Bed bugs are small insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They can easily be transported into homes on bedding, furniture, and clothing. If you suspect a bed bug infestation in your home, it’s important to take immediate action to get rid of them. Here are some steps you can take to eliminate bed bugs:
Step 1: Prepare for Inspection
Before you begin the inspection process, gather the necessary tools: a bright flashlight, a magnifying glass, and disposable gloves.
Step 2: Inspect the Bed
Start by stripping the bed completely, including sheets, blankets, and mattress protectors. Examine the seams, tufts, and folds of the mattress, paying close attention to the edges and corners. Inspect the cracks and crevices of the box spring, bed frame, and headboard.
Step 3: Signs of Bed Bugs
Learn to recognize the signs of bed bugs. Look for live bugs crawling around, reddish-brown fecal spots on the mattress and bedding, and small, whitish eggs or eggshells hidden in crevices.
Step 4: Perform a Thorough Inspection
Bed bugs can hide in various places near the bed and spread to nearby furniture and other rooms. Check nightstands, dressers, chairs, wall hangings, picture frames, electrical outlets, baseboards, carpet edges, and curtain folds or pleats. If you’ve recently traveled or had guests stay over, inspect your luggage and personal items as well.
Step 5: Continue to Monitor
If you suspect an infestation, keep monitoring the area for several days. Bed bugs may not be visible right away, but they will eventually make themselves known. If you see signs of bed bugs, it is recommended to call a professional for assistance.
Vacuum Everything
Use a vacuum cleaner to suck up any bed bugs, eggs, or shed skins you find. Pay close attention to mattress seams, baseboards, couch cushions, and small cracks where bed bugs may be hiding.
Attack With Heat
Wash all infested bedding and clothing in hot water above 120 degrees Fahrenheit to kill bed bugs and their eggs. You can also use heat to steam clean your bed and furniture, but be patient as it may take longer than expected.
Freeze Them Out
If you can’t wash certain items, such as children’s toys, place them in a deep freeze for at least four days to kill any bed bugs or eggs present. Make sure the entire item is frozen before removing it.
Professional Treatment
If the infestation is severe or you can’t locate the source of the bed bugs, it’s best to hire a professional bed bug removal service. They can use chemical treatments, steam treatment, or even bed bug sniffing dogs to locate and eliminate the infestation.
Remember, preventing bed bugs is key. Wash any new clothing or items you bring into your home immediately. Be cautious when traveling and inspect your luggage and clothing for signs of bed bugs. Vacuum regularly and reduce clutter to eliminate hiding spots. By taking these steps, you can effectively get rid of bed bugs and prevent future infestations.