6 Common Myths About Bed Bugs
In this day and time, it is easier than ever to look up anything you have ever wanted to know about a particular topic. However, just because someone tells you something or you see it posted on social media, it doesn’t mean that it is true. It’s important to get your information from a reputable and knowledgeable source.
At Hopper Termite & Pest, Inc., we know about bugs! Here are 6 common myths you may have heard about one popular bug, the bed bug, and how Hopper can help you sleep better at night.
Myth #1: Bed Bugs Are Too Small to See
While it is true that it is difficult to see something that you have never seen before, you can see a bed bug with the naked eye. Adult bed bugs are generally the size of an apple seed and are a dark reddish-brown color. However, it is true that you may need to use a magnifying glass to check for bed bugs that have not quite reached the adult stage of the life cycle.
Myth #2: Throwing Away Your Mattress Gets Rid of Bed Bugs
Wouldn’t it be great if this myth was true!?! Unfortunately, throwing away your mattress and bedding will NOT get rid of bed bugs. Bed bugs like to stay within about 5 feet of their host. And as their population grows, bed bugs tend to spread out even more. You can find bed bugs in electrical outlets, alarm clocks, nightstands, frames, and more.
Myth #3: Bed Bugs Prefer Dirty, Unsanitary Conditions
Your home can be the cleanest home on Earth, and you can still get bed bugs. While an unsanitary or messy home can present more hiding places for bed bugs, the truth is that they simply do not care how clean your home is. In fact, hospitals have even been known to get bed bugs. As long as your veins are pumping blood, you are a source of food for these bugs.
Myth #4: Bed Bugs Only Come out at Night
It is true that bed bugs are nocturnal. However, if you are stretched out on your bed in the middle of the day, you can still be bitten. Keeping the light on in the middle of the night won’t keep the bed bugs away either. If you are close by and a bed bug is hungry, then you could become the host whether it’s light or dark in the room.
Myth #5: Bed Bugs Transmit Dangerous Diseases
Bed bugs often get confused with their friend the flea. Unlike fleas, there have been no reports of bed bugs spreading or transmitting any type of disease. However, their bites can cause different reactions in different people. Some people may be allergic to their bites, and therefore, extreme itching and redness may occur. Some people may never see a bite or a reaction.
Myth #6: Store-Bought Treatments Can Get Rid of Bed Bugs
There are many companies out there that say their products will get rid of bed bugs. The catchy phrases mixed with bogus statistics and facts get many people to purchase these quick remedies. However, the truth is that bed bugs are not easy to get rid of and one treatment is not enough. Not only are store-bought pesticides ineffective on bed bugs, but they can make the situation worse.
Hopper Can Help You Get Rid of Bed Bugs
When it comes to getting rid of bed bugs, you need to call the professionals. Our trained technicians know where to look to find these pests, and they know the best treatments to use in order to exterminate the bed bugs. We know that DIY tactics look like a quick, easy, and affordable way to treat the situation. However, we also know that you will probably end up spending more money in the long run without any results. Whether you are looking for bed bug extermination in Mountain Home or the best bed bug treatment in Fayetteville, Hopper Termite & Pest, Inc. has you covered. Our service area spreads far and wide across the Ozarks to include areas such as Flippin, Cotter, Mountain View, southern Missouri, and everywhere in between. Give us a call today at (870)425-4122 and say goodbye to your bed bug problems.