Bed Bug Exterminators – Control – Removal

Discovering bed bugs in your property will likely lead to you wondering how they got there in the first place. Bed bugs can spread throughout a property quicker than you think. Bed bug infestations usually start when bed bugs find their way into a new space after latching to purses, suitcases, backpacks, or luggage. Bed bugs most often are introduced into a new environment when infested individuals travel and contribute to the spread. Another common instance is bringing used, infested furniture or items into a new room.

Bed bugs will bite any part of the body where the skin is exposed overnight. This includes your arms, legs, hands, feet, and even your neck. Their bites occur in lines or zigzag patterns. But will bed bugs bite your face? Unfortunately, they can and will.

Although bed bugs can bite your face, you don’t need to worry about bed bugs crawling in your nose, mouth, or ears, which is a common (and understandable) concern. These bugs feed on the surface of your body and prefer to retreat after their meals.

Bed bugs are most known for their bites, which are usually not dangerous. Bed bug bites won’t transmit any diseases. Here’s what to know:

• Most people will not feel the bed bug bite when it occurs. Symptoms will usually appear hours to days after the bite.
• Bed bug bites can appear red in color with mild swelling or bumps. They can be very itchy, but should not be painful.
• Bed bug bites can be told apart from other bug bites by their pattern. They typically appear in straight or zigzag lines in areas of the body that are exposed while you sleep.
• While rare, bed bug bites can cause more severe reactions such as welts. In this case, it’s crucial to seek medical attention!

Although humans are their preferred host, bed bugs have been known to bite dogs and cats as well:

• Bed bugs prefer human hosts, but can bite dogs, cats, rodents, and even birds!
• Bed bugs will not live on or in your pet’s fur.
• If your pet is bitten, the bites will look like tiny red bumps on their belly or limbs, typically in areas with less hair.
• If you notice your pet itch, bite, or show discomfort, it’s smart to look for the signs of bed bugs.

When you have a bed bug problem, it’s recommended to get professional treatment. It’s especially important for commercial properties and businesses to work with a professional. However, there are two ways you can possibly help curb the spread of the infestation:

1. Vacuuming: Thoroughly vacuum your property, paying close attention to any bed bug hotspots, such as underneath furniture and between wall joints. Use attachments to reach inaccessible areas and to use on pillows, cushions, and more. Always empty the contents into a trash can outdoors.
2. Washing bedding: High heat is known to kill bed bugs. Strip your bed of all linens, carefully bring them to your laundry room, and place them into the washing machine. Wash the bedding at a high temperature (at least 140°F) for 90 minutes or more.

It’s easy to assume that getting rid of an infested mattress will get rid of your bed bug problem. Unfortunately, this is not the case. In fact, it is considered reckless to throw out your mattress after a bed bug infestation. Disposing bed bug-infested items, including bedding and furniture, could contribute to the infestation spreading by moving things around.

The best form of bed bug control is keeping them away in the first place! To prevent an infestation, there are several things you can do:

1. Take care while traveling. Before settling into your hotel, look for signs of bed bugs. Keep your luggage above ground, and be cautious when unpacking to avoid bringing bugs home with you.
2. Be wary of used items. Before you purchase any secondhand furniture or other items, thoroughly inspect them for signs of bed bugs. If you see anything, ensure it is treated before bringing it into your property.
3. Have your property inspected on a regular basis. Just as with any pest, bed bugs can be excellent hiders that are best sought out by a professional pest control company. Isotech even offers certified K-9 bed bug inspections for ultimate accuracy.