How To Get Rid Of Bed Bugs: Dos And Don'ts

It can be difficult to get rid of bed bugs. If you're looking for an effective bed bug treatment, consider these dos and don'ts.

When pest control companies get phone calls about indoor pests, one of the most common questions is about bed bug treatment. People have searched for how to get rid of bed bugs (also known as cimicidae) in a number of ways, but most of them are ineffective. If you're looking for a treatment, here's what not to do.  

Don't Throw Out Infested Furniture

The first thing most people think to do is to throw out all their furniture. After all, no one wants to sleep on a mattress that's crawling with pests or sit on a couch that's infested. However, this isn't a good idea. It's not uncommon for people to pick up furniture that's sitting on a neighborhood curb. If someone picks up your old couch that's infested with cimicidae, the infestation automatically spreads to their house and to anyone who visits them. If you do decide to throw out furniture, consider destroying it enough so that no one else will want to pick it up.

Don't Rely On Pest Control Chemicals

Pest control solutions and chemicals are ineffective in eliminating all of these pests. If a pest control company promises that they have a chemical solution or a product you can buy to remove them all, keep looking. There is no documented chemical solution that's proven to be effective in eliminating all cimicidae.

Don't Try Freezing Them

Freezing seems like it might be a great option for bed bug treatment. However, all this actually does is put them into a hibernation state. A freezer can kill the pests, but the freezer needs to be at an extremely low temperature for an extended period of time. Homeowners would need a commercial grade freezer -- a typical one in the home just isn't cold enough.

Do Remove Clutter

Cimicidae love clutter. If your house is full of extra papers, blankets, books and more, you're creating a breeding ground for these pests. It also makes finding an effective bed bug treatment more difficult.

Do Clean Often

Linens should be washed often. Whenever possible, use the highest heat available and don't just wash the sheets. Comforters, dust ruffles, pillow cases and pillows should all be washed. Also make sure to vacuum under the mattress, behind the headboard, around nightstands, dressers and more. These pests like to live in small corners or crevices so don't forget to move things around to clean better.

Do Try Killing Bed Bugs With Heat

Killing bed bugs with heat is one of the most effective ways to get rid of them. If you're interested in trying this out, definitely call a professional company that knows how to get rid of bed bugs. It's not enough to turn up your heater or open all the windows on a hot summer day. A professional company will know how to seal off the room and heat it without causing burns or damage to your household items. In many cases, items like mattresses, nightstands and other pieces of furniture can remain in the room, which helps ensure you're killing bed bugs with heat effectively.

Many people feel shame when they find out they have a cimicidae problem. However, these pests are found everywhere and it's not uncommon to find them in your house at some point. The key is to know how to fight them effectively so you can rid yourself of them once and for all.

Article Tags: Pest Control, These Pests

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