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Beware! The bed bugs are coming. You may not know it, but your home could be on the top of the list of best places to them invade! Take the right steps now to avoid an infestation.

How do I look for bed bugs?

The first step to eliminating bed bugs or any kind of infestation like this is to do some detective work. Remember, you can actually see bed bugs, so get ready to look through the entire room. Bring along a solid flashlight and maybe a magnifying glass too.

You’ll notice them right away because they can leave spots on your mattress. They’re typically a reddish-brown, and they have a very distinct smell.

If you’re getting rid of bed bugs, it might also help if you know what they look like. They’re small, flat creatures, so they can hide almost anywhere. Not only can they hang out in the cracks and crevices of your mattress, they could also be hiding between floorboards or in other locations. No area in your home should go unchecked, but you’ll want to examine the sleeping areas most of all.

Is there anything special I should do before I start cleaning?

Before you get started with your bed bug control program, you may want to do some serious cleaning. Take all of the bedding off, then start to declutter. You should do this in every room, but pay special attention to the bedroom. You don’t want to have anything they could hide under.

You may want to do some vacuuming so they can’t hide. A hand-brush can help you manage any infestations. As you vacuum, don’t forget about your mattress. Turn it upside down so you can reach everything. Be sure to get down on the seams and folds.

Are there any other cleaning tips I should know?

Throw your sheets, pillowcases, bed skirt, and blankets in a hot dryer for at least 20 minutes to get rid of bed bugs. You’ll want the temp to reach 140 degrees or higher. You can also stand the legs of your bed in soapy water or even coat them with some petroleum jelly to keep the bed bugs from moving around. If you find any crevices, you can seal them with caulk to keep bed bugs out of them. Getting a zippered mattress cover can also help.

How do I completely eliminate bed bugs?

Total elimination is obviously the goal, but that’s going to take some time and patience, even if you hire a professional company like Ross Environmental to help. It’s tough to find all of the places they hide, and even if the approach you take is working, they can stay alive for up to ten days.

Bed bugs can be a huge hassle, but a bit of time and energy, as well as the right pest control company, can help you eliminate the problem forever.

Article Source: Gulfstreambugs.com