Get The Facts: 3 Interesting Facts About Bed Bugs You Need To Know
Many homeowners will call an exterminator after seeing a few bugs in their house. Unfortunately, seeing a bed bug in the home is a bit more challenging. Once one of these small bugs is in the home, you can guarantee you will have an infestation that needs to be addressed immediately. Thankfully, a proper understanding of these small bugs will help you determine the importance of fast inspections and treatment. Here are a few facts about bedbugs you NEED to know:
They Don't Look Like Other Bugs
First and foremost, you need to understand bed bugs do not look like other bugs. Flies and spiders have definite shapes and varying sizes, so most people are capable of seeing and documenting these types of bugs. However, bed bugs have a more distinct shape and size that resembles a flat apple seed.
On average, adult bed bugs will measure around 5 to 7 mm long. Their flat, oval-shaped body allows them to make even the smallest and narrowest crack or crevice a home. This ability to hide makes them very difficult to see.
Bites May Be The First Sign
Another fact you need to know about bed bugs is that you may not realize you have an issue in the home until you see bites on your skin. These bites can be the first sign of an infestation.
The bites look different on different people, but most bites from bed bugs will look like red small spots on the skin. These red spots occur after the bug injects coagulant into the skin, which clots the blood. Multiple bites across the skin will resemble rashes.
If you have a bed bug problem, bites may occur on any area of the skin that is exposed. The upper body, including the face, neck, chest, and arms, is likely to have bites. Also, bed bugs may bite on the legs and ankles if they are exposed at night.
They Affect More Than Just Beds
Last but not least, it is important to note that bed bugs do not only affect beds. These small bugs are capable of infesting many of your furniture, belongings, and clothing. As a matter of fact, you may have brought the bugs into your home through a suitcase during a recent stay away from your home.
If you believe you may have an infestation, start inspecting your beds. Remove linens and use a flashlight to illuminate all the cracks and crevices on your mattress and foundation. Check pillows, as well. Inspect window treatments, lamp shades, and even furniture in your home.
You may see the actual bugs or you may find small spots of your blood on your bed and furniture. These spots are also a sign something is biting you.
Understanding bed bugs is helpful for eradicating an infestation. This guide and the help of professionals will help you rid your home of bed bugs.
