When it comes to bed bugs, many people have misconceptions and myths about these pesky pests. These tiny insects are often misunderstood, and unfortunately, this can lead to ineffective and harmful control methods.
It’s important to dispel these myths to better understand bed bugs and effectively eradicate them from your home.
Myth #1: Bed Bugs Only Live in Dirty Places
One of the most common myths about bed bugs is that they only infest dirty and cluttered environments. This couldn’t be further from the truth.
Bed bugs are not attracted to filth or dirt, but rather to warmth, carbon dioxide, and human blood. They can be found anywhere there are humans, regardless of cleanliness.
Myth #2: Bed Bugs Can Fly
Contrary to popular belief, bed bugs cannot fly. They do not have wings and are incapable of flight. Instead, they travel by crawling or hitchhiking on clothing, luggage, and other items.
Myth #3: You Can’t See Bed Bugs
While bed bugs are small, measuring about 5-7mm in length, they are still visible to the naked eye. However, due to their ability to hide in cracks and crevices, it can be challenging to spot them.
It’s important to thoroughly inspect your bed and surrounding areas regularly for any signs of bed bug activity.
Myth #4: Bed Bugs Only Bite at Night
Bed bugs are most active at night, but they can still feed during the day if they are hungry.
They are attracted to the carbon dioxide we exhale, which is why they tend to bite when we’re asleep and not moving as much. However, if they are hungry and see an opportunity, they will still bite during the day.
Myth #5: Bed Bugs Only Live in Beds
Another common myth is that bed bugs only live in beds. While they prefer to hide in and around beds, they can also be found in other furniture, such as couches and chairs, as well as cracks and crevices in walls and floors.
Myth #6: Bed Bugs Carry Diseases
There is no evidence that bed bugs transmit or carry diseases. While their bites can cause skin irritation and discomfort, they are not known to spread any illnesses to humans.
Myth #7: Bed Bugs Can Be Eradicated with DIY Methods
Many people believe they can get rid of bed bugs on their own using DIY methods, such as essential oils or sprays.
However, these methods are often ineffective and can even worsen the infestation by causing the bed bugs to scatter and spread to other areas. It’s best to seek professional help when dealing with a bed bug infestation.
Myth #8: Bed Bugs Only Bite Humans
While humans are their preferred hosts, bed bugs can also bite animals, such as dogs and cats. However, they cannot survive on animal blood alone and eventually require a human host.
Takeaway
It’s important to educate ourselves and others about the truth behind these bed bug myths. By understanding their behaviour and habits, we can effectively prevent and control infestations.
Remember to seek professional help if you suspect a bed bug infestation in your home, as they are difficult to eradicate on your own. Let’s dispel these myths and take the necessary steps to keep our homes free of these unwanted pests.
Looking to hire a bed bug treatment service? Ninja Pest is always ready to help!