It is a common misconception that bed bugs will only infest dirty homes. Unfortunately, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Any home, clean or dirty, can be at risk of a bed bug infestation. To make matters worse, we are often responsible for bringing bed bugs inside our homes in the first place. That’s why it’s important to know the preventative measures that you can take to limit your exposure to a bed bug infestation in your Baltimore home.

Identifying Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are small parasitic pests that are often compared to apple seeds in their appearance. They have six legs and are reddish-brown in color. Before feeding, bed bugs have flat bodies; however, after feeding, their bodies will swell up and turn to a deep reddish-purple. Bed bugs get their name from the fact that they often make their homes inside of mattresses and box springs. This is because bed bugs are nocturnal pests, and mattresses provide them with easy access to sleeping humans upon whom they can feed.

Unlike other parasitic pests, bed bugs are not known to spread blood-borne diseases with their bites. However, if an infestation grows too large, or lasts for an extended period, it can lead to anemia in people. Additionally, bed bug infestations can lead to an increase in stress and cause insomnia for people.

How Bed Bugs Get Inside Of Homes

The manner by which bed bugs usually enter homes is by hopping on a person or their belongings, like little hitchhikers. They lay in wait while out in the world and then when a person passes by, they climb aboard without the person ever knowing. Then that person carries those bed bugs home with them resulting in an infestation.

Bed bug hot spots, or areas you could potentially pick up these pests, are spaces that have high-volumes of people coming and going regularly. They include transportation hubs, lodging establishments, and other spaces that many people frequent. Another way that bed bugs will get into a home is by sneaking in on second-hand items such as furniture, appliances, or clothing. If you buy any second-hand items be sure to inspect them for bed bugs and wash them thoroughly before bringing them inside.

Bed Bug Prevention Techniques

Because bed bugs will often sneak into homes without us even noticing, preventing bed bug infestations can be a challenging endeavor. However, there are certain preventative steps that you can take to help limit your exposure. These include:

  • Utilize Pest Czar’s professional bed bug control program.
  • Refrain from placing your luggage or belongings directly on the ground while in bed bug hot spots.
  • Do not sit directly on the ground in bed bug hot spots.
  • Inspect hotel rooms for signs of bed bugs before using them.
  • Inspect your person and your property for bed bugs after returning from bed bug hot spots.
  • Inspect and thoroughly clean all second-hand items before bringing them into your home.
  • Wash your clothing and sheets regularly in hot water.

What To Do If Bed Bugs Infest Your Home

While you should do everything in your power to keep bed bugs out of your home, nothing is 100% effective. Therefore, if you do find yourself dealing with a bed bug infestation, contact the professionals here at Pest Czar immediately. Our trained pest professionals are properly equipped to effectively eliminate the infestation within your home.  Additionally, our bed bug control program will help secure your home from future infestations. Don’t let the bugs keep you from getting a good night’s sleep. Contact Pest Czar today.