June is here, and with it comes National Bed Bug Prevention Day. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about bed bug prevention and helping you keep these pesky pests out of your home. At Werner Pest, we are committed to providing you with the best tips and tricks to ensure your home stays bed bug-free. Let’s dive into what bed bugs are, how to prevent them, and what to do if you find them in your home.
What Are Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They are typically about the size of an apple seed and are known for their ability to hide in small crevices and cracks. Bed bugs are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night, making them difficult to detect.
Why Should You Care?
While bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases, their bites can cause itching, discomfort, and even allergic reactions. Additionally, a bed bug infestation can be challenging and costly to eliminate. Therefore, prevention is key to avoiding these unwelcome guests in your home.
Tips for Preventing Bed Bugs
1. Inspect Second-Hand Furniture
Before bringing any second-hand furniture into your home, inspect it thoroughly for signs of bed bugs. Check seams, crevices, and any other small spaces where bed bugs might hide. It is best to avoid picking up discarded furniture from the curb, as it could be infested.
2. Be Cautious When Traveling
Travel is one of the most common ways bed bugs spread. When staying in hotels or other accommodations, inspect the mattress, headboard, and furniture for any signs of bed bugs. Keep your luggage off the floor and use a luggage rack if available. When you return home, wash and dry your clothes on high heat to kill any potential hitchhikers.
3. Use Protective Covers
Invest in high-quality protective covers for your mattresses and box springs. These covers can help prevent bed bugs from taking up residence in your bedding. Be sure to choose covers that are specifically designed to be bed bug-proof.
4. Reduce Clutter
Clutter provides ample hiding spots for bed bugs. Keep your home tidy and reduce clutter, especially in your bedroom. This will make it easier to spot any potential bed bug activity and eliminate their hiding places.
5. Regular Inspections
Conduct regular inspections of your home, focusing on common bed bug hiding spots such as mattresses, box springs, bed frames, and furniture. Look for signs such as tiny blood stains, dark spots (bed bug excrement), and shed skins.
What to Do If You Find Bed Bugs
If you suspect you have a bed bug infestation, it is important to act quickly. Here are the steps you should take:
1. Confirm the Infestation
Look for physical signs of bed bugs. If you are unsure, consider contacting a pest control professional to perform an inspection.
2. Isolate Infested Items
Remove and isolate any infested items, such as bedding, clothing, and furniture. Wash and dry these items on high heat to kill bed bugs and their eggs.
3. Vacuum Thoroughly
Vacuum your home thoroughly, paying special attention to cracks, crevices, and other potential hiding spots. Dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister immediately after use to prevent bed bugs from escaping.
4. Contact Werner Pest
For effective bed bug treatment, contact Werner Pest. Our team of professionals has the expertise and tools needed to eliminate bed bugs from your home. We use safe and effective methods to ensure your home is bed bug-free.
Contact Us Today!
Do not let bed bugs ruin your peace of mind. Celebrate National Bed Bug Prevention Day by taking proactive steps to protect your home. If you suspect a bed bug infestation or want to learn more about preventing these pests, contact Werner Pest today.