Bed Bug Control  – Exterminators – Removal

Bed bugs are small pests. Adults are only about 5 mm long and 3 mm wide. Their bodies are oval-shaped and mostly flat unless they’ve just fed Bed bugs are dark brown in color, but appear more red after feeding. Bed bug nymphs, on the other hand, are only 1-4 mm in length and pale in color. This makes them especially difficult to see. If you would like to view photos of these pest, we have more details on our bed bug photos page.

Yes, bed bugs are infamous for their bites. These pests survive off of blood meals and will feed on their hosts for 3-12 minutes. These bites may cause a few mild symptoms, but they are not considered dangerous for your health. Bed bug bites are not known to spread any dangerous diseases.

Bed bug bites are often confused for other bug bites, but there are a few things that set them apart:

1. Bed bug bites most often occur on parts of the body that are most exposed during sleep, such as the arms and legs.
2. Bites typically appear in a pattern, such as a straight line or zigzag lines.
3. A bite can cause a number of symptoms from red, itchy marks to more swollen areas. More serious symptoms are rare*.

*If experiencing severe symptoms similar to an allergic reaction, seek immediate help from your doctor.

Bed bugs live in groups and typically inhabit locations where people sleep or rest for extended periods of time. Beds are of course the main hiding spot for bed bugs, but they are also found in upholstered furniture,  wooden furniture, cracks or crevices in the wall, headboards, and even in power outlets. 

Anyone and everyone can get a bed bug infestation. Bed bug infestations often start when people travel. People that visit high risk areas such as hotels, schools, dorms, office buildings and movie theaters are prone to an infestation.

If you think you have bed bugs, there are a few places to inspect:

1. Use a flashlight and check around beds, bed frames, mattresses and box springs.
2. Inspect areas for live bed bugs, which are often gathered together.
3. Look for the main signs of bed bug activity, including dark spots and blood stains on sheets.
4. If you see anything suspicious, call a bed bug exterminator for a thorough inspection.

Bed bugs can not be treated with at-home or DIY attempts. It’s important to get the best bed bug treatment options. At Johnson Pest Control, our bed bug treatment strategy focuses on exterminating bed bugs utilizing conventional application methods, as well as bed bug heat treatments that eradicate bed bugs in infested areas. 

Because bed bug infestations often start when the bugs hitch a ride on luggage, bedding, furniture, boxes and clothing, there are several ways you can prevent an infestation:

1. Before buying secondhand furniture or items, always check for the signs of bed bugs. This is especially important for upholstered items.
2. When traveling, do not set luggage down on bed or furniture,  until you have inspected bedding, mattresses, curtains and headboard. Take precautions upon returning home as well.
3. Use a protective cover that encases mattresses and box springs to get rid of a main hiding spot.