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Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are insects that feed primarily on human blood, typically while their victims sleep. In recent decades, bed bugs have been more problematic, which is attributed to a combination of factors. The increase in travel has led to the spread of bed bugs, as the likelihood of exposure is heightened among those staying in hotels, passing through airports, or using buses, trains, and other forms of mass transit. Also, environmental safety concerns in recent years have resulted in the banning of various pesticides that emerged during the 1940s that were highly effective against bed bugs.
Are you noticing signs of bed bugs inside your home? A professional provider of bed bug control in Bethesda is best suited for expelling these insects from the property. Today, Womack Pest Control service technicians have some of the latest treatment options that are both highly effective and ensure the safety of home occupants and the local environment.
Spotting Potential Bed Bug Hotspots
What are the signs of bed bugs that Bethesda residents are likely to notice? Those struggling with bed bug infestations often spot some of the following:
- Look for tiny blood stains or darker stains of excrement on pillowcases, sheets, and other bedding materials.
- Female bed bugs generate tiny, white eggs that are often seen along the seams of mattresses and bed frames.
- Homeowners may notice the shed skins (exoskeletons) of bed bugs, which are created through molting.
- Those residing in homes with an infestation often notice small, reddish marks on the skin from bed bug bites.
Keep in mind that many property owners misidentify bed bugs as carpet beetles and other types of pests; therefore, those who notice signs of these types of home-invading creatures should promptly contact a qualified professional regarding an inspection. The pros will accurately assess the situation and create an effective treatment plan.
How A Small Infestation Can Become A Big Problem Quickly
Rather small problems with bed bugs in your home can quickly escalate and soon become a full-blown infestation. Following a blood meal, female bed bugs can generate multiple eggs per day for roughly 10 days. Over their lifetime, a single female may create more than 100 eggs. The moderate indoor temperatures create an optimal environment for bed bug reproduction, and the population can double in several weeks.
Although they are wingless creatures that move by crawling using their six small legs, bed bugs often spread into other rooms within a single-family home or into adjacent units within apartment buildings or other multi-family structures.
In the earlier stages of infestation, bed bugs may remain largely unnoticed based on their feeding behavior. Bed bugs typically emerge after dark and use their sensory capabilities to crawl to sleeping humans. Experts believe that these creatures are attracted to the carbon dioxide and body heat that our bodies emit. The feeding process takes only a few minutes, and bed bugs will then retreat into hiding behind or below wall coverings, furniture, or baseboards.
Bed Bug Prevention Tips For Bethesda Homeowners
Are you trying to determine how to prevent bed bugs?
Bed bugs are commonly brought into homes inadvertently by property owners who are returning from overnight travel. Upon entering hotel rooms, always perform an inspection of the bed area for any evidence of bed bug activity. During hotel stays, avoid placing suitcases, purses, and other belongings directly on the bed, carpet, or upholstered furniture.
Can bed bugs travel on dogs? Although bed bugs prefer to feed on human blood, they can bite dogs, cats, and other pets. Unlike fleas and similar pests that often remain in the fur of animals, bed bugs generally will feed and return to hiding; therefore, it is much less likely that your pets will introduce bed bugs to your home.
Bed bugs are also potentially brought into homes with second-hand clothing, furniture, or appliances.
While these preventative measures are typically effective, bed bugs are tiny creatures that may remain undetected as an infestation develops. In a matter of weeks, the problems may become unmanageable and require treatment from a qualified provider of bed bug pest control in Bethesda.
The Benefits Of Professional Bed Bug Control Services
What is the best product to buy for fast bed bug removal? Local retailers sell a variety of sprays, foggers, traps, and other home treatment options for bed bugs. Unfortunately, the majority of these products create only short-term results and are insufficient against larger infestations.
Bethesda-area homeowners experiencing problems with bed bugs or similar types of unwanted pests can rely on Womack Pest Control for effective solutions and excellent customer service. Contact our office today regarding an inspection.