As Bend continues to emerge as a popular tourist spot in Oregon, bed bugs are also becoming a bigger concern. While these pests are mostly found in commercial spaces, such as hotels and rental properties, it is common to bring them into your home through luggage. No matter how many sprays and products you try, getting rid of bed bugs is no easy job. You will need a professional exterminator who can offer bespoke solutions depending on the level of infestation. See details here about pest control services and how experts work.
Identifying bed bugs
The good news is bed bugs don’t spread diseases like many other pests. However, if you have these insects at home, you may wake up with red and often itchy bites on your body. Other signs of an infestation also include stains on sheets and linens, and you may also find live bugs behind wallpaper, paintings, and below the bed. Bed bugs also leave a musty odor around.
The initial inspection
Once you call a professional pest control service, they will send technicians and workers to do a complete inspection of your home. They will look for common hiding spots, which aren’t limited to bedrooms. The team will come with all tools and equipment, including flashlights and magnifying glasses. If required, they may passively monitor bed bug activity by setting traps.
Customized treatment plan
If the infestation is confirmed, the professionals will tailor the treatment accordingly. The cost depends on factors like whether you live in an apartment or an independent home, the level of infestation, and the work involved. Some of the common bed bug treatment methods:
- Heat treatment: Typically, technicians recommend heat treatment for bed bugs, which involves raising the temperature to a certain level. Bed bugs and their eggs cannot survive ~122°F. The team will take all due precautions to ensure your home is safe. Heat treatment is effective and doesn’t involve the use of chemicals, but adequate preparation is necessary. Also, you have to leave the house during the process.
- Chemical (insecticide) treatments: If the infestation is extreme, technicians may also use professional-grade insecticides in cracks, furniture, and seams to counter bed bug bugs. Usually, two to three sessions are necessary after the initial treatment. While the process costs less, it can take time before you get complete relief from these blood-sucking insects.
- Steam treatment: In some cases, steam treatment is recommended for infested areas, and the process is similar to heat treatment. However, you may have to leave before the experts prep your home and start the work.
Post-Treatment Protocols
If chemicals are used to eliminate bed bugs, you may have to wait before the technicians tell you it’s safe to enter your home. Many pest control services also vacuum treated areas before leaving. Technicians usually recommend at least one to two follow-up inspections or re-treatments in the next month. They may also leave behind sticky traps to see if the treatment worked or whether the infestation needs further attention.
Partner with a pest control service TODAY!
Ask your neighbors and relatives whether they have worked with exterminators in the past for bed bug issues. You can also find local listings online. You need a reliable and reputed pest control company in Bend that can offer swift assistance and relies on safer, better methods and means. If you can consider a preventive plan, which will include inspections and other steps, that’s always an advantage. Ensure the selected company is licensed, insured, and has an in-house team. Also, don’t forget to check the estimate in detail, which should not have unexplained add-ons.