Eradicating Them
Eradicate, eliminate, exterminate - it all means the same thing: killing bed bugs. But why are these tiny beasts of burden so darned hard to get rid of? Why does it seem like they're incredibly hardy? It all boils down to resistance. Bed bugs have been around forever.
The Resistance
Over time, they have built up a resistance to the pesticides that once worked perfectly. This has led to a resurgence of the nasty, blood-sucking pests we had previously nearly eradicated. So what are some effective ways to eliminate bed bugs completely? That's our discussion for this post.
Identifying Them
If you suspect you may have an active bed bug infestation, the first step is to positively identify them as bed bugs. This is because there are other 'look alike' bugs commonly mistaken for bed bugs, such as carpet beetles. Keep in mind bed bugs don't have wings and don't fly, as well as their size - they are smaller than a dog tick and look very similar.
Finding Them
Besides the well-known hiding places like bed frames, box springs, and bedding, bed bugs hide behind pictures on the wall, in wall cracks, and behind electrical outlets. Because of their flat bodies and tiny size, when there's a bed bug infestation, you will find them just about anywhere possible - within about 8 feet from where you sleep! Therefore, you will want to get rid of bed bugs immediately.
Feeding Them
Say, what? Bed bugs need a blood meal before molting into each phase of their 5 stage life cycle. You are on the menu, as the "special of the day" In essence, you're feeding them - and just like when we feed a stray animal, they don't want to leave!
Bites
Bed bug bites are itchy welts that can be red and irritating. Often, they are left in groups of 3, causing people to joke by saying 'breakfast, lunch, and dinner'. In reality, bed bugs only feed about once a week. A bed bug bite is not dangerous, just annoying.
How They Spread
There are only a few bed bug treatment methods you can choose from, that will actually get rid of bed bugs fast. Bed bugs spread by hitching a ride with you from infested areas like hotel rooms, hospitals, and people's houses. Another common mistake is buying used furniture, before thoroughly inspecting every crevice for any sign of bed bugs, first.
Bed Bug Control
Bed bug control is only possible in a bed bug infestation if you can find a way to remove bed bugs permanently. Even if just one female (who is always carrying 3-4 eggs at a time, and lays approximately one egg a day for most of her life) survives, your infestation begins all over again. To get rid of bed bugs for good, choose the right treatment.
Treating Bed Bugs By Extermination
Unfortunately, traditional pest control methods are often ineffectual. Bed bugs are notorious for hiding in your bed frame or box spring but can be found in other furniture like dresser drawers and chairs. People who opt for pest control typically just get rid of a lot of their household furniture to be sure they get rid of bed bugs.
Not Ideal
Traditionally, spraying chemicals to kill bed bugs takes at least two or more visits, depending on the severity of the infestation. In addition, you will have to get rid of your bedroom furniture at the minimum, and many other items that may pose a risk.
DIY - ??
Sealing some of your belongings in a plastic bag and putting the sealed bag in the hottest place possible (car trunk, garage, etc.) for at least a week (to be 100% sure) after treating for bed bugs, is sometimes partly effective.
Speak with a pest management professional before making a decision, of course. In fact, there is a DIY method of pest control that has had quite an impact on bed bugs, so let's discuss it.
Integrated Pest Control
There is something called integrated pest management, which is a more environmentally conscious way to kill bugs and other pests, including bed bug infestations. They can use something called diatomaceous earth, a natural substance that is found in the earth's crust and countless other places. It offers a new and interesting kind of prevention technique.
Bed Bug Prevention
Food grade diatomaceous earth is a powder safe for use on pets for tick and flea control, and for use in many other unrelated products we all use. It kills pests with exoskeletons, in essence, by dehydration.
It works to kill bed bugs in 7 to 17 days after use, but it is especially good to prevent bed bugs in the first place or to prevent reinfestation.
Heat Treating Is Best
When it comes to bed bug treatments, using heat treatments is by far the best option. Although it can be more expensive, it's worth it because it only takes one 8-hour (approximately) heat treatment (one night away from home). Plus, it's usually money back guaranteed to get rid of bed bugs for good, and you don't have to get rid of anything.
Crime Scene Cleaners
Did you know that a bed bug problem is considered a biohazard? Here at Crime Scene Cleaners, we have been treating this kind of problem for years. Most people don't think about calling us when dealing with things like:
- Bed bugs
- Hoarder home situations
- Residential cleaning
- Commercial cleaning
- Poison Oak
- Industrial spills
- Industrial accidents
- Biohazard cleanups
- Unattended death cleanups
Really, any kind of cleaning job, big or small - you name it, we've seen it and cleaned it! Crime Scene Cleaners NW has been serving Seattle and the Pacific Northwest for many years for all types of cleaning jobs and in the worst situations.
Whenever you need help with any type of cleaning job, including biohazard cleanups and unattended death cleanups, we are certified to clean up and dispose of biohazardous waste of all kinds.
Our technicians are professional, discreet, and compassionate. We use protective clothing and equipment to keep everyone safe. If you have a bed bug problem or any other infestation or other type of cleaning job, call Crime Scene Cleaners.