Bed Bug Control can be a difficult task. Extermination and complete eradication is determined by site contamination and preparation.
Bed bugs belong to the family of insects known as Cimicidae. All members of this family of insects feed exclusively on blood which they require in order to develop and reproduce. There are a number of closely related species in this family that feed on birds, bats and other animals. However, the species most adapted to living with humans is the common bed bug, Cimex lectularius, which is found world wide. The immature bugs go through five developmental stages before reaching maturity. A blood meal is required between each stage. As the immature bed bugs develop they continue to become larger and darker until reaching adulthood. Under favorable conditions (70-90°F), bed bugs can complete development (from egg to adult) in one and half – two months. Cool temperatures or limited access to a blood meal may extend the developmental period. Adults will typically live for just under a year. The adult females typically deposit up to 5 eggs per day depositing them in a wide variety of locations, both on and away from the bed. An adult female may lay up to 500 eggs during her lifetime.
A Thorough Inspection Is Called For
Bed bugs are nocturnal insects and lead a very cryptic lifestyle. As a result, bed bugs are often present for weeks or even months before a single bug is ever seen by the occupants of an infested structure. They live in cracks and crevices associated with bed frames, head boards, mattresses and box springs. However they also will disperse away from the bed and can live between or beneath floorboards, carpeting, under decorative moldings, in or under furniture, behind picture frames, inside wall voids, etc. There is virtually no crack too small for this insect to occupy. It is from these secluded cracks and crevices that the bugs emerge during the nighttime hours to feed on their sleeping host. The bites are typically painless and often go undetected.
Bed bugs can easily be mistaken for other blood sucking insect bites so identifying infestations are important for control. Bed bug cluster and insect excrement (both pictured above) can be found at the head of the bed on mattresses, mattress pads and box springs. Bed bug populations start at the head of the bed due to the fact that bed bugs, like mosquitoes, are attracted to humans by detected carbon dioxide.
Bed Bug Control Treatment Preparation
Bed bugs are difficult to control. A team effort is needed for proper control. Remember, bed bugs can be brought home with clothing or on almost any item. You should follow the preparation guide as much as possible.
- Start by making sure the entire floor is free of items. toys, clothing or any stored item,Including in the closets.
- Vacuum the entire floor area as well as all the furniture. Under the sofa and chair cushions, as well as under the furniture. Empty the vacuum cleaner into the trash outside.
- Dismantle all beds, putting the box spring and mattress upright against the wall. Take all items out of the bedroom chests and clean inside the drawers.
- Wash all bed linen and clothes thoroughly. Use 2 cycles in the dryer on high heat.
- You must leave the house and not return for at least 4 hours.
We do this in 2 applications 3 weeks apart. The previous regiment must be followed for both applications.
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