Tips For Getting Rid Of Bed Bugs
“Sleep tight, don’t let the bed bugs bite”. How many times have you heard that expression? But getting rid of bed bugs can be hard work once they’ve made a cozy home within your home. Here are the top tips from Action Property Inspections for putting bed bugs to sleep – for good!
What are bed bugs?
Bed bugs are small creatures that move quickly over floors and walls, feeding on the blood of animals and humans. No matter how clean your house is, you may still have the unfortunate experience of a bed bug infestation! As per their name, it is most common to see them active at night and they have tendency to bite us whilst we are asleep. They do not transmit disease, but they can cause itchy irritations similar to mosquito bites.
How to get rid of bed bugs
Bed bugs are almost impossible to see. They also breed quickly, so getting rid of them can be difficult. There are several things that you can do in and around your home, however, to make it very difficult for them to hang around.
Wash your bedding
Washing all of your bedding in hot water will kill any that are clinging on. Placing blankets and other sheets in a hot dryer will also help. Whilst you are at it, wipe down your bed frame and give everything a good vacuum or steam clean.
Air your mattress
Give your mattress a good airing while you have the linen in the wash. Wiping the mattress down will clear away any remaining bugs, whilst putting it out in the warm sunlight helps freshen and sterilize. Depending on the level of infestation and the age of your mattress, you may even want to invest in a new one.
Clean, clean and clean again
Ridding your home of old furniture is one way to get rid of any hiding nasties. Unfortunately, though, bed bugs can find safety in cracks and crevices, under carpet and even in wall spaces. Take time to seal up any holes and wash down walls and floors. Bed bugs can make their way from outside, so do your best to close off any possible entries.
Leave the pesticides to the experts
There are a number of pesticides available that can be used to treat bed bugs. When applied indoors, special care should be taken, particularly if your home has pets and children. In these instances, treatment really should be left to the experts. Whilst an exterminator can be costly, they will be effective and can organise to return to your home periodically to monitor areas before any problems become unmanageable. If you go it alone, you might spend months trying to get rid of them, only to find they are resistant to your choice of store-bought sprays.