Bed Bugs
Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on human and animal blood. Typically, they are most active at night and hide in mattresses, bed frames, and cracks during the day. As a result, their presence often goes unnoticed until bites appear.
In many cases, these pests spread by hitching rides on luggage, clothing, or used furniture. Once inside, they multiply quickly. Therefore, it is important to address infestations promptly. Unfortunately, DIY methods often fall short. This is why professional intervention is essential for long-term success.
How to Identify A Bed Bug Problem
Recognizing bed bugs early can make a significant difference. Here’s what to watch for:
- Physical Appearance: Adult bed bugs are about 1/4 inch long, flat, and oval-shaped. After feeding, they turn from brown to reddish.
- Bite Marks: Look for red, itchy welts arranged in lines or clusters. Often, these appear on arms, legs, or necks.
- Fecal Spots: Tiny black or brown spots on sheets or mattresses are common indicators.
- Shed Skins: As they grow, bed bugs shed their outer layer. These translucent casings are often found near their hiding places.
- Musty Odor: In large infestations, a sweet, musty odor may be present. This comes from their scent glands.
So, by paying attention to these signs, you can catch infestations before they worsen.
Do you have unwanted pests? Let Impact help.
How to Prevent Bed Bugs
Preventing bed bugs involves a few key habits. First, be cautious when bringing used furniture or clothing into your home. Always inspect these items thoroughly. Next, during travel, avoid placing luggage on hotel beds or floors. Instead, use luggage racks and inspect the mattress seams for signs of bugs. At home, keep clutter to a minimum. This limits hiding spots and makes inspections easier. Additionally, vacuum regularly, especially around baseboards, beds, and upholstered furniture. You can also encase mattresses and box springs in bed bug-proof covers. These simple practices help reduce your risk of an infestation.
What Impact Pest Services Will Do
Inspection First
When you call Impact Pest Management for bed bug control, we bring years of experience and a proven approach to every job. We begin with a detailed inspection, identifying live bugs, eggs, fecal spots, and shed skins. This step helps us assess the size and location of the infestation accurately. Next, we develop a customized plan tailored to your specific situation.
Precise Treatments
Depending on the findings, we may use a combination of physical methods such as vacuuming and steaming, followed by safe, targeted applications in areas where bed bugs hide. These areas often include mattress seams, box springs, furniture joints, and baseboards. In addition, we offer guidance to help you prepare your home and reduce factors that contribute to infestations.
Follow-up
After the initial treatment, we perform follow-up visits to confirm elimination and monitor for any new activity. From start to finish, our technicians focus on precision, safety, and long-term results. If you suspect bed bugs, don’t wait. Contact Impact Pest Management today for a professional inspection and comprehensive treatment you can trust.