Homeowner Tip of the Week- 10/1/19

Hello Homeowners,

This week we’re talking about bed bugs. Bed bugs can get into anybody’s home so it’s important to know what to look out for and how to treat them.

How to spot them

Bed bugs are small, flat, oval-shaped, and reddish-brown. They tend to live in mattresses, box springs, bed frames, upholstery crevices, and even carpet. Aside from directly spotting them, you can also look for their exoskeletons, bites on your body typically in small groupings, or have a professional inspect your home if you suspect you have a bed bug infestation.

How to prevent them

The best treatment is to clean your clothes and furniture regularly with hot water/steam. But even when this is practiced, they can still get in from buying used furniture, having guests over, or even traveling. It is best to check your home regularly to stop an infestation before it grows.

So you have bed bugs, now what?

Bed bugs can be treated via DIY projects and through hiring an exterminator. If you plan on DIY-ing it, you’ll need to wash your clothes and sheets in the hottest water possible and steam all of your furniture and carpet at 115 degrees Fahrenheit, as well as buy chemical sprays and isolate your bed. If you plan on hiring a professional, be sure to collect a few estimates and ensure the person or company is licensed and certified.

For more information look at this article.

Good luck!