Bed bugs are a very real threat. We’ve all heard horror stories on the news about people traveling, staying in a hotel, and experiencing a bed bug infestation. With the holidays coming, this is a real problem that everybody needs to take seriously. Bed bugs can get into your clothes or luggage and migrate into your home or the homes of your friends and family! To help combat bed bug infestations, it is important to educate yourself. Let’s take a look at these common myths about bed bugs that are widespread throughout Portland:
Myth #1 – Bed Bugs are Invisible
Perhaps the old “Don’t let the bed bugs bite” adage from our youth has drummed up this misconception, but bed bugs are not invisible. They may be difficult to spot at first, but adult bed bugs are very visible. Bed bugs are reddish-brown and look something like a tiny beetle. They’re either thin and flat or bloated if they’ve just had a blood meal. Look for bed bugs, brown stains, or their droppings in the folds of sheets, particularly where the mattress meets the box spring.
Myth #2 – Bed Bugs Can Fly
Most people seem to believe that bed bugs can fly. They most certainly cannot. They have no wings, therefore they cannot fly. They can’t even jump, but that doesn’t mean they can’t get around your home.
Myth #3 – Only Dirty Homes get Bed Bugs
This is probably the most common myth, and not just in South Portland. People believe that getting an infestation is something that only happens to dirty homes or hotels. But bed bugs don’t discriminate. They just want blood. Clean people and dirty people alike can be fed on while they sleep, so taking a shower and thoroughly cleaning the house every night before bed won't make much of a difference if you have bed bugs.
Myth #4 – Bed Bugs are Only Found in Beds
The belief that bed bugs can only be found in beds is wrong. Bed bugs want blood. They don't care where they get it from. If you have pets, bed bugs will be just as happy to take up residence in their beds, cushions, and blankets. And bed bugs can also take root in the furniture we sit on.
Myth #5 – You Can Get Rid of Bed Bugs on your Own
If you have a bed bug infestation, you’ll need help to get rid of it entirely. Professionals have experience and training plus the tools necessary to get rid of a bed bug infestation. There is no reason to be embarrassed; bed bug infestations can happen to anyone. Big Blue is happy to help!
If you have signs of bed bugs in your home or have small bite marks on your arms or legs, give us a call immediately so we can eliminate the infestation before it grows out of control.