Category: Bed Bugs

8/3/2014 0 Comments

3 simple steps to avoid bed bugs during travel

Perhaps the most common Bed Bug myth is that bed bugs reside in only dirty environments, but the reality is that people are the attraction. Bed Bugs are attracted to carbon dioxide and heat. Both of which are emitted by humans and pets. They can reside in the cleanest apartment, home, movie theater, hotel, cruise line, or plane as long as people reside in the area.

Pest control companies that rarely heard of bed bugs cases years ago are now getting multiple calls a week of newly exposed infestations in all major and minor cities in the U.S. The problem is only getting worse, exponentially worse, as a matter of fact.

Here are a few tips to avoid these little hitchhikers when traveling:

When you check into your hotel, ask the front desk attendant if they've had evidence of bed bugs in the hotel or any rooms, specifically the room you are staying in. Legally they need to be disclose that and tell you if any rooms have recently seen activity or if they've been treated.
When you enter your room, don't put your luggage on the bed or on the floor. This is perhaps the biggest mistake everyone makes. Instead, first put your belongings in the bath tub (bed bugs can't climb porcelain very well). This will give you enough time to go to the bed and pull the sheets off the head of the bed. Look at the seam of the mattress and box spring to see if there is any evidence of bed bugs, fecal stains (small black dots), or blood stains. If you see any of these three... grab your luggage and get out!
If you don't see any evidence of bed bugs in the room, it doesn't necessarily mean that bed bugs aren't in your living quarters. Next, take a blow dryer and put it on the highest setting and blow cracks along the headboard, box spring, mattress, dresser, baseboards, and other cracks to see if any bed bugs will come out. Bed bugs, once again, are attracted to heat. Too much heat will actually kill them. If you see even one bed bug, get a new room or better yet, a new hotel.

By following these three simple steps, you'll save yourself hundreds, maybe even thousands, of dollars if you bring bed bugs home. If, unfortunately, you bring them home, you will need to have your house professionally treated. They will never just go away. Some studies reported findings of bed bugs living without feeding for up to 18 months! Sleep tight and, of course, "don't let the bed bugs bite".

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2/1/2014 1 Comment

Bed Bug FAQ

How do I know I have Bed Bugs?

Bite marks are red, elevated, and possibly itchy.
Fecal stains on the seam of the mattress at the head of the bed.
Blood spots on the bed sheets.
Evidence of the bugs itself.

How did I get Bed Bugs?

Usually from traveling, you are more susceptible to pick them up from hotels or motels. Used Furniture or people staying at your home from out of town.

Can't I just treat for them myself?

Good luck. They are the most difficult pest to eradicate. Even the most experienced professionals struggle to control bed bugs. They are difficult because they hide everywhere!

Why does it cost so much?

The process is extensive. Multiple treatments usually four or more to control the situation. It takes two or more licensed technicians multiple hours for one room. The price includes an inspection, steam treatment, multiple products, monitors, and encasements for the box spring and mattress.

What should I look for in Pest Control Company?

Two or more licensed technicians to perform the work.
Two or more extensive treatments, instead of only one.
Price, cheapest is never the best.
Experience in the industry and a positive reputation.
Written expectations of the customer and the company.

Why are they so hard to eradicate?

They have formed an immunity to products over hundreds of years. They are always hiding in small cracks and crevices. The females lay 2-12 eggs every day. The eggs hatch in 3-5 days. And the problem continues.

Where do I stay while the treatment is taken place?

Generally you want to stay at a motel or hotel while the first treatment is being performed. Never spend the night in a living room or another bedroom because you might bring them into the new room unnoticed.

Can't we just wait them out?

No, unless you're willing to wait 18 months or longer. Bed bugs can last easily live over a year without feeding.

How long will it take to get rid of them?

Weeks realistically. Months possibly. Minimum of two treatments that are 10-14 days apart. Once again, they are very difficult to eradicate.

How do I know they are completely gone?

Generally the rule of thumb is 50-60 days without seeing any bed bugs, getting bit or having any blood stains on your sheets are a good indicator that they have been successfully treated.

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