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Bed Bug Habits and Prevention

Think you have bed bugs? Read below to learn how to identify and eradicate them.

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What are Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are small, oval-shaped insects that feed on the blood of mammals. They are most commonly found in warm and humid environments and can be challenging to detect and treat. Bed bugs are nocturnal, which is terrible news for us, and they prefer to feed on us in our sleep. If you are tossing and turning all night long and awake with zig-zag groups of red whelps on your skin, chances are you have bed bugs.

There are many types of ants in Charleston, SC. The most common include the red imported fire ant, the Argentine ant, and the carpenter ant. Each type of ant has its own unique behaviors and preferences.

Bed Bugs Habitat

Bed bugs like warm and humid environments, making them difficult to detect and if left untreated they can propagate at an alarming rate. Bed bugs can be found in homes, hotels, hospitals, college dorms and other places where people gather. Charleston, SC is a hot spot for bed bugs since it is a popular tourist and University destination with a lot of hotels and transient activity.

Signs of an Infestation

There are several signs that may indicate that you have an infestation of bed bugs. One of the most common is the presence of small, red bites on the skin. Bed bugs can also be identified by their reddish-brown coloring and by the fact that they tend to hide in dark and secluded areas. Obviously they are found in beds, but they also infest dresser drawers, furniture, and basically any space that is dark, secluded, and warm.
  • Small, red welp like bites on the skin
  • Mold/mildew smell on bedding and furniture – like a dirty towel
  • Dark to reddish brown skin shedding and excrement in seams and corners
bed bugs habitat and prevention mattress seams
Mattress infestation showing signs of high activity.
a group of bed bugs on a wood surface
Signs of previous bed bug shedding in a dresser drawer.

Are Bed Bugs Hazardous?

Bed bugs are not considered hazardous insects but can be a nuisance. They can cause skin irritation, and itchy bites can lead to breaks in the skin, allowing for possible infection. Additionally, bed bugs can cause psychological distress, as they are challenging to detect and often lead to the infestation of an entire home or business. If you think you may have bed bugs, check all the typical hot spots, and if you’re not sure, contact a professional pest control company with the right tools to handle the job.
  • Bed bug bites can itch, and scratching can lead to secondary skin infections
  • Bed bugs create unsanitary conditions
  • Some may have allergic reactions to the bites
  • Mental distress knowing your property is infested with nasty little pests

Bed Bug or Flea Bites?

Flea Bites

They look like small, red bumps in clusters of three or four or a straight line. The bumps remain small, unlike mosquito bites. You might notice a red “halo” around the bite center. The most common places to find these bites are around the legs or ankles. Source: Healthline

Bed Bug Bites

Bed bugs bite each person differently, but the most common appearances of bed bug bites include: Raised bumps in a line, zigzag or random pattern. Pimple-like bump with a dark red center and skin tone lighter than normal surrounding it. Round bump on your skin containing a clear fluid (blister). Source: Cleveland Clinic
images showing the difference between flea bits and bed bug bites

Preventative Measures and Eradication

There are several preventative measures that you can take to avoid an infestation of bed bugs. One of the most important is to keep your home or business clean and free of clutter. You should also regularly inspect your belongings for signs of bed bugs, and if you find any, you should immediately contact a professional pest control company for treatment. There are a variety of treatment options available, but the most effective is often a combination of methods, which you can learn more about by clicking here.

Travel Tip to Keep Bed Bugs Out of Your Home

Bed Bugs are flat and can squeeze into tiny spots, even between zippers. If staying at a hotel pull back the fitted sheet and give the mattress a shake. Any bugs near the surface should be visible. You should also check for skin shedding (small flakes of reddish brown on or around furniture.
When travelling never unpack your luggage or wait until you have inspected the room. When returning home unpack into a plastic bag and transport to the laundry to wash the content at the highest heat possible (120 kills the bed bugs). Place your suitcase in a large plastic bag, seal it, and place it outside for 24 hours. The heat from the sun radiating through the sealed bag will kill the bugs. You can also purchase sprays that work well for protecting your clothing and luggage.

Over the Counter Non-Toxic Bed Bug Sprays:

  • Rest Easy Natural Bed Bug Spray
  • Harris Bed Bug Killer Spray
  • JT Eaton Kills Bed Bugs Plus
  • Eco Defense Natural Bed Bug Killer
  • Proof Natural Bed Bug Spray
  • Avenger Organics Natural Bed Bug Killer
  • Hygea Natural Exterminator Spray

NEED HELP WITH BED BUGS?

Are you dealing with bed bugs or fleas in your home or facility? Don’t wait any longer – call us today for effective bed bug extermination. Our experienced team uses proven methods to quickly and effectively eliminate bed bugs from any location, including homes, hotels, apartment complexes, condos, dorms, and assisted living facilities. Don’t live with the inconvenience and discomfort of bed bugs any longer – contact us today and get rid of them for good.

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843-225-9990

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948 Wappoo Road, Charleston, SC

Location

5355 Savannah Hwy, Ravenel, SC

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