Bed Bugs

Professional Bed Bug Pest Control Norfolk Virginia

The bed bug “Cimex lectularius” is a parasite that feeds on blood from an animal or human host. Bed bugs travel from location to location in suitcases, purses, overnight bags, backpacks, shoes, bed linen, and other personal accessories. The insect’s biggest target is the unaware, vulnerable traveler, staying in hotels, bed & breakfasts, inns, and motels.

Bed Bug Physical Characteristics – How To Identify?

Everyone should know the physical characteristics of a bed bug. The physical characteristics will ensure quick and easy identification of the bed bug. The adult measures about 3/16 of an inch long. The body is the shape of an apple seed and reddish/black to dark red. As the insect feeds, its abdomen becomes engorged with blood. The insect’s body blends in with cherry, dark walnut, red mahogany, coffee brown, Jacobean, spice brown, and golden brown wood finishes.

The small size makes the bed bug extremely difficult to detect with the human eye. The insect is not microscopic, but small enough to hide in small crevices. Bed bugs commonly hide in the seams of mattresses and box springs, bed linen, carpet, furniture, drapes, headboards, floorboards, baseboards, bed frames, and wall décor. Bed bugs can also be found hiding behind loose wallpaper.

Do Bed Bugs Carry Diseases And/Or Parasites?

No, bed bugs do not spread disease to humans or animals. However, severe bed bug infestation has been linked to anemia. While rare, bed bug-borne anemia is a risk for victims dealing with a severe infestation.

The bed bug bite generally does not cause more than a mild allergic reaction. Former victims have reported pinpoint-sized red bumps on the upper back, arms, neck, and chest. The bites can cause mild to moderate itchiness. Medical experts believe the allergic reaction is related to saliva that is injected into the host’s skin prior to the feeding. Bed bug saliva contains an anesthetic, a substance that reduces the host’s sensitivity to discomfort. The main purpose of aesthetic-based saliva is to help the bed bug avoid detection when feeding.

What Is The Most Recommended Pest Control Solution For Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs target people from all walks of life. When an infestation becomes so severe, the bed bugs will begin to look for new hosts. When the infestation reaches this point, anyone visiting the impacted establishment is at risk of becoming a host. Contrary to belief, cleanliness and neatness have nothing to do with a bed bug infestation. In fact, 5-star resorts and owners of luxurious homes have reported bed bug infestations. No property and no person is 100 percent safe from bed bugs.

People visiting infested properties are at the highest risk of becoming victimized by bed bugs. Awareness is the best way to keep bed bugs at bay. In the meantime, owners must address their bed bug infestations.

Professional bed bug management is the solution. However, to maximize the results, we recommend the client getting and staying involved in the process. Clients can actually help the lead exterminator by treating their infested bed linen, drapery, stuffed animals, clothing, and carpet.

How The Client Can Help Eradicate Bed Bugs?

The client can start by removing the infested bed linen and placing it in a plastic garbage bag. Seal the top before transporting it to the laundry room. Set the washer for at least 20 minutes and select the maximum temperature setting. Gently place the bed linen in the washer. Hot water at temperatures up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes should eradicate the bed bugs. Follow up with a 20-minute drying on the maximum temperature setting.

Steam-cleaning the carpet will also help eradicate the infestation. If possible, experts recommend treating the mattress and box springs with steam as well.

Eco-Friendly Bed Bug Treatment

• Cost-Efficient – An affordable, effective treatment to eradicate bed bugs
• Professional Implementation – Heat is generated by large heaters is forced into the home utilizing large fans and flex duct
• Chemical And Non-Chemical – Non-chemical treatments rely on steam at approximately 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Chemical treatments combine steam and naturally occurring diatomaceous earth to eradicate bed bugs

Does DIY Pest Control Work For Bed Bug Infestation?

Do-it-yourself bed bug treatment may be effective in mild cases. Natural and chemical pesticides at the DIY level are low potency formulas capable of eradicating a few dozen bed bugs. For severe infestation, exterminators recommend professional pest control, which utilizes industrial-strength pesticides.

Is Professional Bed Bug Treatment Expensive?

It does not need to be expensive. Our exterminators work with the client to customize a bed bug strategy based on the evidence collected during the inspection.

How Do Exterminators Prevent Future Bed Bug Infestation?

Awareness is the best defense against bed bug infestation. When visiting high-risk establishments – hotels, college dorms, and inns – be aware of your surroundings at all times. Inspect your belongings immediately after exiting the establishment. Look for the common signs – fecal droppings, translucent eggs, dried blood, and exoskeletons – of an infestation.

If you have any other pest control issues please check out other services.