She Strengthens

Bedbug Alert: Know the Enemy and Win the Battle

Are you tired of those pesky bedbugs ruining your sleep and peace of mind? It’s time to take action and kick them out of your home for good! But first, let’s get to know the enemy.

What Do Bedbugs Look Like?

These tiny terrors are about 1/4 inch long, with six legs and a flat, oval-shaped body that allows them to move quickly and hide in tight spaces. They can vary in color from white to brown, and after feeding, they turn a reddish hue. Bedbugs don’t have wings, so they can’t fly, but they can survive for months without feeding.

How Do Bedbugs Bite?

Bedbugs feed on blood, and they’re most active at night. Their bites can cause varying reactions, from small mosquito-like bites to large, itchy welts. The good news is that bedbugs aren’t known to transmit diseases.

How Do You Get Bedbugs?

Bedbugs can hitch a ride into your home on infested items like clothes, luggage, secondhand furniture, or pet carriers. They can also spread from neighboring rooms or apartments. Once inside, they can quickly reproduce and take over your space.

Signs of Bedbug Infestation

If you suspect you have bedbugs, look out for these common signs:

• Actual bedbugs or eggs
• Shed bug skin or eggshells
• Reddish stains on your mattress
• Bedbug bites on your body
• Tiny dark spots (bedbug poop)

Where to Look for Bedbugs

Bedbugs love to hide in small, dark spaces, so make sure to check:

• Near the edges of your mattress and box spring
• Between furniture cushions and joints
• In the cracks of your bed frame or headboard
• Inside electrical outlets
• Under hanging wall decor
• In or around baseboards
• Under loose wallpaper or in seams and cracks

Bedbug Treatment and Elimination

To get rid of bedbugs, follow these steps:

1. Wash and Dry: Wash bedding and clothes in hot water (at least 115°F) for 30 minutes, then dry on high heat for another 30 minutes.
2. Remove and Bag: Bag infested items that can’t be washed, seal tightly, and leave outside or in a garage for several months.
3. Disassemble and Clean: Take apart furniture to clean all cracks and crevices.
4. Vacuum, Scrub, and Steam: Vacuum and scrub all surfaces, then steam clean to kill bedbugs.
5. Cover Your Mattress: Use a mattress cover to keep bedbugs out.
6. Seal Up Cracks: Caulk or seal any cracks or gaps in walls or baseboards.
7. Use Chemicals: Use EPA-registered insecticides targeted for bedbugs, but always follow instructions and take necessary precautions.

Monitor and Prevent

To prevent bedbugs from coming back, monitor infested areas weekly and use bedbug interceptors to catch any remaining bugs. Continue monitoring for up to 1 year to ensure complete elimination.

When to Call in the Pros

If you’ve tried everything and still can’t get rid of bedbugs, it’s time to call a licensed exterminator. They have access to powerful chemicals and treatments that can help eliminate bedbugs for good.

Prevention Tips

To keep bedbugs at bay, remember to:

• Inspect hotel rooms and used furniture before bringing them home
• Keep your home clutter-free and clean regularly
• Use mattress and box spring protectors
• Seal up cracks and crevices

By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can win the battle against bedbugs and enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep once again.