestation:
– Vacuum regularly and dispose of the vacuum bag immediately afterward.
– Inspect any used furniture before bringing it into your home (look for small dark spots, etc.).
– Keep your bedroom clean and clutter-free.
– Immediately wash and dry any clothing or bedding after traveling.
Following these simple tips can help prevent a bed bug infestation in your home.
Your Local Pest Control Experts
Bed bugs are a growing problem in many parts of the country, including Phoenix AZ. These pests are difficult to control and can cause a great deal of discomfort. If you’re dealing with a bed bug infestation, you need the help of a professional exterminator. Anteater Exterminating is your local bed bug specialist. We offer a variety of bed bug treatments that are designed to get rid of these pests for good. With over 27 years of experience, our team has the experience and knowledge necessary to safely and effectively rid your home of bed bugs. Contact us today to learn more about our bed bug services.