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How to Prevent Bed Bugs in Memphis TN Metro Area
Bed bugs can pop up in your Memphis TN Metro Area property at any point, so knowing prevention methods can assist you in taking precautions when traveling or bringing certain items into your home.
Can Bed Bugs Be Prevented?
Yes, there are many steps you can take to prevent bed bugs, however, even the cleanest properties can be subject to the infestation of sneaky bed bugs. The issue with infestations is that they can seem to be random, however, it is widely accepted that bed bugs usually invade through used, infested furniture or after traveling. With this in mind, there are several ways you can protect yourself from bed bugs!
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How Do Bed Bugs Spread?
Bed bugs spread through infested mattresses, box springs, furniture, suitcases, clothes, and more. But they can also spread throughout your property. Bed bugs can travel from one room to another, or even from one unit to another, through common walls, ceilings, pipes, telephone cables, doorways, and more. One of the main reasons why a bed bug infestation can spread throughout a property is when people move infested furniture or bedding. This is a sure way to introduce bugs into other rooms in your property!
How Quickly Do Bed Bugs Reproduce & Spread?
Bed bugs do not reproduce as quickly as other insects, with an average of about 12 eggs a day. Once the eggs are laid, it takes about ten days for them to hatch. After hatching the larvae stage proceeds for six weeks before finally turning into adults. When the activity of bed bugs goes unnoticed, an initial bed bug problem can rapidly escalate into an overwhelming infestation.
Easy Tips to Prevent Bed Bugs in Your Home
The good news is there are steps you can take to stay safe from bed bugs:
- Know how to identify signs of bed bugs, including blood spots, fecal spots, and bed bug bites.
- Pay attention to used furniture being brought into your home. Inspect second-hand items before they are brought inside.
- Electrical outlets are common hiding spots for bed bugs. Cover them with a plug to prevent them from climbing in.
- Cover your mattress with a bed bug-proof cover to prevent bed bugs from infesting. Covers that are resistant to holes and tears can deter the bugs from entering your mattress and/or boxspring.
- When traveling, take precautions. This includes packing clothes in a vacuum-sealed bag, researching your hotel, and keeping your suitcase above the ground.
What Attracts Bed Bugs in Memphis TN Metro Area?
Any property is subject to a bed bug infestation. Once they have found their way in, the main factor that convinces them to stay permanently is warmth and blood. They are not attracted to grime, dirt, or human food, but want a host to feed on.
Can You Get Rid of Bed Bugs in Used Furniture?
If you have picked up second-hand furniture that has bed bugs in it, the first step is to inform the seller or store owner. Some stores may offer refunds, and it will also help prevent the spread of bed bugs from that store location. If you plan to salvage the piece of furniture, you should connect with a professional to assist in tackling the bugs. Always leave furniture that is infested outside so they do not invade your property.
How to Check Used Furniture for Bed Bugs
Buying used furniture is common practice. There are several ways you can ensure that it does not have a bed bug infestation:
- A top indicator of bed bugs is finding small black spots or even blood dots.
- Look on the underside and in cracks of bed frames, shelves, tables, and other furnishings.
- Bed bugs can be found almost anywhere, so look in furniture seams, creases, crevices, voids, joints, and more.
- If anything appears suspicious, it is likely not worth the risk of transporting it in your vehicle or bringing it into your home.
Likelihood of Bed Bugs in Used Furniture
Used furniture does not mean that you will get bed bugs! In fact, second-hand furniture is mostly a safe move and bed bug free. However, there is always the possibility that furniture is donated from a location that experienced a bed bug infestation. It’s always a good practice to do a detailed inspection of items before bringing them into your home.
How to Stop the Spread of Bed Bugs in Memphis TN Metro Area
Contact a bed bug control expert as quickly as possible if you have found bed bugs in your home. Getting treatment right away can prevent a catastrophic infestation down the road. Allied Pest Control will inspect your Memphis TN Metro Area property and put together an efficient and effective treatment plan!