It’s easy to see why there are so many bed bug myths floating around. These infamous insects dine on blood to survive, they’re tiny enough to be almost invisible, and once they infest a home or business, it’s difficult to get rid of them without professional help. We’re here to put some common bed bug myths to rest and help you learn how to avoid bed bugs.
Myth #1: They only live in dirty places.
When considering what attracts bed bugs, people often think the pests are drawn to filth. The truth is that these bugs can live in the cleanest homes and businesses. So, does a dirty room attract bed bugs? The answer is yes and no. Carbon dioxide draws them to our general vicinity, and all bed bugs are not attracted to a single blood type, although they do tend to choose the same blood type they’ve dined on in the past. However, clutter can help them stay there undetected. Clearing cardboard boxes and excess junk from the insides of our homes can make it easier to spot these highly invasive pests.
Myth #2: They only live in or on mattresses.
Bed bugs are avid travelers, hopping into suitcases, purses, tote bags, briefcases and backpacks in search of new homes to invade. They can be found lurking on box springs, sheets and blankets, but you’ll also find them hiding out in areas ranging from the space behind your baseboards to sofas, nightstands and dressers.
Myth #3: They only bite at night.
Bed bugs are nocturnal. However, if warm bodies are around and they’re hungry, it doesn’t matter what time of day it is. It’s just easier for them to feast on your blood when you’re sleeping and oblivious to their presence. That’s why it’s a good idea to look for these signs of a bed bug infestation:
- Shed bed bug skins
- An unexplained, funky odor
- Itchy marks on your skin, especially around the shoulders and arms
- Small rusty-looking spots (bloodstains) on your mattress and bedding
You may also spot bed bugs, but their minuscule size makes these opportunities few and far between. They’re light brown before eating; afterward, they darken to a reddish-brown color. Their oval-shaped bodies measure about 1/16″ long. If you suspect an infestation, grab a flashlight and start inspecting the crevices of hard-surfaced and upholstered furniture alike.
Myth #4: They spread disease.
Bedbugs may have a reputation as disease spreaders, but they actually do not transmit diseases. They can carry some strains of bacteria, but there is no evidence that bedbugs have passed diseases on to anyone. Their bite can cause mild allergic reactions like itching, inflammation and rashes.
Myth #5: You can get rid of them with a spray.
While there are over-the-counter anti-bed bug products on the market, there really is no OTC solution to this daunting household problem. Heat is commonly used to eradicate bed bugs from a home or business, but it isn’t safe to try this method on your own. In fact, some homeowners have started fires after having their households taken over by these tiny pests. It’s essential to contact a reputable pest control company at the first sign of bed bugs to help reduce costly damage.
Banish Bed Bugs with Las Vegas Pest Control
From knowing what attracts bed bugs to understanding the signs of an infestation, arming yourself with knowledge is essential. We hope that dispelling common bed bug myths helps prevent infestations at your home or business. If you do find evidence of a bed bug invasion, contact Las Vegas Pest Control right away. We’ll eliminate an existing infestation and prevent it from happening again. It starts with a free estimate, so give us a call or visit us online today!
