Bed bugs aren’t a fun pest to have in your home and at Ledford’s, we know how intimidating an infestation can be. However, there are a few simple steps you can take to get rid of your bed bugs and get your home back to being pest-free.
What to Look For
There are several indications of a bed bug infestation. If you’ve experienced bed bug bites, thoroughly inspect your mattress, box spring, and even nearby furniture. Look for things like:
- The bugs themselves
- Small black or reddish spots
- Shed skins
- Small human blood stains
- Tiny cream-colored eggs (usually found in crevices)
Where They Can Be Found
While the name “bed bugs” implies that these pests are only found in beds. While beds are their most common hiding place, they can actually be found in a variety of other furniture, such as chairs, couches, dressers, night stands, and love seats. And the list doesn’t stop there – bed bugs can sometimes be found behind baseboards, curtains, wallpaper, picture frames, electrical switch plates, and other uncommon crevices.
How to Get Rid of Them
As bed bugs evolve, they’re becoming more and more resistant to bed bug pesticides, which means getting rid of them requires a little more effort. Start by vacuuming the area of infestation and areas around it, including carpets and mattresses. Once you’re done, empty the vacuum bag into a plastic bag, seal it, and then throw it in the trash right away.
After that, you’ll want to apply heat (at least 100 degrees) to the infested areas in order to eliminate the bed bugs. Use a handheld steamer and steam any cracks and crevices where you think they may be hiding.
If the infestation is severe and you’re considering throwing out your mattress or box spring, make sure you note that they are infested with bed bugs. (Try spray painting the words “bed bugs” or simply pull the stuffing out of them.) This will keep others from salvaging them for themselves and infesting their own home.
