What are bed bugs?
Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) feed exclusively on the blood of warm-blooded mammals. People are their favorite hosts, although if we are not available, they may feed on our pets or other animals. Adult bed bugs are small insects that grow to about 1/4 of an inch in length. Their flat, oval-shaped bodies are reddish-brown; after feeding, their bodies swell and elongate, turning a deep, reddish-purple color. Bed bugs use elongated, piercing mouthparts called proboscises with which to feed.
Are bed bugs dangerous?
Bed bugs are nuisance pests. Though they feed on the blood of people and animals, the spread of disease by bed bugs is currently not a big concern; even though bed bugs are not dangerous pests, however, no one wants these bugs feeding on their blood while they sleep. The presence of bed bugs causes people sleepless nights and stress-filled days. It is also important to remember that bed bugs are biting pests. Those allergic to their saliva may experience a reaction, including the development red itchy welts at the bite sites.
Bed bugs are challenging pests to tackle yourself. At the first signs of them in your home, contact a professional. Professional pest control technicians have the experience and modern treatment methods needed to eliminate bed bugs.
Why do I have a bed bug problem?
You have bed bugs in your house because either you or a visitor came into contact with them and then carried these insects into your home. Bed bugs move from place to place by hitchhiking on people or their belongings. People come into contact with bed bugs at work, when traveling, running daily errands, or while visiting friends.
Bed bugs are also able to move from place to place through walls and floors. In apartment buildings, townhouses, or other multi-unit buildings, they become a problem for people by traveling to and from different units.
Where will I find bed bugs?
You have bed bugs in your house because either you or a visitor came into contact with them and then carried these insects into your home. Bed bugs move from place to place by hitchhiking on people or their belongings. People come into contact with bed bugs at work, when traveling, running daily errands, or while visiting friends.
Bed bugs are also able to move from place to place through walls and floors. In apartment buildings, townhouses, or other multi-unit buildings, they become a problem for people by traveling to and from different units.
How do I get rid of bed bugs?
Let the professionals at Old School Pest Control get rid of bed bugs from your New York property. We put our customers first and will take the time to get to the root of your pest problems. Our pest solutions work to eliminate existing pests and will protect your New York property from future ones.
We are a local company and have a good understanding of the pest pressures home and business owners face each day in and around Saratoga County. If you are ready to learn more about protecting your New York residential or commercial property from bed bugs, reach out to Old School Pest Control today!
How can I prevent bed bugs in the future?
In addition to our home pest control and commercial pest control services, prevent problems with bed bugs by implementing the following prevention tips:
- Reduce hiding spots in your home by placing bed bug proof covers over mattresses and box springs.
- Regularly wash pet bedding.
- Avoid buying used mattresses, box springs, furniture, and electronics.
- Always keep personal belongings away from other people’s belongings while at work or school.
- Keep personal belongings up off of the ground in public places.
- Routinely vacuum your home and wash bedding on a high heat cycle.
- When traveling, always inspect your rental space for signs of bed bugs before bringing luggage and other items inside.
- After returning from a trip, immediately wash and dry any clothing, bags, and other washable items that you took on the highest heat setting the fabrics can handle.