Most people have heard of bed bugs, but many don't know what they are or why they should be concerned about them. Bed bugs are small insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals.
They're most often found in bedding, mattresses, and furniture, which is why they're called bed bugs. They can also be found in other places where people sleep or rest, like couches, chairs, and airplanes.
Although bed bugs aren't known to carry diseases, their bites can cause itching, swelling, and redness. They can also cause anxiety and sleeplessness.
Bed bugs can be a serious problem for homeowners. If you're not sure what bed bugs are or why you should be concerned about them, keep reading. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the reasons why active bed bug infestation can be a problem for Lowcountry homeowners.
We will also provide some tips on how you can protect yourself from these pesky critters with professional bed bug treatments that will kill bed bugs once and for all!
What are the first signs of bed bug infestation?
Bed bugs are tiny, itchy insects that feed on human blood. They're extremely difficult to see because they're so small and typically come out at night. The first signs of bed bug infestation are bed bug bites, which can be mistaken for mosquito or flea bites.
Bed bugs multiply quickly. Bed bug infestations start when the bed bug eggs hatch into nymphs and then grow into adults in about 10 days. These adult bed bugs will then mate and lay more eggs, continuing the cycle until there's an infestation throughout your home.
If you've experienced any bed bug bites recently, check carefully for other signs before assuming that what you have is just another insect bite!
Here are some of the most common signs of these pesky creatures:
1) Bites- As mentioned before, the first sign of bed bugs is typically bites. Bed bug bites tend to happen to people at night, while they're sleeping. The bugs pierce the skin and then suck blood from the wound for about five minutes before going back into hiding.
These bed bug bites are small, raised, and red, and they often appear in a line or cluster. Bed bug bites can be itchy and irritating, possibly causing an allergic reaction, but they don't usually cause any serious medical problems.
Some people don't react to bedbug bites at all, while others may develop red, itchy welts.
If you think you may have bed bugs, look for other signs of an infestation:
· Blood stains on your sheets or pillowcases
· Small brownish dots on your mattress and box springs, or bed frames (these are their droppings)
· Rust-colored stains on your skin (bed bugs leave behind this stain when they bite)
· Tiny white eggs or eggshells in cracks and crevices around your bed
· A sweet, musty smell coming from your bed
If you see any of these signs, it's time to call a pest control professional to get rid of bed bugs before they take over your home!
What is the main cause of bed bugs?
The main cause of bed bug infestation is the way humans live now. Bed bugs seem to have become more common in recent years and it's likely that our own habits are to blame.
We now travel more than ever before and bed bugs are very good at hitching a ride. They can easily climb onto luggage or clothes and be transported to new locations where bed bugs hide. Once they're in a new home, they'll quickly start to breed and spread.
Bed bug populations have exploded in recent years because they've become resistant to many of the pesticides that were once used to kill them. This means that traditional methods bed bug control are no longer as effective as they once were.
Finally, our homes are now warmer and more comfortable than ever before. This is great for us but it's also ideal for bed bugs. Bed bugs naturally likes to be in warm environments and our homes provide the perfect environment for them to thrive.
So, if you're wondering what the main cause of bed bug infestation is, it's likely a combination of all these factors. Our own habits, increased travel - including spending time in hotel rooms, and more comfortable homes are all playing a role in the spread of these pests. And once they're in your home, it can be a real challenge to get rid of bed bugs completely.
Can you see a bed bug with the naked eye?
No, you cannot see a bed bug with the naked eye. While they are small, a bed bug can be difficult to spot. The best way to determine if you have bed bugs is to look for signs of them, such as bed bug bites on your skin or molted bed bug skins. If you suspect you have bed bugs, it is best to contact a professional pest control company for an inspection.
As we mentioned earlier, bed bugs are small, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans. They are reddish-brown in color and about the size of an apple seed. Bed bugs are attracted to body heat and carbon dioxide, which is why they often bed bugs bite humans while they are sleeping.
They are not easy to spot due to their small size plus bed bugs hide in cracks and crevices including a bed frame, electrical outlets, bed clothes, and other hiding places.
Can bed bugs live in your hair?
No, contrary to popular belief, bed bugs cannot live in your hair. Bed bugs are parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They are attracted to the warmth and carbon dioxide that we emit, which is why they are often found in bedding or other areas where people sleep.
While bed bugs can climb into your hair, they will not be able to survive there. The lack of food and warmth will eventually kill them. If you do find bed bugs in your hair, you can be easily get rid of bed bugs with a lice comb or by washing your hair with shampoo
.
How can I tell if I have bed bugs or fleas?
It can be difficult to tell whether you have bed bug infestation or fleas, as both pests can cause similar symptoms. In general, however, there are a few key ways to tell the difference between these two pests.
One key way to tell the difference is by looking at the bites themselves. Bed bug bites are usually small, red, and raised, while flea bites are often smaller and more brown in color. Additionally, bed bugs typically bite in a line or cluster, while fleas tend to bite randomly.
Another way to tell the difference is by looking at where the bites are on your body. Bed bugs typically bite on exposed areas of skin, such as the face, neck, and arms. Fleas, on the other hand, are more likely to bite around the ankles and legs.
