Are You Ready For Bed Bug Prevention Month In Manchester?

It’s that time of year again: Bed Bug Prevention month! This month is so beneficial to Manchester residents, not only for your own home but also when traveling as well. As these pests love to travel just as much as we do, it’s important to understand what they look like, their life cycle, signs of an infestation, and prevention tips.

If you have an infestation in your home or simply want to learn more about what Bed Bug Prevention Month entails, turn to Manchester Pest Control as your trusted resource.

The Life Cycle Of The Manchester Bed Bug 

A common myth about bed bugs is that they’re too small to see, and because people believe the myth, people also use less caution when inspecting for bed bugs. If you look at the life cycle of a bed bug, you’ll see that the myth has some falsehoods, as bed bugs are very visible to the naked eye. 

• Egg: 1mm (creamy white color)
• Nymph Stage 1: 1.5 mm long
• Nymph Stage 2: 2 mm long
• Nymph Stage 3: 2.5mm long
• Nymph Stage 4: 3 mm long
• Nymph Stage 5: 4.5 mm long
• Adult: 5.5 mm long

A bed bug egg and nymph stages can be a little more difficult to see with the naked eye simply because they’re a milky white color, but once the nymphs molt and get bigger, they become easier to see. An adult bed bug can reach the size of an apple seed. The thing to note is that if you’re thoroughly inspecting your bed or the bed at accommodations, you’ll be able to see bed bugs if they’re there.

How Can I Tell If I Have A Bed Bug Infestation?

Having a bed bug infestation is terrible, of course; however, the good news is that they always leave their mark, making it easier for you to identify whether you have a true infestation or not.

Here are some of the signs to look for:

• Musty-smelling bed or mattress from the bug’s scent glands
• Fecal spots in areas where bed bugs hide
• Bloodstains on your sheets, bedding, or pillowcases
• Molted bed bug skin
• Red itching welts on your skin

If you’ve noticed two or more of these signs, there’s a high chance you have a bed bug infestation in your home and need to call in professionals that handle bed bug control near you.

Five Tips For Bed Bug Prevention

Bed Bug prevention starts with identifying what causes bed bugs. Once you know the cause, you can then implement these prevention methods.

• Run a steamer over your mattress on both sides.
• Wash your sheets and bedding often.
• Use a mattress cover that kills and repels bed bugs.
• Inspect mattresses when traveling.
• Check clothing, luggage, and pillows before traveling back home from vacation.

Bed bugs will jump off of a bed onto your clothes or luggage. Always check out your accommodations before returning home. Also, having regular bed bug inspections is always a good idea, especially after traveling. 

How To Keep Bed Bugs Away From Your Home

Remember, bed bugs don’t just appear in your home out of nowhere. These bugs are hitchhikers and will go wherever you go, including your home. Ultimately, whenever you travel, always inspect the beds wherever you stay to ensure that no infestation is there and travels home with you.

However, when you have an active bed bug infestation in your home, the safest and most effective method to get rid of bed bugs is with professional bed bug control services. 

At EcoChoice Termite & Pest Control, LLC, we offer treatment plans that not only eliminate pests but also prevent them from making return visits to your home. You can learn more about bud bugs and our services during Bed Bug Prevention Month. Give us a call today for more information.