Bed Bug Myths vs. Facts
There’s no denying that bed bugs are one of the most dreaded pests in the nation. That said, there is a lot of false information about these pests, largely due to the fact that they are so feared. Bed Bug Awareness Week is here, making now the time to learn which bed bug myths are downright false. The team at New Mexico Pest Control wants to share their expert info to help dispel info about bed bugs. Keep reading to learn more!
The Truth About Bed Bugs
Because so much false information is spread about bed bugs, it’s important to know the facts. Here are some of the bed bug myths we hear about the most:
- Bed bugs are attracted to messy or dirty homes. Unfortunately, anyone can get a bed bug problem. Bed bugs are not attracted to filth–they’re attracted to warmth and blood!
- Bed bugs only feed at night. Bed bugs usually feed at night when people are at rest, but they are not nocturnal and will come out to feed during the day in some circumstances.
- Bed bugs are only found in your bedroom. Bed bugs tend to congregate near areas where people rest. This includes sofas, chairs, cracks in the wall, and even power outlets!
- Bed bugs are too small to see with the naked eye. Adult bed bugs are perfectly capable of being seen. They are the size of an apple seed and often grouped together, making it easier to spot an infestation.
- Bed bugs can jump and fly. Fortunately, bed bugs cannot jump or fly as other pests can. They have underdeveloped wings, and instead move from one spot to the other by crawling or latching onto a moving item.
- Bed bugs latch or travel on people. Although bed bugs are known to hitch a ride on your purse or suitcase, they do not attach to people as fleas or ticks do.
- You can get rid of bed bugs with DIY methods. Unfortunately, you can not get rid of bed bugs on your own. It’s important to always enlist the help of a professional pest control company for bed bug extermination.
- Bed bug bites can transmit dangerous diseases. Bed bugs may cause you anxiety and even itchiness, but their bites do not transmit disease as other pests do.
- Bed bugs can live a year without feeding. While they definitely can survive months without a meal, they won’t make it through an entire year unless under optimal conditions.
- You should get rid of your mattress and clothing if you have bed bugs. This could not be further from the truth! Getting rid of infested items does not solve the problem, and in fact could spread bed bugs around your property even more!
You Have Bed Bugs–Now What?
Bed bug problems can happen to anyone. Thankfully, there are several ways to possibly avoid a problem. Take caution when purchasing used furniture unless you inspect it for bed bugs first. In addition, take precautions when traveling. This includes inspecting your hotel room for bugs and being careful when unpacking your suitcase. Lastly, get regular inspections from a professional pest control company who knows exactly what to look for in your Santa Fe property. For more information from our bed bug experts, contact our team today!
