Why Do-It-Yourself Bed Bug Control Doesn’t Work In Hartford

March 31, 2020

In: Bed Bugs

Even the cleanest most well-kept homes can prove vulnerable to bed bugs. Infestations can be hard to spot. What some deem “tell tale” bite marks can take as long as 14 days to develop and are often indistinguishable from mosquito or flea bites. Additionally, bed bugs are active at night. The most likely sign of an infestation will be sightings of exoskeletons or rust colored blood spots on sheets. When an infestation becomes more advanced, you may detect a sweet musty odor in the air. Keep in mind that the more time that passes with bed bugs in your home, the more the costs associated with getting rid of them rise. At the first spotting of a bed bug, it’s time to call a professional.

Downfalls of DIY Methods For Bed Bug Control

Many homeowners try to get rid of these pests on their own, but efforts often either fall short or exacerbate the problem. Popular tactics include vacuuming, caulking and sealing cracks, the use of clothes dryers, or even freezing. Unfortunately, these methods rely upon homeowners locating the source of the infestation. With adults as small as ¼ inch, eggs only 1/32 of an inch long, and newly hatched bugs almost colorless, bed bugs are tough to spot. They are also rarely contained to materials that can be easily put in the dryer or freezer. The aptly named “bed bug” is often found in beds, but sheets and mattresses are only the tip of the iceberg. Bed bugs infest everything including clothes, toys, books, baseboards, window casings, picture frames, furniture, loose wallpaper, and cracks in plaster. Even with the most careful cleaning, eggs and bugs will be missed.

When vacuuming for bed bugs, you must remove, seal, and discard the vacuum bag immediately after cleaning. Freezing can be ineffective unless the temperature remains below zero degrees Fahrenheit for at least four consecutive days. Zippered mattress covers can help. If bugs are trapped within the cover, the biting should stop. However, since bed bugs can live for months without food, covers should stay in place for at least a year. Mattress covers are only effective if the infestation is limited to the mattress itself. In most cases, once bed bugs are detected, they will have already spread to other areas of the bedroom and the home.

Pitfalls Of Pesticides

Applying pesticides by yourself is not recommended. If done improperly, this method can prove more than ineffective. In some cases pesticide application can complicate the existing issue.

• Over the counter products are likely to disperse bed bugs resulting in more difficult treatment at a later date. 

• Foggers and bug bombs are not effective and can worsen conditions if used. 

• Botanical insecticides containing natural pyrethrins repel insects and can control bed bugs for a period of time but quickly deteriorate and do not provide ongoing protection. 

• Petroleum carriers in aerosol pyrethrins can damage finishes and furniture. 

• Inorganic materials can provide long term control in low humidity but have low repellency and leave an undesirable film unless carefully applied. 

• Synthetic pyrethroids have better control and cause less damage, however, recent studies show bed bugs are building resistance and tolerance to several of the commonly used synthetics.

Even when an insecticide is effective, it can take up to ten days to kill the bugs. During that time, females continue to deposit up to 50 viable eggs at a time into crevices, floors, walls, and bed frames. Insecticides should never be used on mattresses. It is not advisable for homeowners to attempt to treat for bed bugs. If more than one bug is found, treatment by a pest management professional is strongly recommended.

Proven Solutions For Bed Bug Infestations In Hartford

The one true way to make sure you get every last bed bug and egg is with the help of the professionals: American Pest Solutions. Immediate assistance is available with free evaluations, Saturday service, and a prompt 24 hour answering service. Bed bugs are a serious problem that requires serious solutions. With American Pest Solutions on the job, you won’t have another worry about current or future infestations. Our board certified entomologist designs and engineers home pest control plans with a focus on prevention. Call today to protect your home from invasion.