It can be difficult to determine whether or not a room has bed bugs, as they are most active at night. However, the first step toward getting rid of bed bugs in Tacoma is, of course, to determine whether or not they are present. That’s why this article sets out the basics of performing a DIY bed bug check so homeowners can determine whether or not it’s time to call a pest control specialist.
Look for Physical Evidence
Bed bugs usually go into hiding during the day, coming out only at night to feast on their prey, so it’s easier to find secondary signs of infestation than it is to find the bed bugs themselves. Check for blood and fecal stains on mattresses and bedding, and look for clear bedbug exoskeletons, which they shed as they grow larger.
Look for Symptoms of Bed Bug Bites
In addition to blood and fecal stains, bed bugs in Tacoma often leave behind itchy, uncomfortable bites. These can be differentiated from mosquito and other bug bites in several ways. They are typically found in straight lines of multiple bites or in a localized area of the body and cause burning, itching, and raised welts.
Look for Bed Bugs at Night
Bed bugs feed as often as once a day, so there are plenty of opportunities to catch them in the act. Wait until night, when they are most active, to look for them, then simply take the sheets off the bed, look at the edges of them, and check the crevices of mattresses and box springs for signs of the pests. Bed bugs are flat and almond-shaped and come in various sizes depending on what life stage they are in.
When to Take Action
Getting rid of bed bugs is extremely difficult, as they can live for as long as 180 days without feeding. The best way to deal with a full-blown infestation is to catch it early and call a pest control specialist immediately to discuQss options. It’s also strongly recommended that anyone suffering from a severe reaction to their bites, characterized by blisters, oozing, and pus, schedule a visit with their dermatologist.
