Bed bugs are small parasitic pests that like to feed on the blood of us people as we sleep. If that’s not bad enough, bed bugs can be extremely hard to get rid of. The longer their infestations are allowed to persist, the more difficult it becomes as they can spread throughout properties; identifying infestations quickly and accurately is important. To do so, you need to know what bed bugs look like and how to differentiate them from other similar-looking home-invading pests. You should also know how bed bugs get into homes in the first place and what you should do if you find yourself dealing with an infestation. That way, you can be prepared to address it as quickly as possible.
How To Identify Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are small; however, they aren’t invisible. So, if bed bugs infest your home in the Syracuse area, you will be able to spot them. With that said, differentiating them from other pests isn’t always easy. In fact, many pests look quite similar to bed bugs which can make accurately identifying them challenging. Still, there are some key ways to tell if the pests in your home are, indeed, bed bugs.
Adult bed bugs are about the size and shape of apple seeds. They are reddish-brown and can turn a deep purplish-red after feeding on a blood meal. Bed bugs are incapable of jumping. Therefore, if the pests in your home are jumping about, they are probably fleas, not bed bugs.
In addition to spotting adult bed bugs, you may also find bed bug eggs and eggshells in your home. These are about one millimeter in size and typically milky white, although they can be opaque.
Other Signs Of Bed Bug Infestations
While spotting bed bugs themselves is a sure sign of an infestation, other indicators can help you to identify whether or not bed bugs are living in your home. Bed bugs are nocturnal and, as mentioned, feed on human blood as we sleep. Therefore, they frequently make their homes inside of mattresses and box springs. As a result, you may find bloodstains or rust-like stains from bed bug excrement on your sheets and pillowcases. You may also find these stains on upholstered furniture.
In addition to visual signs, there are other clues you have a bed bug infestation that you can’t see. For example, bed bugs are known to give off a musty odor, especially as their numbers increase. Therefore, if you notice a musty smell emanating from your bed or couch, it could mean you have an infestation. At the very least, it should prompt you to look for additional signs.
How Bed Bugs Get Into Homes
Bed bugs get into homes by sneaking in on us or our belongings that we bring inside. Therefore, it is important to take measures to limit your exposure to bed bugs while out in the world.
Do not sit or place your belongings directly on the ground while out in public.
Inspect hotel rooms for signs of bed bugs before using them.
Thoroughly wash and clean any secondhand clothes, furniture, or appliances before bringing them into your home.
If possible, refrain from purchasing secondhand mattresses and box springs altogether.
How To Get Rid Of Bed Bugs
If you notice any signs of a bed bug infestation or spot bed bugs in your home, contact the professionals here at All Pest of Syracuse right away. Remember, the longer you wait, the more difficult it becomes to eliminate the infestation. So, don’t delay; contact All Pest of Syracuse for bed bug control solutions you can count on.
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