Dealing with bed bugs: Prevention, removal, and mistakes to avoid

Bed bug bites cause itching

If you feel itchy at night and notice red marks, bed bugs might be the cause. While not disease carriers, their bites can cause irritation and allergic reactions.

Where bed bugs hide

Bed bugs hide in mattress seams, bed frames, wall cracks, curtains, sockets, and even laptops. They emerge at night to feed on blood, then crawl back into hiding.

Signs of infestation

Look for tiny red bites, black spots (droppings), or shed skins. Check tight spaces near sleeping areas, especially seams, cracks, and clutter.

Deep clean and declutter

Wash all fabrics in hot water, vacuum regularly, and reduce clutter to remove hiding spots. Cleanliness is key to controlling bed bug spread.

Isolate the bed

Keep the bed away from walls, use interceptors under bed legs, and avoid letting blankets touch the floor to prevent bugs from climbing.

Kill with heat and powder

Use steam cleaners and diatomaceous earth to target hidden bugs. High heat kills both bugs and eggs, making it effective for infestations.

Seal, trap, and repeat

Use mattress encasements and seal all cracks. Repeating the cleaning and treatment process over 4–6 weeks is crucial to eliminate new hatchlings.

Avoid common mistakes