Here in Baltimore, there are all sorts of pests you might find infesting your home. Of them all, few are as hard to prevent and get rid of as bed bugs. As such, people want to know as much about these pests as possible. Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths surrounding bed bugs that can make your home more susceptible to an infestation. That’s why we here at Pest Czar want to set the record straight when it comes to bed bugs. Here are some of the biggest bed bug myths out there, and the truth you need to know to limit your exposure to these unwanted pests.
Myth: Bed Bugs Are Too Small To See.
Truth: Although small, bed bugs are not too small to see. In fact, they are about the same size and color as apple seeds. Many people refer to bed bugs as apple seeds with legs. While the bodies of bed bugs are flat before feeding, they will swell up after they have fed on a blood meal. They might also take on a more purplish hue after feeding. In addition to spotting bed bugs in your home, you could notice other signs of an infestation, as well. These include blood stains or rust-like stains on bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture. You might also spot bed bug exoskeletons on the surfaces of your home.
Myth: Bed Bugs Only Happen In & Around Beds, Usually In Dirty Homes.
Truth: This misleading myth is probably the one that exposes more people to bed bug infestations than any other. The truth is, bed bugs don’t care whether or not your home is dirty. They will infest just about any home they get inside of. As for bed bugs only living in beds, indeed, infestations can often begin in or around beds. This is because bed bugs prefer to feed on the blood of humans and are nocturnal. Beds provide them with easy access to sleeping humans upon whom they can feed. However, while an infestation might start in a mattress or a box spring, it will spread throughout a home if it is not dealt with quickly.
Myth: Bed Bugs Spread Disease.
Truth: Although they do feed on blood, bed bugs are not known to spread any kind of disease. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t come without their drawbacks. Bed bug infestations can induce insomnia in people living among them. Furthermore, bites from bed bugs leave itchy red welts on the skin which can become prone to scratching and secondary infections. Finally, if a bed bug infestation grows to be too large, or lasts for too long, it can lead to anemia in the people who live in the home.
Myth: You Can Get Rid Of Bed Bugs On Your Own.
Truth: Effectively getting rid of bed bugs requires a lot of knowledge and special equipment. As such, getting rid of them on your own is no easy task. It also can be an expensive endeavor. As such, if you find yourself dealing with a bed bug infestation in your Baltimore home, you should call the professionals here at Pest Czar right away. The longer an infestation lasts, the more it can spread throughout a home so it’s always best to deal with them as soon as possible. Moreover, here at Pest Czar, we have the proper experience, expertise, and equipment to effectively eliminate any bed bug infestation with which you are dealing. Don’t let bed bugs keep you from getting a good night’s sleep. Give us a call now to get started.