The phrase “Sleep tight, don’t let the bedbugs bite,” may be a popular way for parents to say goodnight to their children, but quite often, people don’t know what bedbugs actually are. While these tiny pests are not believed to transmit disease, they can make daily life in your home quite unpleasant. Here’s what you should know about these tiny insects.

What Are Bedbugs?

Bedbugs are brown, oval-shaped insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. While they can’t fly, they move quickly. They prefer dark places and crevices, where it is easy for them to hide thanks to their flat bodies.

Because of this, they often hide in mattresses and box springs because there are plenty of crevices to hide in. Bedbugs are most active at night when they will bite you while you are sleeping. They spread quickly, often latching onto clothes or suitcases to travel from a hotel to your home.

How Do You Identify & Eliminate an Infestation?

Bedbugs will bite pretty much any part of your exposed skin during the night. You will likely notice small red bites along your arms and legs. Though not painful, these bites will usually become quite itchy after a few days. In addition, reddish-brown spots will often appear on your sheets or upholstery — the result of their fecal droppings.

Bedbugs can be very difficult to eliminate. Infested bedding and clothing should be washed in hot water. The surrounding area should be vacuumed thoroughly. However, because bedbugs are so small and can hide in tiny crevices, professional pest removal services are often needed to fully eliminate them.

Whether you’re dealing with bedbugs, termites, or another pest infestation, you can count on Bruce Terminix Service. Serving St. Charles County, MO, for over 45 years, the expert exterminators at this family-owned and -operated company will make you their top priority to help you reclaim your home. To learn more about their services, visit them online or call (636) 947-1452.