Fact vs. Myths: Bed Bugs In Washington D.C.
01/20/2022
Bed bugs are small parasitic pests that often resemble an apple seed to the naked eye. They have a wingless, oval-shaped body with a reddish-brown ...
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If you have been told that your Washington D.C. home is safe from bed bug activity, you may be surprised to learn it was all a lie.
Bed bugs are frequently misunderstood pests around Washington D.C. Although it is a common misconception that these bugs only appear in dirty homes, the truth is that these pests can attack almost any property type.
Bed bugs are parasitic creatures, meaning that they must live alongside a host to survive. This is why bed bugs gather inside mattresses, couches, pillows, or other ‘lounge’ furniture in the house. Bed bugs take advantage of resting humans by crawling across their skin in a zig-zag pattern, feeding on blood and tissue. While bed bugs have not been proven to spread diseases, they are known to leave behind a trail of itchy bites, secondary infections, insomnia, and even anemia.
Thankfully, bed bugs are identifiable with the naked eye. Here are a few easy ways to look for bed bugs around your Washington DC property:
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¼ inch insects (apple seed-sized)
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Shield or oval-shaped insects
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Pests that are rusty red or brown in color
Identifying a potential bed bug infestation is only part of the pest control process. It is important to know how, where, and when these pests choose to infiltrate in the first place.
Finding A Bed Bug Hot Spot
Bed bug populations usually stick around areas of heightened traffic or human activity. This is sometimes described as a bed bug hot spot, as a majority of all infestations stem from these areas or related locales.
Bed bug hot spots are found in almost every state in the United States and include locations such as airports, train stations, bus terminals, and overnight lodgings. After spending a few hours in just one of these places, Washington D.C. home and business owners could be risking a chance encounter with a bed bug colony.
Bed bugs are known as the ‘hitchhiking’ pest, using luggage, pets, and clothing to get to where they want to go. They are opportunistic pests and will travel wherever they believe their next meal might be.
Even if you do spend extensive amounts of time inside a bed bug hot spot, there are some actions you can take to reduce your infestation liability. These include:
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Refuse to put your baggage on the ground, even if it seems more convenient. This could allow traveling bed bugs to get inside your luggage, backpack, or purse.
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Store your luggage inside the bathtub while staying overnight in a hotel. If there are wire racks or tall shelving, you may store smaller items out of the way as well.
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Be sure to wash all your clothing on the highest heat setting after returning from a trip.
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Do not purchase secondhand appliances or furniture without checking for bed bug activity. Be on the lookout for spotting, excrement, sweet scents, and other warning signs.
The prevention of bed bug populations is not a one-person job. Instead, it requires a hardworking team of homeowners, pest experts, and treatment solutions.
Manage The Spread Of Bed Bugs With American Pest
If you do notice the signs and symptoms of bed bugs in the home, it will be wise to call in some professionals right away. The hardworking team at American Pest is standing by at any time, ready and able to deliver powerful bed bug solutions at a moment’s notice. Our professionals have been trained in best pest practices since our foundation and will be happy to create an optimal pest-free environment for you and your family. Book a bed bug inspection by calling the American Pest Washington D.C. office.
