Unfortunately, Madison is home to a wide range of pests. These pests can get into your home and cause a wide range of issues, from property damage to food contamination to diseases.
Most pests are attracted to food, water, and shelter, which is why they love to inhabit our homes and yards. In the case of bed bugs, though, these tiny critters enjoy living off their hosts — humans.
Bed bugs are small, flat, wingless insects that are reddish-brown in color. They are about the size of Lincoln’s head on a penny, ranging from 1mm to 7mm in size. Bed bugs are attracted to body heat and carbon dioxide, which is why they feed off humans.
Bed bugs bite to feed on blood, which is their only source of nutrition. They need blood meals to mature into adults and produce eggs. Adult females can lay up to three eggs per day. Bed bugs may feed along blood vessels and along lines where the skin touches the bedding.
Bed bugs drink your blood for a few minutes before becoming full. They then detach from your skin and crawl away to digest their meal. These feedings can lead to red, itchy bites. This can lead to anxiety, irritation, infections, insomnia, and more.
Are you losing sleep over bed bugs? If so, see how an initial inspection from Magic City Pest Control can get rid of your pest problems for good so you can rest peacefully again. Our expert bed bug control services are here to provide the peace of mind you deserve. With years of experience and cutting-edge solutions, our team works hard to ensure that your home, family or business is free from these stubborn pests. With our comprehensive bed bug control services, you’ll sleep peacefully again. Get a quote today for a pest control plan for your pest control needs.
Signs of Bed Bugs
Here are some common signs of a bed bug infestation to look out for:
- Live bed bugs. The most obvious sign of a bed bug infestation is seeing live bed bugs. These small, reddish-brown insects are about the size of an apple seed. They are active at night but may be spotted hiding in mattress seams, bed frames, and cracks and crevices near sleeping areas
- Bites on skin. You may see red, itchy welts on exposed skin, often in a line or cluster. Reactions vary: some people may not react to bites, while others develop pronounced irritation.
- Blood stains on sheets. You may see small, rust-colored spots caused by squishing bed bugs after they feed.
- Dark fecal spots. Tiny black or brown specks, resembling ink spots, are often found on bedding, along mattress seams, and on walls or furniture near the bed.
- Shed skin. Bed bugs shed their skin as they grow, leaving behind light-brown, translucent exoskeletons.
- Eggs. Bed bug eggs are tiny, white, and oval-shaped (about 1mm in size). They are usually hidden in crevices, seams, or dark, protected areas.
- Musty odor. You may notice a strong, sweet, musty smell (similar to old, damp clothes), which can indicate a severe infestation.
Where to Find Bed Bugs
Where are bed bugs hiding in your home? Bed bugs are elusive pests that typically hide in areas close to where people sleep or spend prolonged periods. Here are common places to find them:
- In bedrooms. Look under mattresses and box springs along seams, tufts, and folds. They can be found in bed frames and headboards especially in cracks, joints, or crevices of wooden or metal frames. They can also be found in beds, such as in bedding and linens and inside pillowcases, bed skirts, or duvet covers.
- Furniture. Check furniture for bed bug activity. These pests can be found in sofas and chairs, in cushions and seams, or beneath upholstery. They can also hide around zippers and edges.
- Dressers and nightstands. Bed bugs can be found inside drawers, underneath the furniture, or behind backs of units.
- Room areas. Bed bugs can hide in carpets and rugs or under furniture. They can be found in walls and baseboards inside cracks, crevices, or gaps in molding. They can also hide behind electrical outlet covers and wall fixtures. You can also look for them in curtains and drapes along folds and near attachment points.
- Luggage and personal belongings. Bed bugs like to attach to objects and hitch rides, so if you have recently been traveling, take a close look at your suitcases and bags. Look in all the seams and compartments. You should check your clothing and shoes as well.
- Other locations. Check the spines of books and magazines for bed bugs. They also like to hide in stacked piles. They may also be found inside electronics. They like to take shelter inside devices like alarm clocks or speakers near beds.
How Professionals Get Rid of Bed Bugs Using Pest Control Services
Getting rid of bed bugs professionally typically involves a comprehensive approach. We inspect all areas where bed bugs and other unwanted pests might hide, including mattresses, box springs, bed frames, furniture, baseboards, and cracks. We confirm the infestation level and identify bed bug species to tailor the initial service treatment plan.
We may use chemical treatments such as EPA-approved insecticides in multiple formulations ( sprays, dust, or aerosols) to kill bed bugs. Some chemicals provide lasting protection to kill bed bugs that emerge later. Heat treatments are also effective. Thermal remediation is a non-toxic method where the infested space is heated to 120 to 140°F to kill bed bugs and eggs. Steam treatments may be applied to mattresses, furniture, and cracks. This method kills bed bugs and eggs on contact. Cryonite or freezing bed bug treatments may also be used. CO2 freezing uses carbon dioxide snow to freeze the environment and kill bed bugs, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
Contact Us Today for Residential Pest Control and Bed Bug Control in Madison, AL
If you can’t sleep tight because the bed bugs are biting, you need professional pest control services right away to get rid of these pesky insects. Magic City Pest Control can help. If you are dealing with bed bugs in your Madison home or business, our pest control company can help you sleep peacefully again. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing you with effective and efficient pest removal services and pest control treatments for your home or business. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today for a pest-free home tomorrow and get rid of bed bugs fast!
Schedule an inspection today by calling (205) 880-4466 or contacting us online for pest control in Madison, AL for your bed bug and pest issues.