Bed Bugs : Prevention Strategies

Dealing with bed bugs can be a distressing experience. These tiny pests are excellent at hiding and can cause itchy, uncomfortable bites. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to control bed bugs at home. Here’s what you need to know.

Bed bugs typically feed on their hosts for about 10-15 minutes per feeding event. They are known to feed every 3-4 days

Purdue University, Medical Entomology

Prevention of Bed Bugs

Preventing bed bugs from entering your home is key. Here are some preventive measures:

• Be Cautious with Second-Hand Items: Inspect second-hand furniture, mattresses, and other items for signs of bed bugs before bringing them into your home.
• Travel Smart: Bed bugs can hitchhike via luggage and clothing when you travel. Use protective covers for your luggage and inspect hotel rooms upon arrival.
• High Temperature Kills Bed Bugs: Washing your clothes and bedding at a high temperature (at least 120°F or 49°C) and then using a dryer on a hot setting can effectively kill bed bugs.

Understanding Bed Bugs

• Attraction to Carbon Dioxide: Bed bugs are attracted to carbon dioxide, which humans exhale. This means crowded living spaces like hostels or condominiums with many residents are more susceptible to bed bug infestations.
• Seal Cracks and Crevices: Bed bugs can enter your home through tiny openings. Sealing cracks in walls, floors, and around bed frames can help prevent their entry.

Additional Control Methods

• Vacuum Regularly: Vacuuming your home frequently can remove bed bugs (or its eggs) from floors, walls, and crevices. Be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag immediately after.
• Consider Professional Pest Control: For severe infestations, professional pest control services may be necessary to fully eradicate bed bugs from your home. Call Malaysian Pest Control to help you.

It is cheaper and easier to treat bed bugs at early stage

Malaysian Pest Control

Debunking Myths

• Cleanliness Does Not Deter Bed Bugs: Bed bugs are not attracted to dirt or decay. They are equally likely to inhabit clean environments as they are cluttered ones.
• Bed Bugs Can Survive Without Feeding: Bed bugs can live for several months without a meal, so vacating your home for a few weeks won’t starve them out.

Understanding how to prevent and control bed bugs is crucial in managing an infestation. Remember, early detection and action can make a significant difference in controlling these pests. If you find yourself overwhelmed, consider reaching out to a professional pest control service for assistance.