Here Are A Few Places To Check When Looking For Bed Bugs
When they aren’t feeding, bed bugs will hide just about anywhere their tiny bodies will fit. Just think about the hiding spots that are around a bed: these pests can stash themselves in the seams and tags of the mattress and box spring, as well as in cracks on the bed frame and headboard. That’s why it is important to be aware of how to tell if you have bed bugs. By being aware of visible signs you will be able to know when it is time to go searching for their hiding places:
- When bed bugs are crushed they leave a rusty or reddish stain on bed sheets or mattresses.
- Staining dark spots (about this size: •) is bed bug excrement and bleeds on the fabric.
- Nymphs, eggs and eggshells, which are very small (around 1mm) and pale yellow skins that nymphs shed as they grow larger.
If a room has a lot of bed bugs you will start to find them in many places that are not just around the bed:
- Seams of chairs and couches, between cushions, the folds of curtains.
- Drawer joints.
- Electrical receptacles and even in appliances.
- Check loose wall paper, wall hangings and picture frames.
- At the point where the wall and the ceiling meet.
- Bed bugs can even hide in the head of a screw.
Considering bed bugs can fit into the width of a credit card, they can be hard to find. If you think you may have them in your home, take the time to inspect every inch of the room and adjacent rooms. Keep in mind that they come in different sizes so identification can vary.
3 Myths We Hear About Bed Bugs
When we get a call for bed bug treatments, invariably we get the question “Where do bed bugs come from?“. Here are some myths, and the truth, on what causes bed bugs.
- Myth 1 – Bed Bugs Come from Dirty Homes:
Bed bugs do not come from filthy conditions. Many people believe that if they keep a clean home or clean area that they won’t be susceptible to bed bugs. The truth is that bed bugs are not attracted to filth, dust or decay of organic materials. Bed bugs can infest even the cleanest areas with organized. The good news is that keeping a clean, organized area can make it more difficult for bed bugs to hide.
Bed bugs take a blood meal because they require one as they move through their life cycle stages. It is important to note that once your bed bug treatment is underway and you’re prepping for a bed bug exterminator, cleanliness is very important. It helps keep them hidden and in different areas to avoid spreading the issue. Cleanliness and organization help your pest professional solve the issue but doesn’t stop them from infesting your home or business.
- Myth 2 – Bed Bugs Can Jump
Bed bugs do not have the ability to fly or jump. This is a common misconception. In fact, they are slow moving and crawl about 3 feet a minute. This myth comes from their ability to be stealthy. Doing most of their hunting for a blood meal at night and crawling in and out of cracks and crevices allows bed bugs to seem as though they just flew and arrived or jump on the bed. Fortunately, we don’t have to worry about bed bugs flying but this doesn’t stop them from hitching a ride anywhere they want to go.
- Myth 3 – Bed Bug Bites Can Be Identified by A Doctor
When it comes to bed bug bites, everyone has a different reaction. Unfortunately, most physicians are just trying to narrow down where the bites may have been occurring and what could be causing the issue. The key when you go to a physician is narrowing down that there is some issue or condition causing a rash, allergy or a medical condition. They will eliminate the skin conditions and move to the living conditions and environment. They may suggest an allergy test or start to look at spider bites or bed bug bites. A doctor cannot with certainty identify bed bug bites.
Bed bug infestations can be stressful. This is made more so because they seem to be so good at hiding. The why me and what causes bed bugs always come into someone’s mind. Of course, even if you’re not sure you have an infestation better safe than sorry is the best approach. Fortunately, we have the best technicians in the business that have been handling bed bug issues for decades in New York.
If you discover bed bugs in your home, contact EnviroPest NY for immediate relief. Our certified team is educated in the most advanced bed bug protocols and equipped with the state-of-the-art resources necessary for complete eradication of these pests. We’re the exterminators NY trusts and we look forward to discussing your issue.
