This archive report was first published on 10 January 2020.
Debunking Common Bed Bug Infestation Myths ¶
For many homeowners, the thought of bed bugs in their home can be a nightmare. These pests can infest any home, regardless of cleanliness or location, and their bites can be difficult to identify.
One common myth is that bed bugs only infest dirty homes. However, this is not true. Bed bugs are attracted to the warmth and carbon dioxide emitted by humans, and they can infest even the cleanest homes.
Another myth is that bed bugs only live in big cities. However, this is also not true. Bed bugs can survive anywhere where humans and animals live, including suburbs and rural areas.
Some people believe that having a cat or dog will keep their home pest-free. However, this is not the case. While pets can help detect bed bugs, they are not a reliable method of control.
It's also a myth that bed bugs only live in foam mattresses. While bed bugs may not live inside the foam, they can squeeze themselves into any crack or crevice on the bed, including the frame.
Another common myth is that bed bugs are too small to see with the naked eye. However, this is not true. Bed bugs are small, but they are not invisible. When they feed, they become plump and can be seen with the naked eye.
Some people believe that bed bugs can fly or jump. However, this is not true. Bed bugs do not have wings and are not capable of flight. They can only crawl at a speed of about one meter per minute.
It's also a myth that bed bugs only feed in the dark. While bed bugs are nocturnal and are most active at night, they can feed at any time. Keeping your lights on will not prevent bed bugs from biting you.
Finally, some people believe that you can recognize a bed bug's bite. However, this is not true. Bed bug bites can be difficult to identify, and some people may not react to them at all. A cluster of red marks where several bugs were biting on exposed skin is a common sign of bites, but some bites may not be visible.
Bed bugs can survive for up to three months without food, but this can vary depending on the conditions. They can survive for longer in colder conditions, and younger pests eat more than grown ones.
One of the most misguided misconceptions about bed bugs is that rubbing alcohol is the best DIY bed bug control hack. However, this is not true. Dosing your furniture with alcohol can be a fire hazard, and it may not even work.
Finally, it's a myth that bed bugs only live in beds. While bed bugs do love hanging out inside beds and bedding, they can also be found in curtains, couches' seams, drawers, screw heads, electrical outlets, and wallpapers.
