Where Do Bed Bugs Come From? Answers & Tips

January 21, 2025

Bed bugs are tiny pests that can cause big problems, especially when they invade your home. These resilient insects are experts at hiding and can make their way into even the cleanest of spaces. Understanding where bed bugs come from, how to find them, and the best ways to get rid of them is crucial for protecting your home and family.

Where Do Bed Bugs Come From?

Bed bugs are great travelers. They hitch rides on luggage, clothing, and used furniture, making them common in places like hotel rooms and public transportation. These pests are not necessarily a sign of poor hygiene; rather, they spread by attaching themselves to items that move from place to place. Once they find a new home, they settle in mattresses and box springs, bed frames, and even in the folds of curtains.

used furniture on the side of the road, where bed bugs come from

Common sources of bed bugs include:

  • Hotel stays
  • Used furniture and clothing
  • Public transportation
  • Dormitories or shared living spaces

To prevent bed bugs, inspect items before bringing them into your home and avoid placing luggage on beds or floors in hotel rooms.

How to Find Bed Bugs

Spotting bed bugs early can save you from a full-blown infestation. These pests often hide in tiny crevices, making them difficult to detect. Key places to check include:

  • Mattresses and box springs: Look for dark spots, shed skins, or live bugs along the seams.
  • Bed frames and headboards: Inspect cracks and joints for signs of bed bugs.
  • Folds of curtains and electrical outlets: These hidden areas are prime hiding spots.

You may also notice signs of bed bugs such as:

  • Dark spots (fecal matter)
  • Shed skins
  • Bed bug bites, which appear as red, itchy welts on exposed skin
bed bug bites, how to find bed bugs

How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

If you’ve identified a bed bug infestation, swift action is essential. Here’s how to get rid of bed bugs:

  1. Call Alta Pest Control: The most effective way to eliminate bed bugs is by contacting the professionals. Alta Pest Control offers expert services in Kansas City, Wichita, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Fort Worth, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. We specialize in taking bed bugs to a better place and ensuring they don’t return.
  2. Clean and treat affected areas:
    • Wash clothes in hot water and dry them on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
    • Use a vacuum to remove bed bugs and their eggs from mattresses, box springs, and furniture.
    • Seal items in a plastic bag and leave them in a freezer for several days to kill any bugs.
  3. Target hiding spots:
    • Disassemble bed frames to inspect and treat crevices.
    • Check the folds of curtains and inside electrical outlets for any hidden pests.
  4. Follow Environmental Protection Agency guidelines:
    • Use EPA-approved products and follow safety instructions to ensure the process is both effective and environmentally conscious.
Bed Bug Control tech, how to get rid of bed bugs

Preventing Bed Bugs in the Future

Preventing bed bugs requires vigilance, especially after travel or when bringing new items into your home. Here are some tips:

  • Inspect hotel rooms thoroughly before unpacking.
  • Wash clothes in hot water immediately after returning from a trip.
  • Avoid purchasing used mattresses or furniture unless they’ve been professionally treated.
  • Use protective covers on mattresses and box springs to eliminate hiding spots.

Final Thoughts

Bed bugs may be small, but their impact can be significant. By understanding where bed bugs come from, how to find them, and the best methods to get rid of them, you can protect your home and your family from these unwelcome guests. If you suspect a bed bug infestation, don’t hesitate to contact Alta Pest Control. We’re here to provide thorough and compassionate solutions tailored to your needs. Call us today at 866-201-7787 or fill out our online form for expert pest control services in Kansas City, Wichita, Tulsa, OKC, Fort Worth, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio.

FAQs

Q: What are the common signs of bed bug infestation?

A: Dark spots, shed skins, live bugs, and itchy red welts on the skin are key signs.

Q: Where do bed bugs hide?

A: They often hide in mattresses, box springs, bed frames, folds of curtains, and electrical outlets.

Q: Can washing clothes kill bed bugs?

A: Yes, washing clothes in hot water and drying them on high heat for 30 minutes can effectively kill bed bugs and their eggs.

Q: Should I use a plastic bag to contain bed bug-infested items?

A: Yes, sealing items in a plastic bag can prevent the spread of bed bugs while treating them.

Q: How do professionals get rid of bed bugs?

A: Alta Pest Control uses specialized treatments to kill bed bugs and prevent re-infestation effectively.

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