Dealing with a Bed Bug Infestation

In the past, people had to deal with bed bugs on a pretty regular basis.  That is where the saying “Don't let the bed bugs bite” came from.  Nowadays though, the small pests are seemingly making a big comeback.  They are causing problems in movie theaters, hotel rooms, and college dorms across the country.

If you happen to have a few in your home, then you are in for a major battle.  A bed bug infestation can be very difficult to get rid of.  Here are a few tips on dealing with one.

As their name suggests, bed bugs mainly setup shop in your bed or its components.  That is the reason you will need to check everything thoroughly.  You will need to check the sheets, all of the folds and seams,and even inside of the box spring.  You may have to take your bed apart entirely in order to ensure all of them are gone.

Bed bugs are large enough for you to spot with your naked eye, so you can visibly detect their presence.  Even if you do not spot any, you should look for signs of their presence.  Their excrement will leave dark stains, and smaller nymphs will leave molted skins behind.

It can be very difficult to get rid of bed bugs which have setup shop inside your bed.  There are many different places they can hide, so you likely will not be able to get them all.  It only takes a few to take the population to new heights.  It may be in your best interest to toss out the mattress and box spring and get another one.  Bedding will also need to be washed in extremely hot water to ensure none survive.

Despite their names, bed bugs just do not inhabit beds.  They can also be found in couches, upholstered chairs, and even behind peeling wallpaper.  Couches slept on by humans are prime targets of these bugs.

You should know steam will easily dispatch of bed bugs.  If you have a steam generator you use to clean your home or get the wrinkles out of your clothes, you should use it to kill them.  Spraying standard rubbing alcohol will also get the job done.

If you are dealing with a bed bug infestation, it will help to vacuum your entire home thoroughly.  This includes the bedding components and carpeting.  Bed bugs sometimes are found between the edges of carpeting and the walls.  It can be difficult to track down all of the potential hiding places, so it is usually best to call a professional exterminator.