Thurman Homes Blog

Sleep tight, don’t let the bedbugs bite. With all the traveling and guests you may have had in your home recently, the last thing anyone wants to hear is bedbugs. But your team at Thurman Homes wants to make sure you and your family are safe. Bedbugs are an unwelcome nuisance that can infest homes, hotels, and even public spaces. These tiny pests are known for their ability to spread quickly and their resilience against many common pest control methods. If you suspect a bedbug problem, it’s crucial to act fast. In this month’s article, we will cover how to identify bedbugs and effectively get rid of them.

Signs of a Bedbug Infestation

Bedbugs are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on human blood, usually at night. Identifying an infestation early can prevent it from worsening.

Look for these signs:

• Bite marks – Small, red, itchy welts on the skin, often in clusters or a line pattern.
• Bloodstains on sheets – Small reddish or rust-colored stains from crushed bedbugs.
• Dark spots on bedding and furniture – Bedbug excrement appears as tiny black or brown dots.
• Shed skins – As bedbugs grow, they shed their exoskeletons, leaving behind small, translucent shells.
• A musty odor – Large infestations produce a distinct, musty smell.

Common Hiding Spots

Bedbugs are excellent at hiding in tiny crevices, including:

• Mattress seams and box springs
• Headboards and bed frames
• Upholstered furniture
• Baseboards and electrical outlets
• Luggage and clothing

How to Confirm the Presence of Bedbugs

If you suspect bedbugs, confirm their presence with these steps:

• Use a flashlight and magnifying glass to inspect mattress seams, bedding, and nearby furniture.
• Check behind picture frames, electrical outlets, and baseboards where bedbugs may hide.
• Use sticky traps or interceptor cups under bed legs to capture bedbugs.

If you’re still unsure, a professional pest control company can conduct an inspection.

How to Get Rid of Bedbugs

Once you’ve confirmed an infestation, take action immediately.

DIY Bedbug Removal

1. Wash and dry bedding, clothing, and curtains on high heat – Heat above 120°F kills bedbugs and eggs.
2. Vacuum thoroughly – Focus on mattresses, furniture, and carpets, then dispose of the vacuum bag immediately.
3. Use a steamer – Steam cleaning at high temperatures can eliminate bedbugs in hard-to-reach areas.
4. Apply bedbug-proof mattress encasements – These traps prevent bedbugs from hiding and feeding.
5. Declutter the room – Reduce hiding spots by removing unnecessary items.

When to Call a Professional

If DIY methods don’t work or the infestation is severe, contact a pest control professional. Exterminators use heat treatments, insecticides, and fumigation to eliminate bedbugs effectively.

How to Prevent Future Infestations

Preventing bedbugs is easier than eliminating them. Follow these precautions:

• Inspect hotel rooms and vacation rentals before unpacking.
• Wash travel clothing and luggage liners immediately after returning home.
• Seal cracks and crevices in walls, furniture, and flooring to remove hiding places.
• Use mattress and pillow protectors to deter bedbugs.
• Be cautious when bringing secondhand furniture into your home—always inspect and clean thoroughly.

Stay Vigilant to Keep Bedbugs Away

Hopefully, now you truly can sleep well knowing bedbugs don’t have to be a pest in your Thurman home. Early detection and swift action are key to keeping your home bedbug-free. Regular inspections, cleanliness, and professional treatments when necessary will help you avoid the stress of an infestation. If you suspect bedbugs, don’t wait—take steps immediately to protect your home and health.