Bed bugs are becoming an increasingly common issue across the United States, and Boise is no exception. While there isn’t a definitive answer as to how big of a problem bed bugs are in Boise, it’s essential to be aware of the risk and what you can do if you think you may have been bitten by one of these pests. This blog post will provide some information on bed bugs, including what they look like, where they live, and how to get rid of them.
We’ll also discuss some steps that you can take to help reduce your risk of acquiring bed bugs in the first place.
What Are Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are small, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of sleeping humans. They are reddish-brown in color, oval in shape, and approximately the size of a poppy seed. Bed bugs are most active at night when they emerge from their hiding places to feed on their host’s blood. Although they are not known to transmit diseases, their bites can be extremely itchy and often result in swelling and redness.
Bed bugs can live for several months without feeding and are good at hiding in tiny crevices and cracks. This makes them difficult to spot and can quickly spread from one location to another.
Where do Bed Bugs Live?
Bed bugs are experts at hiding and can be found in a variety of places in both homes and businesses. Here are some of the most common areas where bed bugs are known to hide:
• Furniture: Bed bugs often hide in mattresses, box springs, and other pieces of furniture. They will burrow into the fabric and build their nests, where they will have easy access to their food source.
• Clothing: Bed bugs can also hide in clothing, particularly items stored in closets or drawers. They often hide in the seams of garments, where they can go undetected for long periods.
• Carpets and Rugs: Bed bugs can also infest carpets and rugs, particularly if they are located in areas where people sleep or rest. They will often hide in the carpet fibers, making them difficult to spot.
• Cracks and Crevices: Bed bugs can also take refuge in cracks and crevices around a room. This includes the cracks in walls, floors, and furniture. They will often build their nests in these areas, where they will be protected from light and predators.
How do You Get Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are one of the most frustrating pests to deal with. They are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. Bed bugs are often active at night, making them difficult to spot.
Unfortunately, they can also reproduce quickly, so an infestation can quickly get out of hand. Bed bugs often hitch a ride into homes on clothing or luggage. They can also be brought in on used furniture or bedding.
Once inside, they will hide in cracks and crevices near beds and bedrooms. Then, they will come out at night to feed on their human hosts. While bed bugs are not known to transmit disease, their bites can be highly uncomfortable. If you think you may have bed bugs, it is essential to contact a pest control professional right away.
How do You Know if You Have Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are often difficult to spot, as they are small and good at hiding. However, there are some signs that you may have bed bugs:
• Bites: One of the most common signs of bed bugs is bites. Bed bugs bite people while sleeping, leaving small, red welts on the skin. These bites are often itchy and can result in swelling and redness.
• Bloodstains: Another sign of bed bugs is bloodstains on sheets or clothing. Bed bugs will often leave behind small, red stains after feeding.
• Exoskeletons: Another sign of bed bugs is the presence of their exoskeletons. Bed bugs will shed their skin as they grow; these shed skins can be found in areas where bed bugs are present.
• Smells: Bed bugs can also cause a musty smell in areas where they are present. The scent glands cause this that bed bugs use to mark their territory.
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to contact a pest control professional right away. An infestation of bed bugs can quickly get out of hand, and professional help may be necessary to eliminate them.
How do You Prevent Bed Bugs?
There are a few things you can do to prevent bed bugs:
1. Inspect your furniture before bringing it into your home: Bed bugs can often hitch a ride into your home on used furniture or bedding. Inspect these items carefully before bringing them inside, and look for any signs of bed bugs.
2. Vacuum regularly: Vacuuming can help to remove bed bugs and their eggs from your home. Be sure to vacuum all areas of your home, including under furniture and in cracks and crevices.
3. Wash your bedding regularly: Washing your bedding in hot water can help to kill bed bugs and their eggs. Be sure to wash all of your bedding, including pillowcases and blankets.
4. Seal cracks and crevices: Bed bugs can squeeze into tiny spaces, so it’s important to seal any cracks or crevices in your walls, floors, or furniture. This will help prevent them from getting into your home.
Taking these precautions can help prevent bed bugs from taking up residence in your home. However, if you do find bed bugs in your home, it is important to contact a pest control professional right away. An infestation of bed bugs can quickly get out of hand, and professional help may be necessary to eliminate them.