How to get rid of Rodents
Where are they found?: Rodents such as rats and mice are commonly found in basements, attics, kitchens, and garages. They are excellent climbers and can fit through even the smallest of openings. Rodents tend to...
How to get rid of Bed Bugs
- Where are they found? Bed bugs are notorious for infesting bedrooms, particularly in mattresses, box springs, bed frames, and headboards. They also hide in cracks in walls, behind baseboards, inside furniture, and even in electrical outlets. They are expert hitchhikers and can be transported via luggage, clothing, and furniture. Though bed bugs don’t fly, they move quickly and can spread throughout an entire home or building.
- Seasonal Activity: Bed bugs are active year-round, as they prefer warm indoor environments, especially in places where people sleep. There is no specific "season" for bed bugs, making them a constant threat. However, infestations may be more commonly reported after periods of travel (summer vacation or holiday seasons) when they are spread through luggage or second-hand items.
- How to combat them:
- Sprays: Bed bug-specific insecticide sprays are essential for treating mattresses, bed frames, and furniture. Ready Steady Defends Bed Bug Killer Spray should be applied to seams, folds, and joints in furniture where bed bugs may hide. Repeat treatments are often necessary as bed bugs can be difficult to eliminate with a single application.
- Powders: Diatomaceous earth is a natural and effective powder that can be applied to cracks, crevices, and baseboards. The powder works by dehydrating bed bugs when they meet it. This is a non-toxic, long-lasting option for persistent infestations.
- Traps: Bed bug interceptors can be placed under bed legs to trap bed bugs trying to climb onto the bed. These traps are excellent for monitoring infestations and preventing bed bugs from accessing sleeping areas.
- Smoke Bombs: Bed bug smoke bombs (foggers) can be used in severe infestations to kill bed bugs hiding in unreachable areas like wall voids or deep within furniture. However, these should be used carefully and in combination with other methods, as bed bugs can survive fogging alone if they are well-hidden.
- Prevention: Preventing bed bugs requires vigilance, especially after travel or when bringing in second-hand furniture. When staying in hotels or other accommodations, inspect beds and furniture for signs of bed bugs, such as dark spots on the mattress. After returning from travel, inspect and wash all clothing in hot water and vacuum luggage thoroughly. To prevent infestations, encase mattresses and box springs in bed bug-proof covers, reduce clutter where bed bugs could hide, and regularly inspect your sleeping areas. Avoid buying used mattresses or furniture, and always check items thoroughly before bringing them into your home.