How Early Bed Bug Detection Can Save Richmond Residents

Richmond is a growing community home to over 233,000 people. With the growth of new homes and properties, there also comes a risk of bed bugs coming into your home. Thankfully, you have the power to take action against these pests and get the results you need.

Let our team at Accel Pest and Termite Control show you how bed bug control helps Richmond residents keep their homes clean and pest-free.

Why Bed Bug Control is Important

The reason bed bug control is so important is that it’s the best solution to keeping your home free of bed bugs from the start. While these pests aren’t known to spread diseases, their bites can cause a series of issues, such as itching and swelling.

With their size and ability to travel on baggage and travel items with ease, it can be a real headache trying to get these creatures out of your belongings without a few stragglers being left behind.

What Do Bed Bugs Look Like?

A great first step is to learning what bed bugs look like, so you know what to look out for. An adult bed bug is long and flat with a round body, often described as balloon-like. They have reddish-brown bodies and are about a quarter of an inch long. They have six legs coming from the sides of their bodies and two antennas sticking out of their heads.

Where Do Bed Bugs Come From?

The way that bed bugs go from nature’s problem to a common house pest is through their ability to hitchhike. They cling to travel bags, luggage, and used furniture, and, due to their small size, can go rather unnoticed. Their rapid reproduction also spells trouble if these pests get into your home.

Whenever you visit a hotel, gym, or other public space, check all your baggage for bed bugs to determineall your belongings are free of bugs.

How To Check for Bed Bugs

The next best step in your pest prevention process is to look around your property for any signs of bed bugs. Common areas where bed bugs linger are beds, as their name implies, and other furniture or textiles. Let us guide you through four common indicators of bed bug infestations to watch for during your regular checks.

1. Bed Bug Droppings

Do you notice any black spots along your bed or furniture? These specks can likely be bed bug droppings. These tiny pellets are comprised of dried blood that the pests feed on. Because they are based on a liquid, such as blood, they are easy to smear, leaving further stains on your possessions.

2. Small Blood Stains

When the bed bugs bite, you may wake up to unexpected small blood stains on your bedsheets or pillowcases. If you can find any bites on your body, trace them back to where you positioned yourself in sleep. This process can help further determine whether you have bed bugs.

3. Shed Skins

Another common behavior in a bed bug’s life cycle is that they shed their skins. These skins can trigger asthma attacks and other allergic reactions, which is why vacuuming your sheets is so crucial.

4. Foul Smells

There’s no denying that bed bugs smell bad. Their glands emit a powerful stench that can linger in your home or bedroom for long periods after infestation. The smell has often been compared to that of coriander and can be detected even by dogs. Keep your nose out for any lingering scents, as they may indicate a bed bug problem.

Bed Bug Treatment and Prevention Tips

Don’t wait for a sign to pop up to protect your home against these pests. You can better your odds against bed bugs through a few precautions and practical steps. These bed bug control tips include:

• Seal away small hiding areas where bed bugs can linger
• Remove any infested items as soon as possible
• Purchase protective covers for furniture and mattresses
• Vacuum your luggage and baggage after every use
• Wash any laundry items at high heat for at least 20-30 minutes
• Monitor and inspect your items for any signs of bed bugs

Professional Pest Control in Richmond, VA

Regular pest control is important for your home’s well-being, as it’s your best defense against bed bugs and other unwanted insect intruders. Instead of trying to handle your bed bug issues alone, turning to professionals can get you the best results without putting you in harm’s way.

Find Your Bed Bug Exterminator in Richmond, VA, at Accel Pest and Termite Control

Get the best bed bug control in Richmond, VA, when you choose Accel Pest and Termite Control. Our Richmond pest control services help homeowners throughout the city get regular, proactive protection against bed bugs and other pests. Our professional technicians take detailed steps to provide tailored solutions to your pest problems.
Contact us online or give us a call to schedule your first Richmond bed bug control appointment today!