Bed bugs are annoying pests. They breed quickly and efficiently. What’s more, eliminating bed bugs can take a lot of time and patience. A bed bug infestation can be embarrassing and can happen to anyone — no matter how clean an individual’s home.
At Atomic Pest Control, we’ve made it our mission to help Scottsdale AZ area homes stay free of a variety of pests, including bed bugs. So what can you do to prevent a bed bug infestation, and what should be done if your house becomes infested? We’ve complied this resource to help you get started.
Protect Your Home
The easiest way to eliminate bed bugs is to prevent them from creeping into your home. Make sure you always inspect second-hand furniture before purchasing. Couches, recliners, beds and other furnishings can be breeding grounds for the bugs. Know the tell-tale signs: reddish stains, tiny pale-yellow skins shed by nymphs or even live bugs themselves. Never bring furniture left curbside into your home; they are a notorious hotbed for the pests.
Maintaining a well-kept home can also be beneficial. Regular vacuuming, reducing clutter and thoroughly sweeping crevices can all be good bed bug deterrent methods.
For those who live in multifamily dwellings, it’s important to seal cracks and crevices. You may also find door sweeps to be helpful in preventing the bugs from making their way in from halls. Avoid public laundry facilities when possible. If you require using such facilities, be vigilant and bring your items in plastic bags. Drying your clothes in high heat can help kill any bed bugs that may attach themselves to your clothing. Always fold your clothes at home after drying to prevent further spread.
Controlling Bed Bugs
No matter how hard you try to prevent bed bugs from invading your house, the reality is your home can still be infested. Once you spot a bed bug in your home, it’s time to switch gears and start the process of controlling the creatures.
Begin by placing movable items in plastic bags. Clothes, books, etc. placed in plastic bags for several days can help kill the bugs that have migrated to them. Next, call a reputable service like Atomic Pest Control to book an appointment. Our team of professionals can help you eliminate the bed bugs from your home. Don’t throw out any furniture that can be saved. (One of our knowledgeable staff members can help you determine if your items are worth saving.) Remember to avoid using chemical sprays, as bed bugs can become immune, furthering the problem.
With a few preventative steps, you can help reduce your chance of getting bed bugs. Should you get an infestation, don’t feel embarrassed to reach out to the professionals. Contact Atomic Pest Control for your FREE Consultation.
