It’s getting harder to avoid bed bugs in Salt Lake City. Between our growing population and increasingly product-resistant pests, removing an infestation can feel like a monumental task.
Fortunately, it’s much easier to avoid a potential bed bug infestation than to fight off an existing problem. That’s why Pest Pro Pest Control wrote this guide – so you can avoid bed bug problems around your home.
First, we explain how to find bed bug hiding spots and reduce your chances of getting exposed. Then, we highlight their characteristics and behaviors so you can make a positive identification after capturing a live bug.
Worried about acquiring a bed bug problem? Here, Pest Pro Pest Control offers some effective prevention steps. But if you’ve already brought back a bed bug infestation, we outline our process for bed bug control in Salt Lake City.
Let’s get started.
Common Bed Bug Hiding Spots
It’s a lot easier to spot a bed bug infestation if you know where these pests can hide. Fortunately, research indicates a few specific areas prone to the activities of bed bugs.
These include:
- Electrical outlets
- Nightstands and dressers
- Books and bookshelves
- Baseboards
- Bed frames and headboards
- Upholstered furniture
- Mattresses
- Box springs
You can search these areas for the signs of bed bugs by using the ‘credit card test.’ Take a flat-edged object (like your credit card or driver’s license) and swipe along the edges and corners of the object. If a six-legged insect runs out from the cracks, capture it in a jar and move to the section below.
Characteristics And Behaviors Of Bed Bugs
Do you truly have a bed bug infestation, or are you struggling with a different type of pest? You can get to the bottom of this question by identifying the insect you captured.
For starters, let’s look at the characteristics of this pest. Does it have six legs, an oval body, and a brownish-red coloration? Bed bugs are approximately 1/4 of an inch long or roughly the size of an apple seed.
Next, compare the behaviors of this bug to the corresponding symptoms in your home. Are there brown or black spots on your mattress or bed sheets? Do you have itchy bed bug bites in a zig-zag pattern?
If you have answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, you may be dealing with a bed bug infestation. You can chat with the team at Pest Pro Pest Control to confirm your suspicions with a professional inspection.
Tips For Avoiding Bed Bugs While Traveling
Avoiding bed bug activity completely is not a feasible strategy. The only way to do this would be to never leave your home – which is not an option if you want a high-quality life.
Thankfully, there are many ways to avoid bed bug activity, even while in hot spots or at-risk areas. Here are our most effective strategies for protecting yourself and your loved ones:
- After a trip, wash your clothing on the highest heat setting to remove breeding adults or eggs.
- Inspect your hotel, motel, or Airbnb room for any signs of bed bug activity (and leave if suspicions arise).
- Don’t purchase secondhand appliances, beds, or furniture unless you can be 100% certain about where they’re coming from.
Keep in mind prevention tips do nothing against active infestations. The most efficient way to get rid of bed bugs in Salt Lake City is to schedule a treatment with Pest Pro Pest Control.
What To Do If You Find Bed Bugs In Your Home
Pest Pro Pest Control is Salt Lake City’s favorite provider of bed bug treatments. We offer full-service applications and a six-week guarantee so you can be sure that bed bugs are out of your house.
Want additional details? Call us today. We would be happy to provide you with a no-obligation consultation.