Bed Bugs
Bed bug pest control is becoming a growing concern in Adelaide, with infestations rising due to increased travel, the trading of second-hand furniture, and changes in pesticide practices. Bed bug pest control is very specialised and differs depending on the infestation and environment. Having them does not mean you are 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. They 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. They are known for their bites, which can cause swelling, irritation, and potential loss of sleep. Fortunately, they are not known to transmit diseases, but they do 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 to reduce Bed Bugs in Adelaide
Preventing a bed bug infestation needs awareness and due diligence, particularly when travelling or purchasing second-hand furniture. These simple steps can help prevent introducing the pests 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, it may require multiple treatments due to their ability to hide in hard-to-reach areas and lay eggs in various household objects.
To help prevent possible re-infestation, it is also highly recommended that you wash your bed linens at a high temperature (at least 60°C) while we conduct our bed bug pest control treatment. 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 effectively impliment bed bug pest control. Our pest control technicians will conduct a thorough inspection, identify bed bug hiding places, and apply bed bug treatments tailored to your 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. These pests are increasingly resisting certain chemicals, so 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 key. However, it is important to note that mattress encasements and protectors alone will not stop them and should be part of an overall bed bug pest control plan. 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. Professional bed bug pest control can help minimise the risk of long-term infestations and keep your home pest-free.
To request a quote or make a booking for a bed bug pest control treatment in Adelaide and SA, call us or click the button below.
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