Finally, bed bugs are more active at night, while fleas are more active during the day. If you notice bites appearing overnight, it is more likely that you have bed bugs and usually will experience bed bug bites.
If you are unsure whether you have bed bugs or fleas, it is always best to contact a pest management professional for assistance. They will be able to properly identify the pest and recommend the best treatment methods.
Can bed bugs make you sick?
Bed bugs do not directly make humans sick. However, bed bug bites can cause skin irritation and sometimes lead to secondary infections if they are not properly treated. Bed bug saliva can also cause an allergic reaction in some people, which may result in itching, redness, and swelling.
If you think you have bed bug bites, it is important to clean the area well and see a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms. While a bed bug's bite is not known to transmit diseases, they can be a nuisance and cause anxiety for those who are dealing with them.
From dealing with bed bug bites, to dealing with the stress of having infested areas, bed bugs can certainly have a negative impact on your health. In order to get rid of bed bugs, it is important to contact a pest management professional experienced in treating bed bugs effectively.
What happens if bed bug infestations go untreated?
Left untreated, bed bugs can quickly spread to other areas of your home including guest rooms, upholstered furniture, your bed's mattress and box spring and even your clothing. Get rid of bed bugs quickly to avoid a costly and time-consuming infestation.
Bed bugs are resilient pests that can survive without feeding for long periods of time. That's why killing bed bugs is essential to getting rid of an infestation.
An untreated infested room can cost you hundreds in damages and possibly lead to severe infestation, not to mention the health risks associated with these bed bugs.
If you think you have live bedbugs, it is important to contact a pest control professional to get rid of them. Do not try to treat bedbugs yourself, as this can make the problem worse. If you have bed bugs, treatments will likely require multiple steps and may need to be repeated to completely get rid of them.
Treating bed bugs can be difficult and it is important to contact a pest control professional if you think you have them.
Tips to prevent Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are a significant problem in many parts of the United States, including the Charleston Lowcountry. Bed bugs feed on human blood and killing bed bugs can be difficult, especially if you don't know how to prevent them in the first place. Here are 11 tips to prevent bed bugs:
Cleanliness is key when it comes to preventing bed bugs.
Vacuum Your Floors and Carpets Regularly
Bed bugs are attracted to dirt and debris, so it's important to vacuum your floors and carpets regularly.
Store Your Clothing in a Vacuum-Sealed Plastic Bag
Whenever possible, store your clothing in a vacuum-sealed plastic bag, especially when travelling. A plastic bag will prevent bed bugs from being able to infest your clothing and potentially spread to other parts of your home.
Check Your Pets for Bed Bugs
Bed bugs can also be carried by pets, so it's important to check your pets for bed bugs and bed bug bites regularly. If you find bed bugs on your pet, be sure to take them to the vet for treatment.
Cut Back On Clutter
One of the best ways to prevent bed bugs is by cutting back on clutter. Bed bugs thrive in cluttered environments, so keeping your home clean and tidy will go a long way in preventing them.
Cover Your Mattress
One of the best ways to prevent a bed bug infestation is by covering your mattress with a bed bug cover. This will keep them from being able to infest your mattress and will make it easier to spot them if they do.
Inspect Your Furniture Regularly
Inspect your furniture regularly for bed bugs. If you find you are getting bed bug bites while sitting on a piece of furniture, be sure to take action immediately to get rid of them.
Don't Bring Used Furniture Into Your Home
If you're considering buying used furniture, be sure to inspect it for bed bugs first. It's best to avoid bringing used furniture into your home altogether to prevent the risk of bed bug infestation.
Avoid Moving Blankets
One of the best ways to prevent bed bugs is by avoiding moving blankets. Moving blankets are often infested with bed bugs, so it's best to avoid them altogether.
Be Careful When Staying in Hotels
When travelling, be sure to inspect your hotel room for bed bugs. If you find bed bugs, be sure to notify the front desk and request a different room.
Wash Your Bedding Regularly
One of the best ways to prevent bed bugs is by washing your bedding regularly. This will help get rid of any bed bugs that may be hiding in your bedding.
Seal Your Home From Bed Bugs
One of the best ways to prevent bed bugs from entering your home is by sealing it up tight. Use caulk or silicone sealant to seal cracks or openings in your home, which will help keep bed bugs out.
Wrapping it up
Bed bugs are a serious problem, but there are ways to prevent them. By following these tips, you can help keep your home free of bed bugs. But, if you do find bed bugs in your home, Charleston area pest control companies like Arrow Termite & Pest Control can help get rid of bed bugs. Arrow Termite & Pest Control can help you kill bed bugs quickly and effectively, so you can sleep soundly again.
Bed bug control is important, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. Let Arrow Termite & Pest Control help you get rid of bed bugs for good. Our experienced bedbug professionals will be able to identify the problem and come up with an effective solution tailored to get rid of bed bugs for your specific situation.
We understand how difficult dealing with bedbugs can be, so we'll work quickly and efficiently to get rid of them for good. Contact us today for a free consultation!
If you have any questions about bed bugs, bed bug bites, or would like Arrow Termite & Pest Control to help kill bed bugs in your home, please don't hesitate to contact us! Our experienced bed bug professionals are here to help protect your home and family from these pests and itchy bites. Arrow Termite & Pest Control: (843) 873-0800.