Bites in the Night!
What to Do If You Have Bed Bugs: A Quick Guide
Discovering bed bugs in your home can feel overwhelming, but taking immediate and thoughtful action can prevent them from spreading further. Here’s a step-by-step guide to address the issue effectively:
Confirm the Infestation: Before taking any steps, ensure that the pests are indeed bed bugs.
Signs include:
Small, rust-colored stains on bedding (from crushed bugs or feces).
Itchy bite marks in a line or cluster on your skin.
Sightings of tiny, flat, brownish bugs hiding in mattress seams, furniture cracks, or behind wall hangings.
Contain and Stop the Spread
Quarantine the Room: Avoid moving items like bedding or furniture to other areas, as bed bugs hitchhike easily.
Wash and Heat Treat: Immediately wash all linens, clothes, and other washable fabrics from the affected room in hot water, then dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes.
Seal Non-Washables: Place non-washable items (e.g., books, shoes) in sealed plastic bags. Consider freezing them for several days to kill any bugs or eggs.
Deep Clean and Inspect
Vacuum Thoroughly: Use a vacuum cleaner with a crevice tool to clean mattress seams, baseboards, carpets, and furniture. Dispose of the vacuum bag in a sealed plastic bag immediately after.
Inspect and Declutter: Remove clutter from the area to eliminate hiding spots. Check seams, cracks, and crevices in furniture and walls.
Use Targeted Treatments
DIY Treatments: Use bed bug sprays or powders labeled as effective against bed bugs. Ensure you follow the instructions carefully and focus on infested areas.
Professional Help: Severe infestations may require licensed pest control services. Professionals can apply heat treatments or specialized pesticides to eliminate bed bugs at all life stages.
Prevent Reinfestation
Use Mattress Covers: Encase mattresses and box springs in protective, bed bug-proof covers.
Inspect Regularly: Check beds especially in the corners of the mattress and also look at furniture. Be careful with luggage and washcloths immediately after travel.
Reduce Travel Risks: Inspect hotel rooms before unpacking, and keep luggage off beds or floors. Consider natural bed bug repellent spray when traveling.
Stay Calm and Be Persistent! Eliminating bed bugs can take time and effort. By addressing the problem promptly and thoroughly, you can reclaim your space and sleep peacefully again.
Videos of bed bugs provided by Bill Carlson of Nature’s Innovation, Inc. https://bedbugstore.com/