Bed bugs are frustratingly persistent pests. They can quickly transform a home from a welcome refuge to a source of stress and anxiety. When an infestation is discovered people are naturally have a lot of questions to which they need answers.
Understanding treatment options, and what to expect during the treatment process, can make all the difference in effectively eliminating these pests and preventing their return. Below you’ll a list of seven of the most frequently asked questions concerning bed bug treatments, along with some straightforward answers to help you better navigate the process.
1 – What are the Most Effective Bed Bug Treatments?
We’ll start with the biggest question people typically have following the discovery of a bed bug infestation. What are the treatment options and how do they compare?
The two most common and effective treatment methods available are heat and pesticides. Heat treatments involve raising the ambient temperature in the affected areas to levels that are lethal to bed bugs. 120ºF or higher will kill bed bugs at all stages of their life cycle, from eggs to adults, generally in a single session.
Pesticide treatments use specially formulated insecticides applied by professional pest control teams. Pesticide treatments can require more than a single visit to ensure that the infestation is fully eradicated.
2 – Can I Get Rid of Bed Bugs Myself?
Do-it-yourself methods for bed bug control may kill some bugs but rarely eliminate the entire infestation. Store bought sprays, steamers, and home remedies may yield short-term results, but more often than not lead to prolonged infestations and a waste of your hard earned money.
Hiring a licensed professional is the best way to ensure thorough and long lasting results.
3 – How Long Do Treatments Take?
The time it takes to treat your home depends on the method and severity of the infestation. Heat treatments are often completed in a single day, with rooms or the entire home being treated simultaneously.
Chemical treatments may require 2 or 3 visits, spaced over several weeks, to ensure that all bed bugs and newly hatched eggs are totally eliminated.
Heat and chemical treatments both typically require follow-up inspections to verify that the infestation is fully eradicated.
4 – Are Bed Bug Treatments Safe for Family and Pets?
When performed by licensed professionals bed bug treatments are entirely safe. Heat treatments use no chemicals, making them a popular choice for households with children and pets. Chemical treatments involve pesticides that are approved for use by the EPA and are applied in a controlled manner.
However, it is recommended that people and pets leave the premises during treatment and return only when it is safe to do so. Always follow your pest control provider’s instructions carefully as regards the safety of your family and your pets.
5 – Will Bed Bugs Return After Treatment?
Re-infestation is always possible, especially if the original source of the infestation is not addressed. Bed bugs can re-enter your home through used furniture, shared laundry facilities or even visiting guests. Smart post-treatment practices, such as using mattress encasements, can help reduce the risk of recurrence.
6 – How Much Do Bed Bug Treatments Cost?
The cost of treatment varies based on the size of the property, the severity of the infestation, and the treatment method used. Heat treatments are typically more expensive than traditional chemical-based methods. Professional pest control treatments may seem costly at first glance, but they are often more economical in the long run.
Trying multiple DIY methods that fail to solve the problem ultimately wastes money and may actually lead to an infestation that is more expensive to resolve.
7 – What Should I do to Prepare for Treatment?
Preparation is a crucial part of any bed bug treatment. Your pest control provider should give you a checklist of things to do before treatment can commence. This typically includes the following:
- Launder bedding, clothes, and curtains on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, baseboards, and furniture thoroughly.
- Remove clutter to eliminate hiding spots.
- Unplug electronics and secure valuables.
- Move furniture away for the walls to allow greater access.
Bed bugs are a nuisance that no one wants to deal with, but swift and informed action can bring the situation under control. Whether you’re wondering about the best treatment method, costs, or how to prepare, knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions can help you make smart decisions.
If you suspect a bed bug infestation, don’t delay. Contact a licensed pest control professional to inspect your home and discuss the most effective treatment options. The sooner you act, the easier it is to take back your peace of mind.
Published by Scott Palatnik
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