How to Fix a Bed Bug Problem
Household pests can come in many shapes and sizes. They can also pose a variety of risks. Some pests, such as mice, ants, and cockroaches, can get into your food supply. Others, such as termites, can damage your home, rental property and cause issues with your airbnb rental.
Then there are bed bugs. These tiny insects can infest the bed and furniture long before you ever detect them. In fact, you or your tenants will feel them and likely not see them. Having an infestation of bed bugs can be unnerving and unsettling. Fortunately, you can take some preventive measures to keep them away. Plus, there are effective treatments to get rid of these unwanted guests.
Call the Pros
If you suspect that you have bed bugs in your home or rental property, you probably don’t want to waste any time banishing them. A professional exterminator can do a thorough job of finding and killing these pests. Exterminators know where these little creatures like to hide and how they get there.
Also, a professional technician knows of effective techniques to kill the bugs and their eggs. Bed bug exterminator costs should not scare you off from choosing this option. Do your homework and research different companies nearby. Then, get some quotes so you can secure a price that you feel good about.
Keep the Area Under Your Bed Free and Clean
Bed bugs love clutter and messes. It’s no wonder why people with boxes, clothing, papers, and even garbage under their beds often have bouts with these pests. One way to keep bed bugs from a bed is to clean under the bed. Instead of storing items there, put them in the closet or on shelves. Vacuum under the bed regularly, too or make sure your tenant is doing vacuuming under there. Vacuuming will take away places for the bugs to hide and nest. If this area is clean, chances are high that the bed won’t be inviting to these critters.
Clean Your Sheets and Comforters Often
How long has it been since you sent the bed linens through the washer? If you can’t remember, then it has definitely been too long. Aside from the obvious reason of having sanitary sheets and blankets, frequent washings can kill any bed bugs and their eggs. The dryer is also hot enough to do this job. In fact, the hotter the washer and dryer are on their cycles, the better when it comes to eliminating bed bugs.
Wash Your Clothes After You Travel
It’s a no-brainer to wash your clothes regularly; however, some people neglect this when it comes to pajamas and other nighttime wear. Bed bugs can make themselves at home on you or your tenant when sleeping and stay on your clothes for days or weeks. Washing your clothes will kill the bugs. This practice is vital when you travel. You can’t be sure of how well the hotels where you are staying are keeping their rooms bed bug-free. When you get home from a trip, wash your clothes, towels, and even your luggage right away.
Wash the Mattress
Bed bugs are so small that you may never see one. They can hide in the mattress and find their ways into the tiniest openings. When washing the sheets is not enough to eliminate the bed bugs, it is time to wash the mattress. Scrub it vigorously with soap and hot water. Doing this should kill the bugs and any eggs. This is a good method for spotting the signs of an infestation as well as preventing one.
Vacuum Regularly
Bed bugs like to burrow themselves in the carpet next to beds and couches. You may keep the beds and furniture clean, but if the floor is still dirty, you may not successfully eliminate these pests. Vacuum daily, especially around beds, chairs, and sofas. It is also a good idea to periodically clean the carpets.
If you spot sores on your back, neck, legs, or arms (or have complaints like this from your tenants), then bed bugs could be the culprits. They won’t likely go away on their own, especially if you are providing them a good place to hide and lay eggs. These tips can help you keep these insects from ever coming into your home or rental property. And if you do have an infestation, these steps can help you take care of this concerning problem.
