Keeping Bed Bugs Away from Your Family

Bedbugs are becoming increasingly common and can be found in many places we wouldn't expect, from movie theaters and retail stores to campsites. These sneaky bugs can be a real nuisance, so it's important to take steps to protect your family, especially your little ones, from them. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Protect Against Bed Bugs

​First, inspect your home for any signs of bedbugs. Look for dark spots on furniture and bedding, as well as tiny, reddish-brown bugs. If you find any, contact a professional exterminator immediately.
 
Another way to protect your family from bedbugs is to vacuum and clean your home regularly. Vacuuming helps remove any bedbugs that may have gotten into your home, as well as their eggs. Be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag outside your home after use.
 
When you're out and about, avoid sitting or sleeping on furniture in public places. Bedbugs are often found in these settings, so it's best to be cautious. If you do get bitten, wash the affected area with soap and water and apply an antiseptic cream.
 
Finally, if you're traveling, inspect your hotel room or rental before settling in. Look for any signs of bedbugs, such as dark spots on furniture or bedding, or tiny bugs. If you find any, contact the hotel or rental management right away.
 
By taking these simple steps, you can help protect your family from bedbugs and the discomfort they can cause.

How to Tell If You Have Bed Bugs

You can tell if you have bedbugs in your home by the presence of red, itchy welts on your arms that form a line pattern. In addition to the bed, check other furniture and hard-to-reach places such as sockets and picture frames for signs of an infestation. Adult bedbugs are shaped like a lentil or apple seed, about ¼ inch long when full-grown, while babies are much smaller and colorless. Look for "bedbug dirt," resembling ground black pepper, as well as dried blood spots on the beddings from their nighttime feedings.

Educating on How to Identify Bed Bugs

Bedbugs can easily be transported to your home if another family brings in infested items. To prevent an infestation, inspect any items brought into the house such as backpacks and camping tents. Teach your children to recognize bedbugs by comparing them to an apple seed. Inform them that if they find similar bugs anywhere, including at home or a friend's place, they must let you know immediately.

What to Do When You Confirm You Have Bed Bugs

​When you have confirmed a bed bug infestation, it is essential to enlist the assistance of an expert. DIY methods are not effective in eliminating the problem. By seeking professional help at the early stages of an infestation, you can prevent more serious issues from occurring. Just because you haven't seen any evidence or been bitten for a few months doesn't mean they've gone away permanently. Bedbugs have been known to go without feeding for up to one year and female bedbugs can lay 500 eggs during their lifespan. Pest management professionals possess the appropriate tools, products, and techniques needed to treat both current and future infestations effectively. For successful bedbug treatment, contact Professional Pest Management; they guarantee a 100% success rate with their services which include creating customised treatment plans, preparing your property for treatment, carrying out treatments and follow-up visits if needed.

Catch Up on some of these other informative tips on Bed Bugs and Prevention by reading this article.