Bed Bugs 101: The information you need to know

Almost looking like apple seeds, bed bugs can be a nuisance in many ways. People often confuse bed bugs and termites. While both are nasty pets, there are major differences too. Termites feed on wood, while bed bugs survive on the blood of other animals and humans. Because of the name, people often assume that bed bugs are only found in and around the bed, which is a myth. Bed bugs can hitchhike and travel far. These insects are found in planes, trains, buses, and other public areas and could travel to your home through clothing and luggage bags. So, will alcohol kill bed bugs? What are the signs of infestation? We are sharing the key information you need to know. 

What are the signs?

Like many pests, bed bugs are most active at night. You may find fecal spots on your walls, mattress, and walls, which could appear brown or reddish. Signs also include finding exoskeletons and a strange odor. Bed bug bites are known to cause itchiness, although you wouldn’t have to worry about diseases. Blood marks and stains can be found on linens and sheets. 

Will alcohol help?

While alcohol can kill bed bugs, it’s not a permanent solution. You could kill a few insects by soaking in alcohol, but the actual problem will continue to persist. Also, using alcohol on furniture comes with its risks. 

Should you call pest control?

The short answer is yes. Even if you find pesticides online or in local stores, you shouldn’t use these without experience and expertise on your side. A professional pest control company can use a wide range of methods to kill bed bugs, including fumigation, cryogenic freezing, and heat treatments. As needed, the professionals can use EPA-registered chemicals. 

Can you prevent bed bugs?

While it can be hard to prevent bed bugs from entering your home entirely, you can take a few steps. Firstly, clean your luggage every time you return from a trip. Getting rid of clutter may also help, as that could provide more hiding spaces. It is a common misconception that bed bugs thrive in dirty areas, but more clutter only makes survival easy for these insects. If you have evident signs of bed bugs, don’t delay calling pest control. 

Multiple treatments are often necessary to get rid of bed bugs, but paying for pest control is worth it.  

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