There are a lot of myths about pests. You might have heard that mouse traps should be baited with cheese or that cockroaches can survive for months with their heads cut off. These urban legends aren’t true. Unfortunately, when it comes to bed bugs, several myths could put you in danger of an infestation. So, if you think you know everything about bed bugs in Nassau County, it might be time to think again.
Myth: Bed Bugs Are Too Small To See
Bed bugs are very tiny pests, but they aren’t invisible. Most only measure between 3/16 and 1/4 inch in length. They are reddish-brown in coloration and have a flat, oval-like body that can appear more rounded after feeding. But the thing about bed bugs is that you probably won’t actually catch one crawling around you looking for a bite to eat. Bed bugs spend most of their time hiding and prefer to venture out in the dark.
So, just because you see signs of bed bug activity but no actual bed bugs, it doesn’t mean the pests are too small to see. They’re just elusive.
Myth: Only Dirty Homes Get Bed Bugs
Bed bugs don’t just magically appear when a home becomes filthy enough. Even the cleanest homes can get bed bugs. Bed bugs are expert hitchhikers that are often brought home, clinging to luggage, clothing, backpacks, or bags. They might crawl from the source of a nearby infestation if you live in a dormitory or apartment building, but even if you keep a spotless home, you can still get bed bugs.
Myth: Bed Bugs Spread Disease
Parasites like fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are infamous for spreading a host of diseases to human beings as they feed on blood. But while bed bugs may be blood-sucking parasites, they aren’t known to spread any diseases. The only thing bed bugs spread are annoying, itchy welts.
Myth: Bed Bugs Only Live In Bedrooms
While you’re likely to find bed bugs hanging around the bed, they can easily infest an entire living space, congregating in furniture, curtains, and even appliances. There are a few signs of bed bug infestation to look out for:
- Bite marks. Bed bug bites result in itchy red welts, often clustered together appearing in a line or zig-zag pattern on areas of skin exposed while you sleep.
- Eggs and molted skin. Bed bugs will leave dead skin in areas where they breed and feed. Tiny bunches of eggs that resemble uncooked rice are also a sign.
- Funny smell. A bed bug infestation produces a musty, unpleasant smell compared to coriander.
- Stains and blotches. Bed bugs will stain bed sheets and other materials with their droppings as they feed. Crushed bed bugs will create rusty brown stains in the fabric.
Even businesses and offices where there are no beds can have bed bugs. Employees can unknowingly transport bed bugs into the office, where they can find plenty of dark hiding places to camp out. Since most employees leave at night when bed bugs are most active, the pests might not be spotted.
Myth: You Can Get Rid Of Bed Bugs By Yourself
Getting rid of bed bugs by yourself is a waste of time and money. If you miss even a few bed bugs, the infestation will persist. That’s why if you have a bed bug problem in Nassau County, it’s easier, safer, and better for your wallet to use professional bed bug control from Parkway Pest Services.
Since 1932, we’ve been protecting our customers from bed bugs. We will work with you to create the best treatment plan for your situation and ensure that your problem is eliminated while protecting the health and safety of you and your family. Contact us today for your free quote!