5 Common Myths About Bed Bugs and the Truth Behind Them
Bed bugs are one of the most misunderstood pests, and this misinformation can make dealing with an infestation even more frustrating. Myths about bed bugs often lead to ineffective DIY treatments or unnecessary panic. At BedBugsNJ, we’re committed to helping homeowners better understand these pests so they can take the right steps toward effective bed bug removal. Here are five common myths about bed bugs—and the truth behind them.
Myth 1: Bed Bugs Only Live in Dirty Homes
Truth: One of the biggest misconceptions about bed bugs is that they only infest dirty or unkempt homes. In reality, bed bugs are not attracted to filth or clutter but to warmth and the presence of humans. They can infest any home, regardless of cleanliness, as long as there is a source of blood for them to feed on.
Bed bugs are often introduced into homes through secondhand furniture, luggage, or even guests. Once inside, they spread quickly and can hide in mattresses, furniture, and cracks in walls. Keeping your home clean can help you detect bed bugs early, but it won’t necessarily prevent an infestation.
Myth 2: Bed Bugs Are Too Small to See
Truth: While bed bugs are small, they are not invisible to the naked eye. Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed, measuring around 4-5mm in length. They are reddish-brown in color and have flat, oval-shaped bodies. Bed bug eggs, on the other hand, are much smaller and harder to see, as they are about the size of a pinhead and white in color.
If you suspect a bed bug infestation, knowing what to look for is key. Besides spotting the bugs themselves, you may also notice bed bug bites, small dark spots (fecal matter) on your sheets, or shed skins from the bugs as they grow.
Myth 3: Bed Bugs Only Bite at Night
Truth: While bed bugs are generally more active at night when their hosts are asleep, they will bite during the day if given the opportunity. Bed bugs feed on blood, and they don’t rely on night-time to survive. However, they tend to be nocturnal because it allows them to feed on humans when they are most still.
If you find bites on your skin or signs of bed bugs in your home, don’t assume you are safe during the day. Bed bugs can adjust their behavior to your sleeping patterns, making them adaptable and harder to detect.
Myth 4: You Can Get Rid of Bed Bugs with DIY Treatments
Truth: While DIY bed bug treatments can reduce the number of bed bugs temporarily, they are rarely effective in completely eliminating an infestation. Many over-the-counter sprays, foggers, and bed bug traps only target visible bugs, leaving eggs and hidden bed bugs behind to continue the infestation. Additionally, using the wrong chemicals or techniques can cause bed bugs to spread to other areas of your home, making the problem worse.
Professional bed bug exterminators, like those at BedBugsNJ, use specialized treatments and targeted chemical solutions to ensure complete removal of bed bugs at all stages of their life cycle. It’s essential to get professional help for lasting results.
Myth 5: Bed Bugs Transmit Diseases
Truth: Unlike mosquitoes, bed bugs do not transmit diseases to humans. While their bites can cause itching and allergic reactions, they are not known to spread any infectious diseases. The real issue with bed bugs lies in the discomfort they cause and the psychological stress that comes from knowing these pests are present in your home.
Bed bug bites can become infected if scratched excessively, so it’s important to treat the bites and consult a medical professional if symptoms worsen. The best way to protect yourself from bed bugs is to seek professional bed bug removal to eliminate the infestation as quickly as possible.
How to Effectively Treat a Bed Bug Infestation
Understanding the truth behind these myths is the first step in addressing a bed bug infestation. At BedBugsNJ, we offer comprehensive bed bug extermination services that are tailored to your home’s needs. Our professional team uses EPA-approved treatments that are safe for your family and effective in eliminating bed bugs from all areas of your home.
Here’s what you can expect when working with us:
1. Thorough Inspection: We begin with a detailed inspection of your home to identify all areas where bed bugs may be hiding, including mattresses, bed frames, furniture, and crevices.
2. Customized Treatment Plan: Once we’ve assessed the infestation, we create a personalized treatment plan that focuses on eliminating the bed bugs while preventing future infestations.
3. Safe and Effective Removal: Using targeted treatments, we work to eradicate bed bugs at all stages of their life cycle, ensuring complete removal from your home.
4. Ongoing Prevention: After the initial treatment, we provide guidance on how to prevent future infestations, including tips on avoiding bed bugs when traveling or purchasing secondhand furniture.
Why Choose BedBugsNJ?
BedBugsNJ is dedicated to providing fast, effective, and reliable bed bug extermination services across New Jersey. Our expert team has years of experience handling bed bug infestations of all sizes, ensuring that your home is free of these pests once and for all. We use safe, family-friendly treatments and take a detailed approach to remove bed bugs from even the hardest-to-reach areas.
If you’re dealing with bed bugs, don’t rely on myths or ineffective DIY methods. Contact us at BedBugsNJ today for a free consultation and take the first step toward a bed bug-free home.