Adult bed bugs have a reddish-brown, oval-shaped body that is approximately ¼ inch long. These nocturnal parasites that prefer to feed on the blood of humans that are asleep, hence their namesake. Once inside a home, bed bugs lay eggs and multiply and will usually spread further from there.
How Do Bed Bugs Enter Homes?
There is a common misconception that bed bugs are attracted to properties that are dirty and unsanitary. The truth is that these pests have no such preference; rather, they are drawn to areas where their human food sources reside, regardless of hygiene.
Bed bugs are drifters that most commonly enter a home within bags, suitcases, clothes, or other belongings when a person encounters them in some public place. Those who are traveling may encounter them in hotel rooms, group transportation settings, dormitories, or elsewhere.
Here, the insect can simply climb into a suitcase or onto clothes and be brought home with you. Another potential source of transfer could occur through acquiring used furniture or appliances that contain bed bugs.
Bed Bug Activity Within A Home
When indoors, bed bugs typically hide in areas close to where people sleep, like mattresses, baseboard crevices, upholstered furniture, and more. They are not able to fly or jump but can crawl a few feet per minute across most surfaces.
When the bed bugs bite, they create a small slit in the skin to access blood for several minutes before retreating to their hideaway. People who are bitten by bed bugs may notice small red marks on their skin that may be itchy or otherwise irritating. Fortunately, these pests are considered more of a nuisance than a dangerous health risk to humans.
If you do not see bed bugs themselves, you will likely find evidence of their existence in other ways. Look for spots or smears of blood on mattresses, pillowcases, and bedding sheets. They also leave excrement that appears as dark spots and often emits a foul odor.
Best Methods For Preventing Bed Bugs
- When staying in a hotel room, look carefully for any signs of bed bugs and place luggage and clothing on elevated hard surfaces
- Be sure to closely inspect clothing and luggage when arriving home from traveling
- Clothing and bedding should be washed and machine dried on a heated setting
- Exercise caution before bringing second-hand furniture into the home
- Consider fitting your mattress and box spring with pest-proof covers
- Regularly vacuum carpets, particularly carpets in the bedroom
Do I Need A Professional Pest Controller?
Many homeowners are unaware that bed bugs are extremely resilient. These infestations are not likely to be removed completely by trying do-it-yourself home remedies; therefore, you must consult with an experienced pest control professional.
Bed Bug Extermination Experts In Sacramento
Our team of seasoned bed bug treatment specialists will thoroughly inspect your home to confirm the existence of these unwelcome visitors and recommend the best elimination strategies. These options include steam treatment, usage of heat chambers, fumigation, and others that will eradicate bed bugs and their eggs.
We understand the importance of protecting the local Sacramento environment and use many of the latest organic treatment options that are eco-friendly. Also, our treatment plans are safe for you and your family.
Neighborly Pest Management is a local company that has proudly been providing effective pest extermination solutions for property owners in Sacramento for many years. Contact us today for a complimentary home inspection and remember to ask about our year-round home pest control plans.