Good night; sleep tight. Don’t let the bedbugs bite.
The saying may be as old as the hills but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t still ring true.
Bedbugs don’t discriminate. They live in houses or apartments, in cities or the country and they certainly don’t care about your level of income.
Bedbugs are a parasitic insect that feeds on human blood. When feeding, they release a numbing agent and anticoagulant which not only prevents the blood from clotting; it makes it difficult for the host to feel.
True to their name, bed bugs are usually found under the mattress between the headboard and the box spring. The best time to check for these guys is during the middle of the night, under the mattress by the box spring and bed frame.
Calling an exterminator or having your property manager call an exterminator should be the first step in keeping these bugs at bay. However, in the meantime if you discover you have bed bugs, not to worry! Here are some tips to get rid of these vile creatures:
- Spray the bed bugs with rubbing alcohol. The alcohol kills them instantly.
- Wash your sheets, pillowcases, comforters or any other linens in hot water.
- Vacuum the entire house, paying close attention to the bed.
- Steam your mattress! The heat will kill them and then vacuum again! Don’t forget to throw away the garbage bag.
- Spot treat your home with insecticides. Be mindful of pets and small children.
- You may have to discard your mattress if after four weeks you are still having difficulty getting rid of these pests.
Of course, prevention is the first step. Be wary of second-hand furniture. I’ll be the first to admit I love Craig’s List but this may not be the best place to score a used mattress or couch.
Having bed bugs may seem exhausting but there is hope! Remember to be diligent and call pest control at the first site of infestation.
For more information about bed bugs and their prevention, please visit WikiHow How to Prevent Bed Bugs.
