Bed bugs are one of the most common pests in the United States, but they can also be one of the most misunderstood. Unfortunately, many myths and misconceptions about bed bugs have been spread over the years, making it harder to identify infestations early on and determine how best to handle them.
In this article, we’ll look at the most common myths about bed bugs and debunk them so that you can identify an infestation early on and know the best ways to deal with them, and know when to ask for professional pest control help.
Table of Contents
Myth 1: You Can Find Bed Bugs only in Dirty Places or Homes
False! Bed bugs do not discriminate and can infest any home or building. They are attracted to warmth, blood, and carbon dioxide, so they can be found in the cleanest places.
Myth 2: Bed Bugs Are Too Small To See
False! Depending on their age, bed bugs can range from 1mm to 8mm. While they are small, you can spot bed bugs with the naked eye if you know what to look for and where to look.
Myth 3: Bed Bugs Only Bite at Night
False! Bed bugs have been around for centuries, feeding on the blood of humans. But there’s a longstanding myth that bed bugs bite only at night, which is not necessarily true. Bed bugs are opportunistic feeders and bite whenever possible – day or night. They can sense temperature changes, so they will pounce quickly when they come into contact with human skin during bedtime activities like sleeping and lounging. Bedbugs are particularly active before sunrise or after sunset when people are more likely to sleep soundly, but their behavior is not restricted solely to the hours of darkness.
Myth 4: Bed Bugs Are Not a Health Risk
Bed bugs are a common cause of worry amongst many homeowners, but the reality of bed bug infestations is often misunderstood and exaggerated. Contrary to popular myth, bed bugs do not pose a serious health risk. Bed bugs, either live or dead bed bugs cannot transmit diseases, and their bite is similar to the bite of some mosquito species – usually causing slight swelling and itching that can be soothed with topical ointment. Furthermore, bed bug infestations should not be considered a sign of lack of cleanliness or poor hygiene; bed bug bites can occur just as frequently in high-end hotel rooms as in budget accommodations. So instead of worrying about bed bugs carrying contagious diseases, focus on getting rid of them completely. If you need expert help, consider getting advice from certified bed bug removal professionals.
Myth 5: Pesticides Will Get Rid of Bed Bugs
False! While pesticides can effectively kill bed bugs, they are often not enough to eliminate an infestation. Combining chemical and non-chemical treatments, such as steam or heat treatment, is necessary to eradicate the problem.
Myth 6: Bed Bugs Can Fly
False! Despite their wings, bed bugs cannot fly. Their legs do not enable them to jump, either. However, these pesky critters can crawl at a rate of about one meter per minute, so it is important to know how quickly they can travel.
Myth 7: You Can Bed Bug Infestations
False! Once bed bugs have made it into your home, it is important to take action as soon as possible. The longer you wait to address an infestation, the harder it will be to get rid of them, and the more likely they will spread further throughout your home.
Myth 8: Bed Bug Travel on People
Unlike lice, bed bugs don’t live and travel on people. While they can hitch a ride on someone’s clothing, they prefer to hide in cracks and crevices in furniture or mattresses, coming out only at night to feed.
Conclusion
Bed bugs can be a nuisance, but the more you know about them and the myths surrounding them, the better you will be at identifying infestations early on and effectively dealing with them. Remember: Just because something is common doesn’t mean it’s true! If you think you may have bed bugs, contact a professional bed bug removal company right away. They can inspect your situation and determine the best course of action.
