How much do you really know about bed bugs other than the fact that they’re bugs found oftentimes in beds? These pests are a nuisance and can infest anyone’s home at the drop of a hat. It’s important for everyone to know the basics about bed bugs so you can avoid them altogether.
Are Bed Bugs Only Found in Beds?
While bed bugs are commonly found in mattresses, they are also found in box springs, headboards, dressers, carpeting, linens, behind wallpaper, and sometimes near electrical outlets. They can be anywhere in a house, apartment, hotel, train, etc. and will usually be within 10 feet of where people sleep.
How Do I Know if I have an Infestation?
The most obvious sign of an infestation is seeing little brown and red dots in your home, especially near the bed. These dots will consist of the bed bugs themselves, as well as their shedded exoskeletons and fecal matter. Usually when there’s an infestation, one or more people in your home will wake up with irritated bumps on their body. These bumps are bite marks and can take up to 2 weeks to show on a person’s skin.
How Did Bed Bugs Get Into My Home?
Bed bugs are small — anywhere from 1mm to 7mm. They are experts at hiding in the seams and crevices of suitcases, furniture, clothing, and even on your person. These pests survive on blood, but can go extended periods of time without a meal. So they can stay in hiding for a long time without anyone ever noticing them.
Bed bug infestations aren’t uncommon, so it’s important to know about them before one develops in your home. When you think you have a bed bug infestation, contact the pest management professionals at Knockout Pest Control. To learn more, or to schedule an inspection, give us a call at (800) 244-7378.
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