Bed bugs are a common problem in the United States today. Although they were thought to be completely eradicated years ago with the use of the pesticide DDT, recent concerns over these pests have begun again. Knowing how to kill bed bugs can prevent illness and keep your living spaces pest-free and clean. There are a few ways to kill bed bugs, but because they are elusive creatures, it can be difficult without the right information.
Locate the bugs
The first step you must take in completely getting rid of bed bugs is to locate where they might be hiding. This can be difficult, as bed bugs are nocturnal and only come out of their hiding places in the night time to feed on the blood of sleeping pets and humans. Common hiding places for these bugs are at the corners of mattresses, in between box springs, and under pillowcases or the corners of bed frames.
Bed bugs may also live in other furniture such as armchairs or couches. They can also live in the spaces between wicker furniture, in baseboards, or even in corners of desks and drawers. Be sure to also check the folds of curtains, under loose wallpaper, and in clutter in the room.
Clean, clean, clean
The next step after you figure out you have a bed bug problem is to clean the rooms that may be affected. This should not be a simple sweep-and-mop job. Rather, it should be very thorough and include steaming all clothing, pillowcases, and sheets. It is also important to thoroughly clean all potential hiding places with a sturdy brush to dislodge any bed bugs or eggs, and then use a powerful vacuum to suck out all dead and alive bed bugs from those spots. Make sure you seal and discard the bag outside of the house when you’re finished.
It is also wise to turn over any furniture, empty dresser drawers, and bed frames for more hiding places, and give areas the same thorough cleaning and vacuuming treatment.
If this tactic doesn’t work for you, you will want to hire a professional. Those who are trained in the extermination of tricky pests like bed bugs will know exactly where to look, and exactly how to make sure the problem is gone – for good. If you’re wondering how best to go about this, call our pest control experts to find out more. We have a variety of different ways we can help you be sure your pest problems are completely eliminated.
Bed bugs are nasty little creatures, and if you have any indications that you might have an infestation in your home, get rid of them immediately. Using these simple tactics will help you make sure you are safe in your home, and you can go to bed at night with no worries or stresses that you will have problems with bed bugs.
To learn more about bed bugs and how to get rid of them, click here.