When it comes to pest control issues, many homeowners worry about having bed bugs in their homes. These nocturnal critters leave itchy and painful bites and are often difficult to remove from properties. Below, learn more about how these insects infiltrate properties and how a professional bed bug control team can help you get rid of them. 

What Are Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are extremely small insects with flat bodies of about 1/4-inch in diameter. They are brown in color but may become reddish and swollen after they feed. The females can lay dozens of eggs over a short period of time, and since these critters only take about a month to reach maturity, they multiply rapidly.  

How Do They Get Into Homes?

Bed bugs are often referred to as “hitchhikers,” as they often enter homes by attaching themselves to bags and luggage. If you stay in a hotel or rental property, they may crawl inside your suitcases and settle into your home while you unpack upon your return. They can hide in small cracks and crevices within mattresses or around headboards since their narrow bodies allow them to fit easily into these spaces. 

What Are the Symptoms of Their Bites?

Bed bugs leave red, itchy, swollen bites in rows or zig-zag patterns on the arms, legs, stomach, or back. You might also notice rust-colored spots on your mattress or bedding as a result of droppings. Musty odors and husks from shedding their skin are other telltale signs of an infestation. 

How Can You Remove & Prevent Them?

Hire a pest control company to apply chemicals and pesticides, such as pyrethroids, in a series of targeted treatments to effectively kill these insects. Prevent infestations by washing linens and comforters in scalding hot water after traveling or hosting guests. If you have an infestation in your home, it is recommended to stay in a hotel or at a family member’s house during the bed bug control process. 

As soon as you suspect a bed bug infestation, get in touch with Ray’s Property Maintenance and Pest Control. This pest control company offers treatment to remove insects, rodents, and wildlife from homes and businesses throughout Rochester, NY. Call (585) 301-5811 to schedule an appointment for bed bug control or speak with a representative about their humane wildlife removal methods.