Bed bugs multiply fast and infest even the cleanest dwellings, not just cluttered or dirty areas. Beds, clothing, furniture, and rugs are common places to find bed bugs. According to the bed bug survey conducted by National Pest Management Association, bed bugs exist anywhere there are people.
Where Do You Find Bed Bugs?
Nursing homes, office buildings, and schools have the highest cases of infestation. However, bed bugs are also found in movie theaters, retail stores, and even hospitals and doctors office. The critters travel by attaching themselves to bags, clothes, luggage, and even bodies. Having existed for over 3,500 years, bed bugs are found all over the world and they won’t be going anywhere anytime soon.
Identifying Bed Bugs
Adult bed bugs are oval, flat and look like apple seeds. They can grow larger after feeding and their colors range in different shades of brown. In the absence of visual bugs, brown spots and mottled skin might exist. Most don’t realize an infestation occurred until they are bitten.
How to Prevent a Bed Bug Infestation
1) Inspect hotel rooms before unpacking by pulling back the sheets and checking the bed, box spring and around the headboard. Once back home, unpack suitcases outside if an infestation is likely.
2) After purchasing furniture or used items and before lugging them home, check for bed bugs. This also includes furniture bought from warehouses and used furniture.
3) Bed bugs also attach themselves to pets and other wild animals. Check your pets for bugs that have grabbed onto their fur before allowing them in the house.
4) They prefer dark crevices. Regularly inspect beds and box spring seems. Encase them in zippered protectors so it’s harder for bugs to infest.
5) Save the spiders! Spiders are a natural predator to bed bugs.
These bloodsucking critters prefer feeding on humans. They are tough to eliminate and developed a resistance to human pesticides. Preventing a bed bug infestation is key to keeping the critters away.