Bedbugs are REAL!

Bedbugs are all over the news these days, because apparently bedbugs are all over everything these days. The rise in bedbug infestations is credited to increased travel, more immigration and the fact that the hardy bugs are tough to eliminate. Bedbugs can live for as long as a year without feeding, and their food of choice is human blood. They hide in seams, cracks and crevices and are expert at hitching rides in suitcases, briefcases, gym bags, purses or on your clothes. This allows them to spread from hotels to homes to schools and offices.

These little brown bugs cannot be stopped by pesticides alone. In a span of about 4 months, just two bedbugs can produce over 300 bugs and lay an additional 1,000 eggs. They like dark places, and like to feed in the dark.

If you’re getting itchy bites, or see evidence of bedbugs you should call a pest control professional. In addition to any chemical treatments, you’ll need to take some other measures to eliminate these pesky parasites. You’ll need to seal your mattress and pillows with a zippered cover to trap bugs and nymphs and prevent them from feeding. Wash linens and be sure to dry them in a hot dryer for at least 20 minutes. Vacuuming can help, although the eggs are hard to remove. After vacuuming, seal the vacuum bag in a Ziploc bag and dispose of it outside. Sticky tape or glue boards can be used around your bed to catch the bugs, and allow you to see if they are still moving around.

Remember to check your room if you are traveling, and even be on the lookout for bedbugs in the office or gym. An infestation can easily be transported back to your home from one of these places.