Tiny bed bugs and wingless insects consume the blood of both humans and animals. They are most active at night and drawn to the heat and carbon dioxide we exhale while we sleep. Bed bugs don’t transmit diseases, yet their bites can be distressing and cause discomfort. Early detection is essential to avoid a full-blown infestation, which can be challenging and expensive.
Signs of Bed Bug Infestations
Bed bugs are elusive pests that can be difficult to detect. However, by being aware of these signs, such as Bed Bug Bites, Bloodstains, Fecal Matter, and Bed Bug Eggs, we can notice and address bed bug infestations on time.
A. Bed Bug Bites
Bed bug bites are often the first sign of an infestation. They typically appear as small, red, itchy bumps in a line or cluster and may take a few days to appear.
B. Bloodstains
Bed bugs feed on blood, leaving small bloodstains on bedding or clothing. Bed bugs may leave red or brown stains around their active areas.
C. Fecal Matter
Bed bugs also leave behind fecal matter, which can appear as small, dark spots on bedding, furniture, or walls. Bed bugs often hide in certain areas and may leave behind small smears or ink-like stains near their hiding places.
D. Bed Bug Eggs
Bed bug eggs are small, white, or translucent ovals typically found in crevices or cracks around the home. They are often difficult to spot but can be a telltale sign of an infestation.
E. Bed bug shells
As bed bugs mature, they shed their skins, leaving behind yellowish-brown surfaces. You can commonly find these shells in areas where bed bugs tend to hide, such as under mattresses or behind baseboards.
F. Unusual odor
A strong, sweet, musty odor may indicate a severe bed bug infestation. The scent glands on the bodies of bed bugs cause this odor, which becomes more noticeable in heavily infested areas.
Inspecting for Bed Bugs
A. To inspect for bed bugs, start by thoroughly examining your bedding, including your sheets, pillows, and mattress. Look for bloodstains, fecal matter, and shells. Next, check the seams and folds of your mattress and any cracks or crevices in your bed frame or headboard. Bed bugs may also hide in nearby furniture, so check dressers, nightstands, and other nearby items.
B. Common hiding places for bed bugs are excellent hiders and can be found in a variety of places, including
- Small openings and gaps in walls, floors, and furniture.
- Electrical outlets and switch plates
- Baseboards and molding
- Carpeting and rugs
- Upholstered furniture and curtains
- Luggage and clothing
How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs
A. Professional Treatment
If you are dealing with sizable or ongoing bed bug infestations in Chicago, IL, you should seek assistance from a professional pest control company. Here are some of the professional treatments they may offer:
a. Heat Treatment
Heat treatment refers to elevating the temperature in your home or business to the point that it is deadly for bed bugs. This method can be effective, but it requires special equipment and expertise.
b. Insecticide Treatment
You can apply insecticides to areas where bed bugs are present to kill them. A professional pest control company can use specialized equipment and methods to apply insecticides safely and effectively.
c. Fumigation
Fumigation involves sealing off your home or business and using gas to kill bed bugs. This method is usually only used in extreme cases, requiring vacating the premises for several days.
d. Monitoring and Follow-Up
A professional pest control company can provide monitoring and follow-up services to ensure they have eliminated bed bug infestation. They may use traps or other methods to monitor for any remaining bed bugs and provide additional treatment.
B. DIY Treatment
If you prefer to try and get rid of bed bugs, try a few DIY treatments. These include:
a. Vacuuming
Vacuuming can help remove bed bugs and their eggs from bedding, furniture, and floors. Make sure to thoroughly vacuum and then dispose of the contents of the vacuum bag in a sealed bag outside.
b. Washing and Drying
Washing and drying bedding and clothing on high heat can help kill bed bugs and their eggs. Be sure to dry items on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
c. Encasements
Bed bug-proof encasements for mattresses and box springs can help trap any remaining bed bugs and prevent them from spreading.
d. Diatomaceous Earth
A natural substance called diatomaceous earth can aid in exterminating bed bugs. Sprinkle it around areas where bed bugs are active, and vacuum it up after a few days.
Bed Bug Infestation: Detect, Treat, Prevent!
All in all, bed bug infestations can be a nightmare but can be prevented and treated with the proper knowledge and tools. By knowing the telltale signs of bed bugs and how to identify and eliminate them, you can keep your home or business bed bug-free.
In addition, it’s important to note that professional treatment can be expensive, and it may take multiple treatments to eliminate the infestation. However, it can be a necessary step in severe cases of bed bug infestations. Remember to take preventive measures, such as inspecting used furniture and regularly cleaning and vacuuming your home, to reduce the risk of future infestations.