Its easy to avoid bringing them home, but you have to know what to look for.
Where Do Bed Bugs Come From?
Bed bugs have been with us since humans began dwelling in caves.
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Theyre not part of the ecosystem but live in the human environment, says Miller.
They need us to survive.
Thats because bed bugs werent a problem in the U.S. for much of the last century.
We had control of bed bugs, though we had not eradicated them, says Benson.
Then in the early 2000s, we saw a resurgence.
Many theories exist about why bed bug infestations have returned.
Bed bug eggs are white and about the size of a pinhead.
They are almost impossible to see, but they have obvious eyespots if theyre older than five days.
The adults are flat and reddish-brown, about the color and size of an apple seed.
Bed bugs have no wings and must crawl everywhere.
But theyre willing to crawl around all night to find a meal, says Miller.
Reactions to bed bug bites vary widely from nothing to an intense, itchy red rash.
Seeing live bugs is the clearest indication of an infestation, says Benson.
You also may see shed skins or fecal matter on mattresses, walls, or other surfaces.
How To Get Rid Of Bed Bugs
If you think you have bed bugs, dont panic.
You have a few days to figure out a plan of attack.
So what do you do to get rid of bed bugs?
But others, such astermitesand bed bugs, are very difficult to control by DIY methods.
As upsetting as it can be to require treatment, try not to panic or feel ashamed.
Anyones home can become infested with bed bugs, so dont be embarrassed, says Benson.
Repeat visits will be required once new eggs hatch.
Unfortunately, no chemical products or natural essential oils have been found to repel bed bugs.
Manydifferent repellantshave been tested, but bed bugs ignore them.
Their desire to feed on you overrides the repellants, says Benson.
Sonic repellants also have no science to support their use.
Travel Precautions For Bed Bugs
Travel is one of the most common culprits of bed bug transportation.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About bed bugs.
Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Using heat to kill bed bugs.
