Information

Facts About Bed Bugs

  1. What They Are:
    Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are small, flat, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals while they sleep.

  2. Size & Appearance:
    Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed (4–7 mm), reddish-brown, and wingless. Nymphs (juveniles) are smaller and pale.

  3. Where They Hide:

    • Mattress seams, box springs, bed frames

    • Cracks and crevices in furniture, walls, and floors

    • Behind baseboards, picture frames, electrical outlets

  4. Activity:

    • Nocturnal (active at night)

    • Attracted to body heat and carbon dioxide

    • Can survive for months without feeding

  5. Signs of Infestation:

    • Itchy red bites, often in a line or cluster

    • Rusty or reddish stains on sheets (crushed bugs)

    • Tiny dark spots (excrement)

    • Eggshells or shed skins near hiding spots

    • Musty odor from bug scent glands

  6. Not Known to Spread Disease:
    While uncomfortable and annoying, bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases.

How to Control Bed Bugs

1. Identification

  • Confirm presence using a flashlight and magnifying glass.

  • Use bed bug interceptors or sticky traps to monitor activity.

2. Declutter and Isolate

  • Remove clutter around sleeping areas.

  • Encase mattresses and box springs in bed bug-proof covers.

3. Vacuum Thoroughly

  • Vacuum beds, baseboards, furniture, and carpets regularly.

  • Seal and discard vacuum bags immediately.

4. Wash & Heat Treat

  • Wash bedding, clothing, and curtains in hot water.

  • Dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes (kills all life stages).

5. Use Heat or Cold

  • Heat-infested items to over 120°F (49°C).

  • Freeze items at 0°F (−18°C) for 4+ days.

6. Chemical Treatments

  • Avoid DIY pesticide overuse — bed bugs can develop resistance.

7. Professional Help

  • Severe infestations often require pest control professionals using heat treatments, fumigation, or integrated pest management (IPM).

Prevention Tips

  • Inspect secondhand furniture carefully.

  • Keep luggage off beds and floors in hotels. ( place in bath tub upon arrival and inspect room for activity)

  • Wash and dry travel clothing on high heat after trips