Why Bedbugs are So Repulsive

The name “bedbug” doesn’t sound menacing but when you get down to the nitty-gritty of what they are, that perception might change. Cimex lectularius is the species name of what we call the common bed bug. These parasites only live to infest your bed, couches, clothing and carpet, where they feed on your blood. It is quite unnerving when you know the details.

A recent NPMA survey conducted online by The Harris Poll found the following results when people were polled about bedbugs:

• 30% of Americans are concerned about bedbugs infecting their home
• 34% of Americans described the thought of having bedbugs as “making their skin crawl”
• 15% of Americans have noticed an increase in pest activity in their home in the last 12 months
• 10% of Americans have admitted to having nightmares about small insects like bedbugs

As you can see, for a large swath of people bedbugs are no laughing matter. They simply creep people out. The thought of something conspiring to bite them in the middle of the night while they are sleeping is almost too much to handle.

Bedbugs are not native to North America. They are believed to have originated from the Middle East many centuries ago, arriving in the U.S. in the 17th century, only after having spread all throughout Europe many years prior. They were very common in the United States before a crackdown on them began after WW2 using DDT.

How to Tell if You Have Bedbugs

• Bites: Raised, itchy bites that are frequently arranged in a line or clustered together. They are typically found on areas of the face, neck, and arms that are exposed while you sleep.
• Stains: Reddish or rusty stains from crushed bed bugs on bed linens or mattresses. Additionally, you may notice tiny brown patches on furniture or bedding, which are the excrement of bed bugs.
• Eggs: Little eggs, about 1 mm in size, pale yellow in color. They adhere loosely to surfaces and have an oval shape and a pearly white color.
• Exoskeletons: As nymphs mature, they shed their skins.
• Smell: A sweet, musty smell, particularly in areas with extensive infestations.

Pest Control to the Rescue

Pest control companies like Sunstate Pest can help you solve your bedbug problem. We have handled thousands of cases in the 40+ of years that we have been around.

We will also discuss with you how you can avoid getting them again in the future. There is no shame in having bedbugs. Even the cleanest and tidy homes can become infected. Give us a call today if you need assistance at 1-800-781-7378