How to Get Rid of Bedbugs

Bedbugs are small, oval-shaped insects that feed on blood. After they eat, they swell up and take on a reddish color. Bedbugs can’t jump, but they scatter quickly. Many infestations occur when people bring bedbugs into their home after being in a home or hotel that had bedbugs. In addition to itchy bites, there are several other early signs of bedbugs. These include bloodstains on sheets and pillow cases, fecal matter in areas where the bugs hide, and a musty odor that the bugs produce with their glands.

Once you know you have bedbugs, you’ll want to begin the process of getting rid of them immediately. If you’re renting, be sure your property manager knows about the problem. The property manager may have to help you get rid of them and — if you’re living in an apartment building — your neighbors will also need to follow a treatment plan. Bedbugs have developed an immunity to many products we use to successfully get rid of other household pests, such as fleas and ticks. You’ll want to use a combination of methods to effectively get rid of bedbugs. Completely ridding your home of bedbugs can take several months to an entire year. Let’s look at the steps you’ll need to follow to get rid of bedbugs.

Always be careful when returning home from traveling to ensure you’re not bringing bedbugs into your home. Launder all your traveling clothes and carefully inspect your luggage. If you notice any evidence of bedbugs, put the luggage in bags and treat them with sunlight. Also, be careful when guests stay with you. Carefully check and wash bedding when they leave. Vacuum any carpet in the guests’ bedrooms. Finally, be careful when purchasing used furniture and bedding. Just to be safe, you may want to seal used items in plastic bags and treat them with sunlight.