Bed bugs can be a major concern for homeowners and renters. These tiny pests not only cause discomfort with their bites but can also spread rapidly, making them challenging to control. Proper preparation before the treatment can dramatically increase the effectiveness of bed bug extermination. Here’s a comprehensive guide to preparing your home for a bed bug treatment.
Importance of Bed Bug Treatment Preparation
Before embarking on the bed bug treatment journey, it’s essential to know why preparation is critical. Proper preparation ensures:
- Easier access for pest control professionals to all potential hiding spots.
- Reduction in the chances of the bed bugs spreading during treatment.
- Efficient eradication during the treatment process.
Packing and Furniture Placement Pre Bed Bugs Treatment
- Space Creation: All furniture should be moved at least 60 centimetres away from walls and skirting boards. This ensures that all hiding places are accessible during treatment.
- Emptiness: Desks, bookcases, and other furniture that could potentially hide bed bugs should be emptied. The items should be securely bagged to prevent any bugs from escaping.
- Mattresses and Bedding: Lift mattresses and box springs from the frame and prop them against a wall. This provides a clear view and access to any bugs hiding underneath.
Essential Laundering Steps
- Heat Treatment: Anything that can be laundered, such as bed skirts, stuffed animals, curtains, etc., should be washed and then dried at temperatures above 60°C, which effectively kills all stages of bed bug development.
- Seal and Store: After laundering, place the items in clean plastic bags or containers, sealing them off to prevent re-infestation.
Vacuuming Guidelines
- Thorough Cleaning: Vacuum all floors, carpets, rugs, and especially the crevices around baseboards, bed frames, and sofas.
- Disposal: It’s paramount to dispose of vacuum bags or the canister contents immediately to ensure bugs don’t escape.
Discarding Infested Furniture
While many recommend treating infested furniture, some choose to dispose of them. If you opt for disposal, remember to:
- Deface Furniture: Ensure the items aren’t reused by damaging them. For example, mattresses should be slashed to make them unusable.
- Wrap Before Moving: Before discarding any item, wrap it in plastic to prevent the spread of the bugs.
Post-Treatment Recommendations
After the treatment is done, it’s essential to stay out of the treated space for at least two hours to allow the treatment materials to dry completely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are bed bugs?
A: Bed bugs are small, oval, reddish-brown insects that feed on human blood.
Q: What do bed bugs look like?
A: Adults resemble apple seeds, being about 5mm long, while nymphs are smaller and might appear clear or tan.
Q: Can I see bed bugs?
A: Yes, they are visible but are more active at night, making daytime sightings rarer.
Q: Where do bed bugs hide?
A: They hide in small cracks on mattresses, behind headboards, and inside furniture, often clustering together.
Q: How did I get them?
A: Bed bugs can hitch a ride on luggage, clothing, used furniture, and other items.
Q: What do bed bug bites look like?
A: They resemble other insect bites and may or may not cause raised, itchy red bumps or skin irritations.
Q: Why am I being bitten and not my partner?
A: Not everyone reacts to bed bug bites the same way. While some might have visible reactions, others might not show any signs.
Q: Should I attempt to treat bed bugs myself?
A: No, bed bugs are challenging to treat, and it’s best left to professionals.
Q: How does Bugwise Pest Control treat bed bugs?
A: Bugwise Pest Control employs a mix of traditional and eco-friendly techniques tailored to individual infestations.
Q: Should I discard my infested furniture?
A: Typically, it’s not necessary as professional treatments can effectively treat infested items.
How Do We Handle Them at Bugwise?
Depending on the specific situation, we blend traditional methods with environmentally-friendly solutions to tackle these pests.
How Many Sessions to Ensure They’re Gone?
To ensure comprehensive eradication, we typically advise a minimum of two treatment sessions.
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