Pest Info
We know our pests!
Find out more information here about pests that are common to the Northwest and how we control them
Bed Bugs
The Facts
The recent resurgence of bed bug infestations is due to a number of factors including restrictions on pesticides, their developed resistance to chemicals, and increase in international travel. Here in the Northwest we have had our increasing share of cases over the past 10 years. Bed bugs thrive because of their ability to spread quickly through hitch hiking, and reproduce rapidly, with a female able to produce up to 500 eggs in her lifetime. They are also excellent at finding harborage sites in difficult to access cracks and crevices which makes eradication more of a challenge. To top things off, bed bugs are able to survive without a blood meal for over 3 months! All of this means that 1 female that strays from the nest can quickly be transported to a different location where a new infestation begins. When we lie down to sleep, the increase in CO2 from our breathing will soon draw these bloodsuckers out of their hiding places, locating us through our warmth and smell, soon to become their next meal!
The Solution
Bed bug eradication is not simple, but it is possible! With proper techniques, cooperation between the technician and the customer, and a little patience, the treatment is always successful. Our approach follows the integrated pest management (IPM) strategy, using chemical and non-chemical methods. Part of the process includes installing mattress encasements and bed bug interceptors under the feet of the bed frame to provide a bed bug free sleeping environment on the initial visit. On our initial visit we also apply several products to "knock down" the population immediately. On our second visit we use a natural desiccant powder that works as a residual to dehydrate and kill any surviving insects and their eggs. Using these products and methods in conjunction with specialized equipment to reach hard to access areas guarantees a thorough treatment and complete bed bug eradication!
Common Bed Bug Myths:
Myth: You can’t see a bed bug.
Reality: You should be able to see adult bed bugs, nymphs and eggs with your naked eye.
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Myth: Bed bugs live in dirty places.
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Reality: Bed bugs are not attracted to dirt and grime - they are attracted to warmth, blood and carbon dioxide. However, clutter offers more hiding spots.
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Myth: Bed bugs transmit diseases.
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Reality: There have been no cases or studies that indicate bed bugs pass diseases from one host to another.
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Myth: Bed bugs won't come out if the room is brightly lit.
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Reality: While bed bugs prefer darkness, keeping the light on at night won't deter these pests from biting you.
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Myth: Pesticide applications alone will easily eliminate bed bug infestations.
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Reality: Bed bug control can only be maintained through a treatment strategy that includes a variety of techniques plus careful attention to monitoring. Proper use of pesticides may be part of the strategy, but will not by itself eliminate bed bugs. In addition, bed bug populations in different areas of the country have developed resistance to the ways many pesticides work to kill pests. If you're dealing with a resistant population, some products and application methods may only make the problem worse. It is a good idea to consult a qualified pest management professional (PMP) if you have bed bugs in your home.
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The recent resurgence of bed bugs may leave you sleeping with one eye open. Learn why you can sleep worry free by choosing us to solve your bed bug infestation.
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