What are bed bugs?
Bed bugs are tiny, parasitic insects of the cimicid family that feed exclusively on blood. Bed bugs are both adaptive and resilient, and have been found in virtually every corner of the world. While there are over 90 bedbug species, only three have been known to feed on human blood. These species and others will feed on pets, though this is less common for species found in North America.
How do I identify a bed bug?
Adult bed bugs are typically reddish brown in color and grow to 4-5 millimeters in length and 1.3-3 millimeters in width. Adults have small, pad-like front wings and no hind wings. Nymphs (newly-hatched bed bugs) are lighter and more translucent in color. Telltale signs of bed bug infestations include small dark-colored droppings in and around furniture, reddish stains on sheets and upholstery, scattered small white egg shells, and rashes or bite marks on your skin.
Where should I look for bed bugs?
As a general rule, bed bugs like to live where they can feed and hide. Look for them underneath furniture, in cracks and creases in the walls, and in the seams in your bedding and bed frame. Anything with fabric or small cracks is prime real estate for these tiny insects.
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How prevalent are bed bug infestations?
Bed bugs are found in all countries and all 50 states in the U.S. The prevalence of bed bug infestations varies from city to city, with 5% of households* or fewer reporting infestations in mild cases, and up to 20-30% of households reporting infestations in severe cases.
What are the top 10 cities for bed bug infestations?
- Cleveland, OH
- Cincinnati, OH
- Detroit, MI
- Las Vegas, NV
- Philadelphia, PA
- Denver, CO
- Houston, TX
- Oklahoma City, OK
- Phoenix, AZ
- Indianapolis, IN
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What is the best bed bug treatment option?
Historically, insecticides have been used to treat bed bug infestations. However, recent studies have shown that over half of bed bug species have developed or are developing resistance to the chemicals used in common insecticides. What’s worse, these chemicals can be harmful to the environment and those living under your roof. Environmentally-friendly and 100% effective at eliminating bed bugs, our bed bug heaters here at PrevSol Bed Bug Heat Doctor are the easy choice when it comes to treating infestations. All bed bug species die at 111̊F. Their eggs die at 117̊F. Our heaters heat rooms to temperatures exceeding 125̊F to ensure thorough extermination with no residual damage.
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Statistics obtained from American Housing Survey, Orkin, Terminix, Eastern Arizona Courier, Hartz. (2015 and 2016 studies.)