Bed bugs are one of the worst pests to encounter in your home. They are known for hitching rides on unsuspecting passengers to move from place to place. Once they've invaded your property, they are notoriously difficult to get rid of. Read on to learn more about how to keep bed bugs away and how professional pest control can help.
D.I.Y. Bed Bug Control Tips
There are many bed bug control techniques available for your home. Here are some tips to prevent an infestation.
- Declutter your home to remove bed bug hiding places.
- Use bed bug covers or encasements on your mattress and box spring.
- Frequently wash sheets and blankets with hot water and dry them on a high heat setting.
- Vacuum regularly.
- Inspect your hotel rooms immediately upon checking in, and avoid placing luggage directly on the floor.
- Inspect clothing and bags for bed bugs after traveling on a plane or on public transportation.
When home remedies for bed bugs fail, it might be time to call a source of pest control in Denver you can trust, like Beeline Pest Control.
Pros And Cons Of Professional Bed Bug Treatment
For tough infestations, it's worth your while to work with a bed bug pest control company near you. However, there are pros and cons to professional bed bug treatment. Professionals typically use either heat or chemicals to eradicate these pests. Heat treatments kill bed bugs in all stages of their life cycle and are better suited for small to medium-sized living spaces. Heat works quickly and kills bed bugs in under 24 hours without the use of chemicals. The downside to heat treatments is that it tends to be expensive, and the high heat generated from the large heaters required can damage belongings.
Chemical bed bug treatments are highly effective and are a more affordable pest control option. A downside to the use of some chemical treatments is the need to prepare extensively prior to treatment. Family members may also experience an allergic reaction to the chemicals. With both heat and chemical treatments, there's a chance the first extermination attempt didn't kill all of the bugs. We highly recommend follow-up inspections and treatment.
Preparing For A Bed Bug Treatment
Because bed bug control solutions are invasive and often contain strong chemicals, it's important to take steps to ensure the safety of your family and pets. Here are some ways to get your home ready for your bed bug treatment.
- Sweep or vacuum the floor.
- Remove all objects from countertops and open shelving. You should make sure to store all loose items in closed cabinets, drawers, or sealed containers.
- Move all furniture at least two feet from the walls.
- Place clothing, towels, bath mats, and other linens in plastic bags, and after treatment, wash all items with hot water. Dry items in a dryer on the high heat setting for at least 30 minutes or until they are completely dry.
- Remove all pets, including fish in small bowls, from your home. Keep them out of the house for at least 12 hours post-treatment. Plants can stay in the home as well as fish in large aquariums. Just make sure to feed your fish, turn off the water pump, and cover the tank with a layer of plastic.
After a professional bed bug treatment, it's unlikely you'll encounter any more of these worrisome pests. Always be aware of your surroundings when traveling and be diligent to avoid bringing home any unwanted bed bug visitors.
Looking For Professional Help With Bed Bugs?
Don't let bed bugs keep you awake at night. Beeline Pest Control has been a go-to source of bed bug pest control in Denver since 2009. Our non-toxic pest control solutions treat bed bugs on the spot and ensure they don't return. For more information on our services or to receive a free estimate, contact us today.