Bed Bugs
Everyone's heard the old phrase...
“Sleep well and don't let the bed bugs bite you!”
As kids, we used to hear this playful saying from our parents before bedtime, often accompanied by a gentle pinch to mimic what bed bug bites might feel like. Who would have thought that bed bugs were actually a real concern? It’s safe to say, most of us didn’t.
Unfortunately, they are very real. Bed bugs can be quite a challenge to eliminate from apartments, office spaces, buses, movie theaters—basically, anywhere people gather. This is why it’s absolutely essential to NEVER attempt to handle bed bugs on your own.
Let's address four common misconceptions about bed bugs:
1. Bed bugs bite. Contrary to what we were told, bed bugs don’t exactly “bite.” They use two straw-like tubes to pierce your skin, injecting their saliva to anesthetize the area. Within 5 to 10 minutes, an adult bed bug can complete a full blood meal before retreating to secluded spots to digest and mate.
2. Bed bugs only live in beds. While some do reside on your bed, they can be found elsewhere in your home. They don’t prefer the bed for living (though it’s where they feed) because disturbances, like making the bed, interrupt their digestion. They’re versatile and can thrive anywhere, sometimes even months without a meal. This is why skilled professionals are crucial for elimination—they know exactly where to look for both adults and tiny nymphs.
3. Bed bugs only infest dirty homes. This misconception is both persistent and harmful. Unlike other pests, bed bugs aren’t attracted to filth; instead, they’re drawn to the carbon dioxide emitted by humans. Though they favor us, they’ll feed on other warm-blooded creatures if necessary. Vigorous cleaning may help with visible bed bugs, but it’s the hidden ones that are the real challenge.
4. You’ll spot bed bugs by their bites. Not everyone reacts to bed bug bites with hives or bumps. Two people sharing a bed infested with bed bugs might have different reactions—one showing bites, the other none at all. If you notice unusual skin reactions, don’t dismiss them. It’s wise to have a professional inspect your home.
At Green Earth Pest Control, our seasoned management team has developed a comprehensive plan to eliminate these persistent pests from your home. Our expert technicians will guide you through each step, offering preparation and post-treatment advice to ensure the effectiveness of the bed bug treatment. Our commitment lies in getting the job done right the first time and providing lasting solutions to our customers.
