Bid Farewell to Bed Bugs: The Value of Professional Pest Control

No one ever wants to deal with bed bugs. These tiny, bloodthirsty pests can turn your sanctuary into a nightmare and in recent months these tiny insects have been making the news. 

Bed bug infestations have been on the rise in Paris but also across Europe. The reasons for this resurgence are multifaceted. Increased travel, the banning of certain pesticides, and growing resistance to available treatments have all contributed to the spread of these resilient pests.

Bed bugs are notorious hitchhikers, latching onto luggage, clothing, and personal belongings as unwitting travellers move from one place to another. This makes them particularly adept at invading homes, hotels, and other accommodations. There is a real threat the invasion could reach the UK any day now.

The mere mention of bed bugs can send shivers down your spine, and rightfully so. These unwelcome intruders are notoriously challenging to eliminate. 

As leading pest controllers in London and the South East, Shield Pest Control has supported countless customers deal with and eradicate pests in their homes and businesses.

In this blog post, our team explore effective methods for getting rid of bed bugs and why enlisting the services of a professional pest control company like Shield Pest Control is often the most prudent choice.

The Bed Bug Menace

Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are small, flat, reddish-brown insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. While they are not known to transmit diseases, their bites can cause itching and discomfort. 

Their resilience and ability to hide in cracks and crevices make bed bugs a formidable adversary in the battle for a pest-free environment.

Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation

Bed bug bites often appear as small, itchy red welts, usually in a line or cluster on exposed skin, such as the arms, legs, or neck. Finding small bloodstains on your sheets or pyjamas is also an indication of bed bugs, as the pests are often crushed during sleep.

Bed bugs leave behind dark faecal spots that resemble tiny ink spots. These can be found on mattresses, bedding, or nearby furniture. Plus, bed bugs molt as they grow, leaving behind translucent eggshells and shed skins.

Occasionally, you might spot live bed bugs, especially in the seams and folds of your mattress, headboard, or baseboards.

Effective Bed Bug Eradication

Getting rid of bed bugs is not a task for the faint of heart. It requires persistence, thoroughness, and often the expertise of a professional pest control company.

Start by decluttering your home. Bed bugs can hide in the smallest of spaces, so reducing the number of hiding spots is essential. Launder all bedding, curtains, and clothing on the hottest setting. Bed bugs cannot survive extreme temperatures, so heat is your ally.

Vacuum every nook and cranny of your home, paying close attention to seams, creases, and corners. Be sure to discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister outside of your living space. Seal any cracks, crevices, and gaps in your home. Bed bugs often hide in these areas, and sealing them can help reduce their hiding spots.

Encase your mattress and box spring with bed bug-proof covers. This will trap any remaining bed bugs and prevent them from escaping or infesting your mattress.

If you’re bringing in second-hand furniture, thoroughly inspect it for any signs of bed bugs before introducing it into your home.

While some over-the-counter insecticides can be effective, it’s crucial to use them with caution and according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Why Choose Professional Pest Control

While DIY methods can help reduce the severity of a bed bug infestation, they often fall short of complete eradication. Here’s why turning to a professional pest control company like Shield Pest Control is the smartest choice:

• Expertise: Bed bud pest control professionals have the knowledge and experience to locate and eliminate bed bugs effectively. They understand their behaviour and know where to look.
  
  
• Effective Treatments: Professional pest control companies use a range of treatment methods that are proven to be highly effective, including chemical and non-chemical options.
  
  
• Thoroughness: Pest control experts leave no stone unturned. They inspect every possible hiding spot, ensuring that no bed bugs are left behind.
  
  
• Prevention: Professionals can provide advice on preventing future infestations, helping you safeguard your home.
  
  
• Safe Handling: Bed bug treatments often involve the use of chemicals that can be hazardous if mishandled. Pest control experts are trained in the safe application of these substances.
  
  
• Guaranteed Results: Many professional pest control companies offer guarantees, ensuring that if the bed bugs return within a specified period, they will retreat your home at no additional cost.