Just one decade ago, bed bugs were nearly a thing of the past. But as typically happens in nature, just when you think you’ve got the upper hand, natural selection takes over. Bed bugs have made a resurgence that is wreaking havoc not just on the usual suspects – the hospitality and hotel industry – they are invading all around the Charleston area and causing a whole lot of stress and concern. Fear not – we are here to help! Here are the ABCs of bed bug pest control as outlined by our bed bug pest control Charleston, SC pros!
What Are Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are oval, brown, and small, and they live by feasting off the blood of both humans and animals. Their flat bodies are about the size of an apple seed. Unlike other insects, bed bugs cannot fly, but they quickly maneuver around ceilings and walls, where they can lay as many as a hundred or more eggs in just one speck of dust. An adult bed bug will shed its skin up to five times, and each time will require a large amount of blood (relative to its size) to do so. If not addressed, each bed bug can leave behind three or more generations in just one year.
Where Do Bed Bugs Live?
The reason that they are called “bed bugs” is because they typically make a home in bedding, clothing, couches, and other safe havens. A bed bug’s tiny body allows it to lie undetected in places like bed frames, mattresses, and box springs, where it waits for its next victim. Over time, if they are not eliminated, they will occupy every inch of a room, regardless of how clean or unclean the room is.
Signs of an Infestation
Because they are often not visible, waking with an itchy bite after sleeping might be a clear sign of bed bugs – especially if it only happens at night or when you are near furniture. Other things to look for are:
- Bloodstains on pillowcases or sheets
- Excrement that looks like rust stains on beds, clothes, and/or walls
- Fecal spots, shed skin, or eggshells in areas where they are known to hide
- Offensive musty odors
Treatments For Bed Bugs
Treatment for bed bugs must be comprehensive:
- Clean curtains, clothing, linens, and bedding with soapy hot water, and then put them in the dryer on a high heat setting
- Scrub the mattress with a brush to remove all eggs
- Vacuum your bed and all the areas around it, then place all remnants in a plastic bag and take it outdoors immediately
- Cover mattress and box spring with a cover to prevent them from finding further refuge
- Look for and eliminate places they can return to hide
Call an Exterminator
Even with the most thorough efforts on your part, it is still a good idea to call an exterminator like Lowcountry Pest Specialists. We have industry chemicals that will ensure that bed bugs are a thing of the past. The products that we use ensure your safety, and we use them in specific ways to protect you and your family.
Bed bugs used to be rare, but they are becoming more common as people travel out of the country and bed bugs have evolved. If you suspect that you have a bed bug infestation, the best thing to do is call our bed bug pest control in Charleston, SC to ensure that your problem is handled. Schedule your bed bug evaluation and treatment with us today!
