Bedbugs are the worst kind of house guest. Besides the fact that they literally suck your blood, they’ll stay forever if you let them! The secret to getting rid of bedbugs is a combination of expertise and professional help. Like most people, you’ve probably heard a myriad of DIY “secrets” to protecting your home from bedbugs after you travel. While many of these tips are
Bedbug myth! Many people think that bedbugs die upon contact with cold weather. But throwing your mattress out in the cold won’t do anything against bedbugs. Even freezing bedbugs in a freezer can take at least four days to be effective! For a lasting solution to your bedbug problems, call Orkin Pest Control!
Why Do Bedbugs Love Beds?
Bedbugs are indoor creatures, which means they love to reside in cozy residential areas. A house gives bedbugs unlimited food, warmth, and a means to live actively year-round. As for why they love beds, bedbugs are attracted to the moisture and warmth of the human body. In fact, they can detect a tasty human from up to three feet away. A bed acts as a veritable smorgasbord for hungry insects. And, because bedbugs cannot fly or even jump, they need to stay close to their primary source of food.
How to Prevent Bed Bugs from Taking Over
There are a few preventative habits you can adopt to prevent bed bugs from taking over your home. If you’ve recently been in contact with someone who has bedbugs, or you just got back from a trip, follow these tips to help secure your home.
- Checking Travel Accommodations. If you’ve recently traveled, remember to put checking for bed bugs at the top of your to-do list. Additionally, inspect your luggage racks and bedding at any hotel room.
- Eliminate Hiding Spots. Protective mattress and box spring covers can help reduce bedbug risk. Coverings with lighter colors can make the bedbugs easier to spot.
- Clean Up. If you have the misfortune to be struck by bed bugs, it does not mean that your house is necessarily dirty. That misconception comes from the fact that clutter makes it easier for bed bugs to hide, so reducing clutter can reduce bedbug risks.
- Frequent vacuuming can reduce bedbug risk by cleaning up eggs and larvae.
Spotting and Treating a Bedbug Infestation
Maybe the only good thing about bedbugs is that they make themselves known once they’ve settled into a home. If your safety precautions have failed, it’s time to call a professional! But there are steps you can take before help arrives to mitigate the infestation.
- Clean Up. Eliminate all hiding spaces for bedbugs by cleaning up clutter and vacuuming regularly. Every little bit of cleanup helps to prevent bedbugs from ever returning!
- Wash everything. Launder your bedding, clothes, and furniture covers. Everything that could have had contact with bedbugs. Make sure to wash in hot water and dry all items on the highest setting. For things that cannot be washed, place in the dryer on the highest heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Dispose of Infested Items. Sometimes people deem items as too infested to salvage and decide to throw them away. There are specific recommended protocols for throwing away bedbug-infested items. A professional is your best bet, as they are experienced in encapsulating infested materials to prevent spreading bedbugs to others.
- Prepare for Treatment. Prepare for your professional treatment by clearing all clutter and taking all clothing off the floor. Move your bed 6 inches away from the wall and make sure everything has been removed from under the bed.
Call Orkin to Eliminate Your Bed Bugs Today!
The most effective way to get rid of your bed bug problem once and for all is by calling a professional! Orkin will thoroughly evaluate your home and determine the best solution for your infestation. Call Orkin today at 601-582-3282 to schedule your consultation!
