Everything You Need to Know About Bedbugs (And How to Get Rid of Them)

Understanding Bedbugs

Why Are They Attracted to You?

Bedbugs are night owls. They come out to feed while you’re peacefully sleeping, attracted by your body heat and the carbon dioxide you exhale. Beds are their favorite hangout, but they’ll happily settle in couches, chairs, and even your car if given the chance.

How Do Bedbugs Get into Your Home?

Bedbugs are sneaky hitchhikers. They can cling to your luggage after a hotel stay, latch onto second-hand furniture, or stow away in your clothes after visiting an infested space. Even if your home is sparkling clean, they can still move in. All they need is a way in and a warm host (aka, you).

How Can You Spot Bed Bugs?

These pests are experts at hide-and-seek. Here’s what to look for:

Bite marks: Small, itchy red spots, often in clusters or lines.

Droppings: Tiny dark stains on bedding or furniture.

Shed skins: Evidence of their growth and molting.

Musty smell: A weird, sweet odor in heavily infested areas.

How Fast Do Bedbugs Multiply?

Bedbugs are like the rabbits of the pest world—they multiply fast! A single female bedbug can lay hundreds of eggs during her lifetime. These tiny eggs hatch in just 6 to 10 days, and the baby bedbugs (nymphs) grow up in about five weeks. Before you know it, a few bedbugs can turn into a full-blown infestation.

Because of their rapid life cycle, a small problem can quickly spiral out of control. That’s why early detection and action are key to stopping these pests before they take over your home!

Common Misconceptions About Bedbugs

One of the biggest myths about bedbugs is that they are a result of poor hygiene. In reality, bedbugs can infest any environment, regardless of cleanliness, as long as they have access to a host. Another misconception is that bedbugs only infest beds. While beds are a primary location, these pests can live in any area where people spend extended periods, such as sofas, chairs, and even cars.

Preventing Bedbug Infestations

Here are some tips to prevent an infestation:

Check second-hand items: Look for signs of bedbugs before bringing furniture or clothes into your home.
Be cautious when traveling: Inspect hotel rooms, keep your luggage off the floor, and wash your clothes on high heat when you return.
Seal cracks and crevices: Don’t give them a place to hide!
Vacuum regularly: Especially around beds, furniture, and carpets.

DIY Bedbug Elimination: Effective Strategies

Think you’ve got a bedbug problem? Here are some ways to tackle it:

Heat is your friend: Wash and dry clothes and bedding on high heat to kill bedbugs and their eggs.
Steam them out: Use a steamer on furniture, mattresses, and cracks.
Vacuum often: Clean affected areas thoroughly, and toss the vacuum bag immediately.
Diatomaceous earth: Sprinkle this powder around hiding spots to dehydrate and kill the pests.

Mattress covers: Use special encasements to trap bedbugs and keep new ones out.

DIY methods can be a good starting point for small infestations, but don’t wait weeks to see if they’re working—bedbugs multiply fast! If you’re not seeing quick results or the infestation seems to be spreading, call a professional right away to stop the problem before it gets out of control.

TREATING BEDBUG BITES

Bedbug bites can be itchy, irritating, and downright frustrating. Here’s how to find relief:

Avoid Scratching: As tempting as it might be, scratching can cause infection and make things worse.
Use Antihistamines: Over-the-counter options like Benadryl can help reduce itching and swelling, though it might make you drowsy. For daytime relief, non-drowsy options like Claritin or Zyrtec are great alternatives. You can also try Benadryl Cream for targeted, topical relief.
Apply Corticosteroids: Anti-itch creams with hydrocortisone can reduce inflammation and calm the skin.
Seek Medical Attention: If bites cause severe allergic reactions or signs of infection, contact a healthcare provider.

Taking care of the bites not only helps you feel better but also prevents further complications. For persistent itching, a combination of oral and topical treatments can be especially effective. Always follow the directions on the product label, and consult a doctor if needed.

Preventing Reinfestation

Once you’ve eliminated bedbugs, follow these steps to avoid reinfestation:

Regularly inspect your home for signs of reinfestation.
Be cautious when traveling or bringing second-hand items into your home.
Use protective covers on mattresses and box springs.
Keep clutter to a minimum to reduce hiding spots.

Ready for Help? Call Perimeguard!

Dealing with bedbugs can be overwhelming, and DIY methods don’t always cut it. If you’re tired of itchy bites, sleepless nights, or chasing these pests around your home, it’s time to call in the professionals.

Perimeguard offers expert bedbug treatment to eliminate the problem quickly and thoroughly. Don’t wait—bedbugs multiply fast! Get peace of mind and reclaim your space today.

Call Perimeguard Now and let us take care of the rest!

Bedbugs

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BEDBUGS