What do bed bugs look like?
Adult bed bugs are reddish-brown in color, wingless, and oval-shaped. They are similar in size to an apple seed. Prior to a blood meal, their bodies will be flat. After feeding, bed bugs become redder in color and their bodies become more swollen.
Bed bug nymphs look like miniature bed bugs except they are pale white or yellow in color before feeding. After eating they will also become redder and plump up.
Bed bug eggs are about the size of a pinhead and are pearl-white in color.
When are bed bugs most active?
Why do bed bugs bite?
Bed bug are parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. In order to feed on blood, they pierce the skin and take blood through their long, straw-like beaks. After feeding for a few minutes, they crawl away, leaving behind a bite mark.
Are bed bugs dangerous?
Although bed bugs do not transmit disease, bed bug bites can cause itching, discomfort, and in some cases, may cause allergic reactions or skin infections in some people. The stress of dealing with a bed bug problem can also be significant.
How do bed bugs spread?
Bed bugs can spread through infested luggage, clothing, and furniture. In fact, they are often referred to as excellent hitchhikers. What’s more, bed bugs can crawl from on room to another or one unit to another in the case of hotel rooms, door rooms, and multi-housing complexes.
How do I know if I have bed bugs?
Signs of a bed bug infestation may include itchy, red welts on your arms, legs, and other exposed skin, small bloodstains on bedding, and bugs on your mattress (especially around seams), and other furniture.
Where do bed bugs hide?
Bed bugs are often found in mattresses, box springs, bed frames, and nightstands. They’re also commonly found in other furniture cracks and crevices, in upholstered furniture, behind baseboards as well as around electrical outlets, wall hangings, curtains, and in or on luggage.
Can I get rid of bed bugs on my own?
DIY bed bug control can be challenging and may not eliminate the infestation. In fact, it often exacerbates the problem and even causes the infestation to spread to other parts of a home or building.
How do I get rid of bed bugs?
To completely get rid of bed bugs, professional bed bug control is highly recommended. At Harris Pest Control, we offer guaranteed bed bug heat treatments, which typically only takes a single day to complete, eliminating all stages of bed bug development. If you have a bed bug problem in the Florence or Myrtle Beach metros, contact Harris Pest Control today to request a free bed bug inspection for your home or business!
Can I prevent a bed bug infestation?
You can reduce the risk of bed bug infestation by inspecting second-hand furniture before bringing it into your home and being cautious when traveling or welcoming travelers into your home.
