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The mere thought of bed bugs in Mobile, AL is enough to strike fear into most people’s hearts. These pesky little critters can hitch a ride home from hotels, friends’ homes and even movie theaters, and once they get inside your home, they’re there to stay.

Until the early 2000s, bed bugs were rarely found in the developed world. Over time, though, these nasty little pests have become stronger and more resilient against common insecticides and more prevalent in the U.S. Contrary to their name, bed bugs don’t just live in beds but can also hide in wallpaper, furniture and carpets. While they might not have wings, they can crawl quite a distance at a time, allowing them to stow away in bedding, clothes, bags and luggage.

Spotting Bed Bugs

Common bed bugs, which are the type that bothers people, are only about a quarter of an inch long. They are reddish brown, round and flat. They tend to bite exposed body parts, such as the arms, hands, neck and face, and they are more active at night although are not strictly nocturnal. These little bugs are about the size of an apple seed, and they can be hard to spot, but once they become comfortably embedded in your home or business, they are there to stay. At that point, bed bugs can be almost impossible to get rid of without professional help.

The Risks of an Infestation

While bed bugs don’t transmit disease, their bites can leave itchy or painful welts. Excessive scratching can lead to secondary infections. For those with allergies or asthma, medical attention can be necessary after bed bug bites, and in rare cases, large numbers of bites have been associated with anemia. Infestations can also lead to psychological and social tolls for community members and economic and public consequences for businesses.

Beating Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are stubborn pests, but you do have several options when it comes to ridding your home or property of them. If you’re interested in chemical-free, pesticide-free options, we recommend heat treatments. Whole room heat treatments are performed by increasing the temperature of the infested area between 135°F and 145°F. This kills both the bed bugs and their eggs. The process can take from six to eight hours depending on a variety of factors, and you can immediately re-enter the area once the treatment is complete. Any heat-sensitive items can be removed and treated using other methods, if necessary.

With heat treatments, you can avoid the risks associated with pesticides. There are no lingering vapors or residual powders that could affect your children or pets, and the heat can reach every nook and cranny of your home, leaving no bed bug unaffected.

If you are experiencing a bed bug infestation, don’t try to deal with them on your own. Contact Bad Bugs today to schedule a free consultation!