The Draculas of the insect world, bed bugs only feed on blood and make their move in the dead of night. Unlike many other pests, bed bugs are not a result of poor sanitation or housekeeping. Instead, they are often brought into homes on personal belongings, especially on luggage after travel. These pests reproduce at an alarming rate, so it doesn’t take long for a couple bed bugs to turn into a couple hundred.
Bed bugs are small, flat insects that are about the size and shape of an apple seed. They can range in colour from light tan to dark, reddish brown. In addition to spotting a live bed bug, signs of an infestation include shed cast skins and black or brown stains left behind by the insects. Bed bug bites can also cause skin irritation on sensitive individuals, but it is difficult to tell these bites apart from those left by other insects.
So, what can you do to keep your home protected from these nighttime menaces? First, try to keep them from reaching your home in the first place. When travelling, inspect for bed bugs in your hotel and remember to S.L.E.E.P.:
- Survey the hotel room for signs of an infestation. Look for black or brown spots on any furniture.
- Lift and look in bed bug hiding spots: the mattress, box spring, bed skirt and other furniture, as well as behind baseboards, pictures and even torn wallpaper.
- Elevate luggage away from the bed and wall. The safest place is in the bathtub.
- Examine your luggage while repacking and once you return home from a trip.
- Place all dryer-safe clothing from your luggage in the dryer for at least 20 minutes at the highest setting after you return home.
At home, regularly inspect for bed bugs the same way and inspect all furniture before bringing it inside. If you find bed bugs or think you might have an infestation, call your Orkin Man right away and dry infested linens, curtains and stuffed animals on the highest heat setting they will allow.
For more information, check out this quick reference sheet:
You may also like
Canada's Top 25 Bed Bug Cities Of 2022
Bed bugs are extremely efficient hitch hikers. They can move easily across a room and climb onto luggage or anything left on a bed in just one night. Learn which cities have made Canada’s top 25 bed buggiest cities.
Bugs & Kisses: Tips To Keep Pests Out Of Your Valentine's Day
Valentine’s Day is a holiday that’s all about spreading love and kindness. Unfortunately, the sweetness of this tradition also makes it an opportunity to attract and harbour pests, which can lead to serious pest infestations. If love is in the air at your property this year, it is important to take precautions against the various pests that intend to intrude on your plans. Whether you’re celebrating love day with family, friends, or a significant other, the gathering and gift giving traditions that go hand-in-hand with Valentine’s Day increase the probability of pests reaching you or your home. To help you avoid insects spoiling your romance, we’ve provided you with some tips on how to have a pest-free Valentine’s Day.
Who Invited That Pest? Tips To Avoid Pest Infestation At Your Next Party
Everyone loves a good party, but so do pests. For those looking to host a successful party, it is important to be aware of the possibility of having some uninvited guests…we mean pests. Whether you're hosting a Super Bowl party, throwing a birthday bash, or enjoying a night in with friends, remember that pests are popular party favours that may be left behind. While there’s not much you can do to prevent these pests from entering your home via your guests, you can take precautions to nip the problem at the source and avoid an infestation. To make it easier for you, we’ve put together a few tips to make sure your party stays pest-free.
Top 7 Pests Predicted To Trend In 2022
From mosquitoes and wildlife to ticks and flies, being prepared for spring and summer pests can have an impact on how enjoyable your time outdoors will be. Do not worry you are not alone, as the experienced team at Orkin Canada is there to help you prepare. After doing thorough research, we have put together a comprehensive list on the top 7 pests expected to trend in the summer of 2022. This list will provide an in-depth look at the impact that pests will have on your home or business, along with also providing easy to use preventative tips.
Remove pests from your home, and stop them from coming back
We work hard to listen, understand and assess your unique situation. Request a free, no-obligation estimate today for a customized pest program that fits your needs.
Request a Free Home EstimateRequest a Free Business Consultation