Preventative Pest Solutions: Bed Bugs

By Author: nick smmith
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One of the most common pest complaints in the New Jersey and New York area in recent months has been of bed bugs. There has been a state wide infestation and while you can get rid of them, the toll it takes emotionally and financially on your home is not a welcomed one. It’s always good, whether you have experienced bed bugs or not, to practice preventative pest solutions. What follows are a few steps you can take to prevent bed bugs in your home.

1. Get an understanding of bed bugs.

Bed bugs are reddish-brown with a flat, oval body that measures approximately ¼ of an inch long. They usually hide within 25 feet of the bed or usual sleeping area but over time, can spread to other areas of the room or home. Keep in mind other insects can be found near the bed so don’t jump to the assumption that you have bed bugs if you see other pests from time to time.

2. Understand how bed bugs get into your home.

The most common way for bed bugs to enter your home are by getting on your luggage, computer, clothing or other belongings ...
... when you are somewhere there is a current infestation. Be vigilant if you have stayed somewhere else, or traveled somewhere bed bugs are present, such as public transportation. Many times, moving can bring bed bugs into the home as well. They can temporarily live in moving vans or on boxes for up to a year without a food source.

3. Know where to search for bed bugs in your home.

Bed bugs are most likely to be found in buildings where occupants sleep and tend to congregate where people sleep. They can hide well in bed frames, mattresses and box springs without being deducted as well as cracks and crevices anywhere in the room. As infestations grow, they will even hide in light sockets and wall cracks. Bed bugs can move throughout communal living spaces, such as apartments, using the voids between the walls and pipe holes.

4. Take preventative pest solutions measures.

Check for bed bugs before unpacking on a trip away from home. Be sure to check the sheets and mattress for signs of bed bugs and pull back the box spring to check the bed rails. Even if you don’t see any signs, it’s a good idea not to put your suite case on the bed, but instead use a suite case holder or keep it in the bath tube. If you may have come into contact with bed bugs, change your clothing on a hard surface and put it into a tightly sealed plastic bad. Then, put the cloths directly into the washer or dryer on the highest possible setting. When you come home from vacation, vacuum your suite case thoroughly and do the same if you purchase used furniture.

It is important to remember to be vigilant and check for signs of bed bugs regularly. The sooner you spot an infestation, the easier it is to eliminate.

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