Pest control in Elk Grove area deals with many different pests, but one of the worst indoor pests a homeowner can face is bed bugs. If you think you are dealing with a bed bug infestation, here are some things to keep in mind:
Appearance
Bed bugs appear like flat, reddish-brown, oval bugs that are between 4 to 5 mm long. They are about the size of an apple seed for a quick comparison. They can be rounder and thicker after feeding, since they are full of fresh blood.
Bed bugs need blood, as they eat nothing else. The bugs can go a long time between feedings, so they are hard to get rid of. Studies have been done that show some bed bugs can survive up to a year without a meal. They feed and move around at night, and like cracks and crevices of carpets, rugs, and baseboards. They also tend to congregate in the seams and folds of sheets and pillows.
Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation
1 Seeing the bugs on or around the bed and bedding.
2 Case skins or skin shedding of juveniles that have molted into adult bed bugs.
3 Defecation from where the bugs leave droppings after feedings.
4 Bites and welts on the skin that appear mysteriously during the night.
How do you get Bed Bugs?
Bed Bugs can congregate anywhere and there are many places you can end up picking them up and bringing them home from. These places include but are not limited to offices, campgrounds, airports, stores, laundry mats, hotels, locker rooms, and gyms. They’re great at hiding and can hitch a ride on items of clothing, vehicles, and even on you. They can be very difficult to control once they get established in your home without the help of someone experienced in the practice of Pest control in Elk Grove. Catching them early is the best way to keep them a bay.
Prevention is Key
Keep your home free of clutter and junk so it’s easier to see the bugs congregating. Wash and dry bedding as hot as you can to kill eggs and bugs still clinging to them as well. You will also need to closely inspect things you buy second hand to make sure they are clean before bringing them into your home. Anytime you move, take a trip, or have overnight guests your home should be inspected. One bed bug can live over 300 days, laying 3-5 eggs a day, so they can multiply very quickly.
