Blog Layout

3 Common Myths About Bedbugs

Bed Bugs Myths — Newburgh, IN — Pass Pest Control

Maintaining your home can be challenging at times, especially since so many tasks are necessary. Unfortunately, some homeowners do not place enough importance on pest control.

While shocking to learn, an estimated 97 percent of all pest professionals have treated bedbugs. These bugs are becoming more common and more problematic each year, but many people lack a real understanding of bedbugs. By debunking these common myths, you will understand the signs, preventative measures, and treatment options for bedbugs.

1. Bedbugs Only Infest Beds

One of the most common myths associated with bedbugs is that they only infest beds. Focusing on your bed when inspecting for these bugs is smart, but it is not the only area these unwanted guests can visit.

As a matter of fact, bedbugs can infest numerous areas of your home, clothing, and vehicle. If you are concerned about these pests in your home, make sure to inspect the following locations:

Head and footboards of beds
Bed linens
Mattress and box spring
Nightstand
Chairs, sofas, and loveseats
Window treatments
Carpeting and rugs
Baseboards
Closets
Clothing
Luggage
Handbags

Bedbugs may create homes in any of the above areas, but they can also infest your vehicle. If you have traveled recently, consider inspecting the floors and seats of your vehicle for bedbugs.

2. You Cannot Actually See Bedbugs

Another common misconception you may believe is that bedbugs are similar to dust mites, meaning that you are unable to see them. This is not true — you can see bedbugs and the damage left behind by these unappealing pests.

Bedbugs measure approximately 5 to 7 mm long, which is about the size of an apple seed. They have a flat body that is shaped like an oval and are usually a reddish brown in color. If you see one or more of these bugs in your home, contact a professional to make a plan of action for treatment.

The actual sight of a bug is not the only sign of an infestation. Because bedbugs will bite, feeding off your skin and blood, you may notice light spots of blood on your sheets, mattress, or furniture. As with any living creature, bedbugs will leave behind fecal matter.

If you have an infestation, you may notice brown spots with hints of red on bedding and other areas of your home. Because of the potential buildup of bloody residue and fecal matter, an infestation can create a foul odor in your home.

3. Bug Bombs Are Effective Treatments

Visit your local home improvement, hardware store, or discount retailer and you will find a large selection of pesticides and bug removal products.

While some of these are effective in certain situations, DIY treatments that are sold in stores are not the best solution for your home's bedbug infestation. Once the pesticide is released, bedbugs will move deeper into surfaces, entering smaller cracks and crevices to effectively hide from the fog.

Thermal remediation uses heat to eradicate a bedbug infestation. The excessively high temperatures create heat that is capable of killing bedbugs — whether they are out in the open or hidden deep within your home. Compared to DIY bug bombs, thermal remediation is more effective and safer to use against a bedbug infestation.

Bedbugs are common but not fully understood by most people. To learn more about these unappealing, problematic pests, contact the pest professionals at Pass Pest Control today. We offer treatments that work to eradicate bedbugs from your home. Please let us know what questions and concerns you have about your pest situation. We will be happy to answer them and help in any way we can.

< Older Post Newer Post >

Wardrobe Worries: Five Tips to Keep Moths at Bay

05 Apr, 2024

Moths have a tendency to get into homes and stay there for a long time. Here are five steps you can take to keep moths out of your home for good.

The Benefits of Keeping Your Yard Mosquito-Free

11 Mar, 2024

Pesky intruders can quickly put a damper on our outdoor fun. Read this blog post to explore the benefits of keeping your yard mosquito-free.

How To Identify And Keep Rats Away From Your Home And Pets

14 Feb, 2024

A rat infestation can be a nuisance for your family and pets. Discover valuable tips on how to keep rats away from your home by reading our blog.

The Endless Battle Against German Cockroaches

24 Jan, 2024

If you are struggling to eliminate German cockroaches, you are not alone. Delve into why German cockroaches are so hard to get rid of and what you can do.

5 Valuable Reasons To Invest in Pest Control at the Office

18 Dec, 2023

The office deserves proper pest control for many of the same reasons that the home does. Read this blog for reasons to invest in office pest control.

Why Are Rodents Tough To Eradicate?

15 Nov, 2023

Why can't you get rid of rodents by yourself? Discover the unique characteristics and survival strategies that make rodents such formidable opponents.

Stink Bugs

13 Oct, 2023

Although fall signals the arrival of many wonderful things – football and cooler temperatures, stink bugs are not one of them. These small, mottled gray-brownish bugs try to find a way into your house once the cooler temperatures arrive. Adult stink bugs can reach almost 2 centimeters in length and are nearly as wide as they are long. However, they appear even larger because their legs extend from the sides. Stink bugs were first collected in the Untied States in the fall of 1996 and are now most prevalent in the mid-Atlantic region. They have been identified in 44 states as well as the District of Columbia. Their name is from the bugs’ tendency to release an odor when disturbed or crushed. The odor is produced in a gland in their abdomen. You will often find stink bugs on a warmer day, after a cold snap, around your doors and windows. Their arrival seems to coincide with the harvesting of agriculture crops. To prevent these pests from entering your home, seal all cracks around windows, doors, siding, utility pipes and other openings. It is best to use a quality silicone or silicone-latex caulk. Any tears or holes in screens on windows and doors should be repaired or replaced. Since they are attracted to light, change any exterior lighting to less-attractive yellow bulbs or sodium vapor lights to try to keep the stink bugs at bay. Once stink bugs have entered your home, they may congregate almost anywhere, on furniture, under beds and sofas, on windows, and in the attic. They will not cause structural damage, nor will they reproduce in homes. They do not bite people or pets. Stinkbugs are not known to transmit disease or cause physical harm. Do not smash stink bugs as they will release an odor when you do so. Use your vacuum cleaner to remove them. Be sure to clean or empty the vacuum cleaner’s canister once finished. The best course of action is to find out how stink bugs are entering your home and eliminate the option. Contact Pass Pest Control to see what pest proofing options will work best for you and your home.