How To Get Rid Of Bed Bugs
Getting rid of bed bugs yourself can be extremely challenging, as these pests are highly resilient, reproduce quickly, and can hide in tiny cracks and crevices. However, if you are determined to attempt DIY control, there are steps you can take to reduce their numbers, although complete eradication is rarely guaranteed without professional help. Here’s a step by step approach:
Identify the Infestation
Signs: Small rust-colored spots on sheets, shed exoskeletons, live bed bugs, and itchy bites.
Inspect: Check mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, headboards, baseboards, electrical outlets, and any furniture near the sleeping area.
Confirm: A flashlight and magnifying glass help identify nymphs (tiny, almost invisible bed bugs).
Declutter and Isolate
Remove clutter: Bed bugs can hide in books, clothing, and piles of fabric.
Seal items: Place non-washable items in tightly sealed plastic bags for at least a year or use a bed bug–proof container.
Isolate the bed: Move it away from walls and ensure bedding does not touch the floor.
Deep Cleaning
Vacuum thoroughly: Focus on seams, edges of mattresses, baseboards, and furniture. Dispose of vacuum contents in a sealed bag immediately.
Steam cleaning: Bed bugs and eggs die at temperatures above 120°F. Use a high-temperature steamer on mattresses, furniture, and cracks.
Launder fabrics: Wash and dry all bedding, clothing, and curtains at the hottest temperature safe for the fabric. Drying on high heat for at least 30 minutes can kill all life stages.
Encase and Protect
Mattress and box spring encasements: These prevent bed bugs from entering or escaping and make detection easier.
Diatomaceous earth (DE): A thin layer applied around bed frames, baseboards, and carpet edges can desiccate and kill bed bugs. Only use food-grade DE indoors.
Use Insecticides Carefully
EPA-approved products: Bed bug sprays or powders labeled for indoor use.
Caution: Improper use can be dangerous, and bed bugs can develop resistance. Avoid using bug bombs/foggers—they are largely ineffective for bed bugs and may spread them further.
Monitor and Repeat
Bed bug interceptors: Place under bed legs to trap and monitor activity.
Inspect frequently: Bed bugs can return if even a few survive. Repeat cleaning, steaming, and vacuuming every 7–10 days.
Prevent Reinfestation
Seal cracks: Close gaps in baseboards, furniture, and walls.
Be cautious with second-hand items: Inspect and clean them before bringing them home.
Travel vigilance: Check hotel rooms and luggage carefully; launder clothes immediately upon returning home.
DIY methods often reduce numbers but rarely eliminate an infestation entirely. Bed bugs multiply rapidly; even a small missed population can restart the problem.
The Best Way To Get Rid Of Bed Bugs
Hiring our professional bed bug control services is widely considered the most effective way to eliminate bed bugs from a home or business because of the complexity, resilience, and stealthy nature of these pests. Here’s why hiring our professional is the best way to get rid of bed bugs:
Expert Knowledge and Experience
Bed bugs are highly skilled at hiding in tiny crevices—mattresses, box springs, bed frames, baseboards, furniture seams, and even electrical outlets. Our professionals are trained to:
Accurately identify infestation sites.
Recognize the signs of bed bugs at all life stages (eggs, nymphs, adults).
Understand the behaviors and biology of bed bugs to target treatments effectively.
Homeowners often miss hidden infestations, which leads to re-infestation.
Access to Professional-Grade Treatments
Many over-the-counter products are limited in effectiveness. Our professional exterminators have access to stronger insecticides, specifically formulated for bed bugs, often with residual effects that continue killing for weeks. Our professionals also know the proper application rates and sequences to avoid ineffective treatment or resistance.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Approach
Our professional bed bug control uses an IPM strategy, which combines:
Inspection: Thorough assessment to determine infestation scope.
Treatment: Targeted chemical, heat, or combined methods.
Monitoring: Follow-up inspections to ensure eradication.
Education: Guidance on prevention and reducing future infestations.
This holistic approach is far more effective than DIY spraying, which often addresses only visible bugs.
Safety
Improper use of chemicals can be hazardous to humans and pets. Our professionals are trained to:
Choose treatments safe for indoor environments.
Apply chemicals correctly to minimize exposure risks.
Handle specialized equipment (heat units, steamers) safely.
Guaranteed Results and Follow-Up
Our professional services provide:
Guaranteed eradication: We will re-treat if bed bugs return.
Comprehensive coverage: All hiding spots are treated.
Peace of mind: Reducing stress and preventing the spread to and from neighboring units or areas.
Time and Stress Management
DIY bed bug removal is extremely time-consuming and emotionally draining. Our professionals can treat an entire home or business efficiently, often completing initial treatment in one day and reducing the need for ongoing manual effort.
Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to eliminate because of their size, hiding ability, rapid reproduction, and common resistance to standard insecticides. Our professional exterminators combine expertise, tools, and a structured approach to ensure complete eradication, making them the most reliable and efficient choice for protecting your home or business.