Why Are Bed Bugs In Reno So Hard To Get Rid Of?

Bed bugs are hard to figure out. It’s not really common knowledge how they invade properties, how they operate, and why they’re so challenging to get rid of. What most Reno residents understand about these insects is that they’re true to their namesake. They live in mattresses, and they bite you in your sleep. Then, you wake up with itchy, red marks all over your body. It’s very disconcerting. If you can’t be comfortable in your own home and bedroom, where can you be?

Bed bugs don’t have to remain a mystery though, and you certainly don’t have to put up with them. You can get the scoop on these critters, so you’ll know how to identify and prevent them. Also, you can learn more about the things Pestmaster^® Services can do for you when your preventable measures fail.

First Off, Where Do Bed Bugs Come From Anyway?

Many think bed bugs show up when a space is filthy, but this isn’t true. These pests are bloodsucking hitchhikers. They go wherever they can find people and animals to feed on. That said, public places, like hotels and bus stations, are literally crawling with them. Bed bugs will catch a ride with you home by sneaking into your bag, briefcase, or clothes. Afterward, they’ll live, not just in beds but, in the following:

• Couches
• Fabrics
• Upholstery
• Electronics
• Appliances
• Mattresses
• Flooring
• Wallpaper

Bed bugs can be tough to spot because they’re no larger than 1/4 of an inch. The body bumps and linen stains they leave will be more visible. These will either be blood drops or red-brown smears. Their fecal matter is black or brown and is powdery or smudge-like. You also may smell mustiness in the air. All of these things are signs of bed bug infestation.

If you believe you've seen a bed bug, here's how you'll need to know. Typical bed bugs are reddish-brown. They release pearly white eggs. Their young are translucent. Their bodies have three segments: a round head and thorax, and a strangely shaped abdomen. They have six legs and two antennas.

What Are Ways to Prevent Bed Bugs?

Early detection and prevention is key with bed bugs, so keep an eye out. You’ll have to pay what will seem like an unusual amount of attention to your belongings. Here are some of the best preventive methods:

• Vacuum or steam clean upholstery, carpets, and furniture.
• Use a bed bug-repellent mattress cover.
• Use a flashlight to regularly inspect your mattress seams, head and footboards, and box springs.
• Check second-hand items before purchasing them or bringing them inside.
• Look in and through clothing piles, drawers, electronics, and appliances.
• Examine furniture, including lamps and picture frames.
• Inspect hotel rooms thoroughly. Notify staff of any bed bugs, and relocate to a room further away if you spot signs of them.
• Put luggage in a plastic bag or protective cover when you’re traveling.
• Wash all your clothes in hot water and dry them on high for 20 minutes when you return from a trip. Also, check your luggage.

Why Are Bed Bugs Tough To Kill? Why Call Pestmaster^® Services?

There are several reasons why exterminating bed bugs independently is a challenge. For a complete elimination, you’d have to find every living bed bug and all of their eggs. They’re too small and reproduce too quickly for this to be done. Trying to cut off their food supply also won’t work because they can go months without feeding. Last, but not least, they have a resistance to most commercial insecticides.

Professional assistance is beyond necessary. At Pestmaster^® Services, we have several specialized products to address bed bugs. Examples include traps, temperature and steaming treatments. We’ve protected homes and businesses from these critters for over 40+ years, and look forward to serving you too. Call today for our bed bug control in Reno!