We recently visited a home that had a bed bug infestation. Unfortunately, two pest control companies that visited prior to the Defense Pest Control team said the home was pest free. Our technician was able to locate bed bugs within seconds of entering the room. In light of that, we wanted to discuss bed bugs further. Signs to look out for, how we treat them, and steps you can take before your appointment. Let’s dive in.
Signs of Bed Bugs
The saying “Don’t let the bed bugs bite” is sound advice! Bed bug bites form red and itchy welts on exposed skin that often appear in lines or clusters. While medical intervention is typically not needed, it will be required if there is an allergic reaction. If you are noticing this pattern of bite, look around your bedroom or area of suspected activity closely. Bed bugs love to hide in dark, tight cracks and crevices and are particularly fond of box springs, mattresses, and headboards. They can also be found in upholstery, carpet edges, and even electrical outlets.
During your inspection, you might notice several different things. This can include blood spots on bedding, fecal spots, and small white eggs. Live bed bugs are roughly an apple seed in size and are flat and oval with a reddish brown hue. In severe infestations, a musty and sweet odor often permeates the air. See any of these signs? Call us immediately!
Before Treatment
Prior to your treatment, we provide a detailed checklist of chores to complete for a successful treatment the first time around. Your checklist will include laundering clothing and bedding on high heat, decluttering the area being treated, vacuuming thoroughly, and moving your furniture away from the walls. Remember, bed bugs like to hide in carpet and floorboard lining! These steps will allow us to access the area fully to treat the infestation.
How We Treat
If the situation calls for it, we will treat bed bugs with heat. For example, if you need the room back that day, the infestation expands throughout a home, or a customer prefers a non-chemical option. However, conventional chemical treatment is our primary approach. We use targeted, EPA-registered products, and when used properly, they will be effective over all bed bug life cycles. Not only that, but they provide residual protection even after your treatment.
The treatment methods we recommend come after careful consideration of both the infestation and the environment, and these inspections are free of charge. Before your appointment, we will walk you through the entire process with clear directions on timing and re-entry, housekeeping tasks to complete, and preventative methods to keep bed bugs at bay.
If you notice any signs of a bed bug infestation, the best thing you can do is call us! Our treatments are fast acting and effective so you can enjoy your home once more.
Think you might have bed bugs? Get a free quote or call/text us at (440) 542-2000 for a same-day inspection.