7 Things To Do When You Have Bed Bugs at Home

Bed bugs have become a common problem, sneaking into our homes from hotels, public places, or even secondhand furniture. These resilient creatures have become experts at hitchhiking, and they'll gladly catch a ride on your luggage, clothing, or used furniture to move in with you.

Bed bug bites can make us itch like crazy! They leave red bumps on our skin, leading to skin infections if we scratch too much. Although they don't spread diseases, their presence can trigger allergies and worsen respiratory issues in some people. This comprehensive guide explores seven practical steps to handle bed bugs and maintain a peaceful living environment.

Identifying the Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation

Meet the enemy! Adult bed bugs are tiny and reddish-brown with flat bodies. They're like little masters of hide-and-seek, expertly concealing themselves in cracks, crevices, and folds.

Common signs of bed bug infestation:

• Bed Bug Bites

Bed bug bites can be itchy and appear in clusters on your skin. They often resemble small red welts and may become inflamed with scratching.

•  Blood Stains on Bedding

They might leave minor blood stains on your sheets or pillowcases after feeding.

• Fecal Spots

Look for tiny black or brown spots on your bedding or nearby surfaces. These spots are bed bug excrement and can indicate an infestation.

If you suspect bed bugs are present, it's essential to start the identification process early to prevent their numbers from multiplying.

Performing a Thorough Inspection of Your Home 

Finding bed bugs early can save you a lot of trouble! Regular inspections and quick action are crucial to stop the problem from worsening. Grab a flashlight and magnifying glass, and let's start our detective work! Check these areas:

• Mattresses and Box Springs

Bed bugs hide in the seams, folds, and tufts of mattresses and box springs.

• Furniture

Inspect the nooks and crannies of your sofas, chairs, and dressers, as bed bugs can hide in upholstered furniture.

• Baseboards and Wall Outlets

Bed bugs can squeeze into tiny cracks along baseboards and hide behind electrical outlets.

• Cracks and Crevices

Carefully inspect gaps in wooden furniture, floorboards, and walls, as these are prime hiding spots for bed bugs.

The flashlight helps you see in dark spots, while the magnifying glass makes it easier to spot tiny bed bugs and eggs. Don't rush through the inspection; take your time to sift through each potential hiding spot.

If you're unsure or the infestation seems overwhelming, consider using bed bug detector kits or calling a professional bed bug company in Loganville, PA, for help.

Creating a Clean Environment

Bed bugs love clutter! Clearing it out makes their hiding spots disappear, making it harder for them to avoid detection. Organize your stuff and get rid of things you don't need. A neat home means fewer places for bed bugs to hide, making it easier for you to spot and deal with any lingering pests.

Use a vacuum cleaner with strong suction and a hose attachment to access hard-to-reach areas. Vacuum your mattresses, upholstered furniture, baseboards, and other potential hiding spots regularly. 

Empty the vacuum bag or canister immediately after each use, sealing the contents in a plastic bag before disposing of them to prevent any potential bed bugs from escaping.

Washing and Drying Infested Items

When dealing with infested clothing, bedding, and linens, follow these steps:

• Sort

Separate infested items from clean ones to avoid spreading the infestation further.

• Wash

Use hot water and good detergent to kill bed bugs and their eggs. Wash the infested items on the highest temperature setting allowed for the fabric.

• Dry

After washing, transfer the items to the dryer and use the highest heat setting to ensure the bed bugs are eliminated. 

Bed bugs can't survive high temperatures, so washing and drying with hot settings will do the trick. Heat treatment is one of the most effective ways to kill bed bugs and their eggs on infested items. 

Use dryer sheets with solid scents like lavender or peppermint to avoid bed bugs. Essential oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, or neem can also help repel these pesky bugs.

Utilizing Non-Chemical Treatments

If you prefer eco-friendly options or are concerned about chemical pesticides, non-chemical treatments can be effective alternatives. 

• Steam Cleaning

Steam can kill bed bugs on contact and get into their hiding spots. Use a steam cleaner with a nozzle attachment to treat infested areas, including mattresses, furniture, and baseboards.

• Freezing

Expose infested items to sub-zero temperatures to kill bed bugs and their eggs. Placing infested items in sealed plastic bags and leaving them in the freezer for several days can be an effective freezing method.

• Vacuuming

Regular vacuuming can physically remove bed bugs and their eggs from surfaces. Use a vacuum cleaner with strong suction and a hose attachment to access cracks and crevices where bed bugs may be hiding.

When using non-chemical treatments, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and take safety precautions to protect yourself and your family.

Considering Professional Pest Control Services

For significant infestations or persistent problems, getting help from a pro is a smart move. Professional exterminators have the expertise, experience, and specialized equipment to deal with bed bugs effectively.

Professional pest control companies offer different treatments, including heat treatments, fumigation, and insecticides. The cost will depend on the size of the infestation and the chosen method.

Do your research to find a reliable pest control company with experience in dealing with bed bugs. Look for customer reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family.

Preventing Future Infestations

Keep your home clean and tidy to prevent bed bugs from coming back. Regular cleaning and vacuuming can help you detect any potential infestations early on.

Invest in bed bug-proof mattresses and box spring encasements to prevent bed bugs from hiding in these areas. Encasements create a protective barrier, making it harder for bed bugs to access your sleeping space. 

Inspect them thoroughly before bringing in secondhand items to avoid introducing bed bugs into your home. Check all seams, folds, and crevices for signs of bed bug activity.

Deal With Bed Bugs Now, Don't Delay!

Don't delay! Take action now to get rid of bed bugs and enjoy a cozy, bug-free home again. The sooner you start, the easier it will be to eliminate these tiny invaders.

With these steps, you can battle bed bugs and protect your home and loved ones. Remember, early detection and prevention are essential. So roll up your sleeves, follow these easy tips, and let's kick those bed bugs out for good!