Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are becoming a growing concern in Adelaide, with infestations increasing due to increased travel, the rise of second-hand furniture, and changes in pesticide practices. Treatment is very specialised and differs depending on the infestation and environment. Having bed bugs doesn’t mean you’re unsanitary, just unlucky because they’ve likely hitchhiked a ride to your place from somewhere else.
Identifying Bed Bugs
These small, wingless insects (Cimex lectularius and Cimex hemipterus) feed on the blood of humans and other warm-blooded animals, primarily at night. They are about 4-5mm long, rusty-brown in colour, and capable of surviving for up to seven months without feeding. Bed Bugs have also been known to live in empty buildings for up to a year, making infestations extremely difficult to detect early.
Bed bugs often hide in tight spaces near human sleeping areas such as mattress seams, bed frames, furniture, and even cracks in walls or behind skirting boards. Infestations can be identified by the bugs themselves or the presence of eggs, blood spots on bedding, or a sickly-sweet odour accompanying larger populations. Bed bugs are known for their bites, which can cause swelling, irritation, and potential loss of sleep. Fortunately, they are not known to transmit diseases, but bed bugs move around quickly and, if not treated professionally, can quickly reach an epidemic level.
The two species are taxonomically differentiated based on the shape of the pronotum (or plate-like structure) of the thorax; the Common species (right) has a pronounced lateral extension of the pronotum, making it much wider than the Tropical species.
Prevention Measures for Bed Bugs in Adelaide
Preventing a bed bug infestation requires awareness and due diligence, particularly when travelling or purchasing second-hand furniture. These simple steps can help prevent introducing bed bugs into your home:
- Inspect any second-hand furniture purchases carefully, especially mattresses and upholstered items.
- Inspect luggage after travelling and wash clothes in hot water.
- Seal cracks and crevices in walls and floors to reduce hiding spots.
Bed bugs are frequently reported in accommodations such as hostels and hotels. Ensuring cleanliness and regularly inspecting for bed bugs is crucial for preventing hitchhiking back to your home.
Treatment Options
If you suspect bed bugs in your home in Adelaide, acting quickly is essential. Contact Greens Environmental Pest Services. Our pest control technicians use industry-standard, environmentally safe insecticides, which are commonly effective in killing bed bugs. However, bed bugs may require multiple treatments due to their ability to hide in hard-to-reach areas and lay eggs in various household objects.
Washing your bed linens at a high temperature (at least 60°C) when we conduct our bed bug pest control treatment is also highly recommended to help prevent possible re-infestation. In severe cases, discarding heavily infested items, especially mattresses, may be necessary as they can be challenging to treat effectively.
The Importance of Professional Help
Greens Environmental Pest Services has the tools and expertise to manage bed bug infestations effectively. Our pest control technicians will conduct a thorough inspection, identify bed bug hiding places, and apply treatments tailored to the situation.
While over-the-counter treatments are available, they often have limited success, and only some have been verified as efficacious by an independent scientific body or institution. Bed bugs are increasingly developing resistance to certain chemicals, which is why relying on professional pest control treatments is essential to ensure the problem is addressed correctly.
Ongoing Bed Bug Management
After treatment, preventing re-infestation is a priority. However, it is important to note that mattress encasements and protectors cannot stop bed bugs alone and should be part of an overall bed bug management program. Regularly inspect your home for signs of bed bugs, especially after travelling or purchasing second-hand furniture. Keep clutter to a minimum to reduce hiding spots and seal any cracks or gaps in furniture, walls, and floors.
A proactive approach rather than a reactive one is always best and professional pest control can help minimise the risk of long-term infestations. By seeking expert help, Adelaide residents can manage bed bug infestations and keep their homes bed-bug-free.
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