Savannah Bed Bug Control

Savannah Bed Bug Removal FAQ

What Are Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They are flat, oval-shaped, and about the size of an apple seed. These nocturnal pests are masters of hiding and can be found in a variety of places, not just beds. While they don't transmit diseases, their bites can cause itchy, red welts and lead to a great deal of stress. A bed bug's life cycle includes egg, nymph, and adult stages, and they can reproduce rapidly, making infestations difficult to control.

Where Do Bed Bugs Like to Hide?

Bed bugs are experts at hiding and prefer to live in close proximity to their food source—you. Their primary hiding spots are mattresses, box springs, and bed frames, where they can easily access you while you sleep. However, they can also be found in crevices of furniture like couches, chairs, and dressers. Other common hiding places include behind electrical outlets, in the seams of curtains, and under loose wallpaper. Since they are so small and flat, they can fit into the tiniest cracks and crevices, making a thorough inspection crucial.

What Kills Bed Bugs Instantly?

While some methods can kill bed bugs instantly, they are not a complete solution for an infestation. Extreme heat, such as that from a steam cleaner or professional heat treatment, can kill bed bugs and their eggs on contact. Diatomaceous earth can also kill them by dehydrating their exoskeletons, but this process takes time. However, sprays and other products you can buy at the store often only kill adult bed bugs, not the eggs, which allows the infestation to continue. A professional exterminator has the specialized equipment and knowledge to eliminate all stages of the bed bug life cycle.

How Can I Tell If I Have a Bed Bug Problem?

The most common sign of a bed bug problem is the presence of small, red, itchy bites on your skin, often appearing in lines or clusters. You may also find tiny reddish-brown bloodstains on your sheets or pillowcases, which are left behind after a bed bug has fed. Another key indicator is the appearance of small, dark or blackish fecal spots on your mattress, box spring, or bedding. In a heavy infestation, you may notice a sweet, musty odor. Finally, look for shed exoskeletons or small, white eggs in the crevices of your bed and furniture.

Can Bed Bugs Survive Outdoors?

While it is possible for bed bugs to survive outdoors for a short period, they are not suited for living in a natural outdoor environment. They need a host to feed on and prefer the stable temperatures of an indoor setting. If a bed bug is accidentally left outside, it will likely not survive for long, especially in extreme heat or cold. The only way bed bugs are found outdoors is if they are hitchhiking on furniture or other items that are temporarily placed outside. Therefore, a bed bug infestation is an indoor problem that must be addressed within the home.