Although small, bed bugs are one of the most feared bugs in America. Approximately 20 percent of homes and hotels experience bed bugs at some point during the year, and unfortunately, they are most common in the southeastern United States. While you may think that bed bugs will never strike your home, it’s always good to be prepared. Let’s explore common myths about bed bugs and set the record straight:
Myth: Bed bugs only infest beds.
Fact: Once bed bugs are introduced into a home, they travel far and wide. In addition to beds, common hiding spots include sofas, chairs, curtains, backpacks, and suitcases. Bed bugs also like to hide behind baseboards, in picture frames, or behind wallpaper.
Myth: Bed bugs are only found in dirty places.
Fact: People often think that bed bugs are attracted to dirt and grime, but that isn’t the case at all. Even a super-clean house can fall victim to bed bugs. Bed bugs are attracted to warmth and carbon dioxide, as they indicate that a living host is in the area. Interestingly, bed bugs are also partial to dark colors like black and red.
Myth: Bed bugs are too small to be seen.
Fact: The reason it’s hard to see bed bugs isn’t because the naked eye can’t see them, but instead because they typically hide during the day. Bed bugs are most active at night when people are sleeping. If you spot a bug that is reddish-brown, flat, and about the size of an apple seed with six legs, it may be a bed bug.
Myth: Bed bugs can fly and jump.
Fact: However, they don’t have wings, so they can’t fly and aren’t good at jumping either. They crawl very quickly, however, and can scale furniture and beds without a problem. Bed bugs are known as “silent hitchhikers” and travel from place to place by attaching themselves to clothing or luggage.
Myth: Bed bugs transmit diseases.
Fact: While they bite and cause irritation, bed bugs do not carry infectious diseases. That doesn’t mean they are not harmful, though; bites can cause allergic reactions and secondary skin infections. In addition, people with bed bug infestations often lose sleep and experience anxiety.
Myth: Over-the-counter products will get rid of bed bugs.
Fact: However, these stubborn pests require more than DIY pest control; professional extermination is needed. Pest control professionals know where to look for bed bugs so they can determine the extent of the infestation and use the appropriate treatments. In addition to professional treatment, washing clothing and bedding in hot water and drying them in high heat is also recommended.
If you notice signs of bed bugs, HomePro is here to help. Contact us for a free bed bug inspection. Our experts will examine all suspicious areas in your home, as well as other common hiding spots, and create a custom plan of attack. For more information, call us at (757) 499-1078 or contact us online.