October 2021
Bed bugs can’t be prevented from finding their way into your home. They reproduce quickly at a rate of 200 to 500 healthy eggs during a lifetime or two to five eggs a day. It is estimated that 90 percent of hotels have been treated for bed bugs with nearly 40 percent treated every few months. Similar estimates may be appropriate for high-rise communities.
Residential communities are continuously challenged in controlling, with the hope of eradicating, bed bugs. The cost of constant diligence and regular treatments can be more economical than replacing mattresses, furniture, clothing and other items from repeated infestation. A building or community known to have bed bug problems is less desirable than a “clean” property.
Bed bugs are hard to find. Look for clues during cleaning or maintenance that include clusters of dark brown or black spots of excrement on mattress seams, box springs and headboards. Rust coloured spots denote crushed bed bugs. Small translucent exoskeleton casings may be found.
When choosing wallpaper avoid textures that can hide the existence of bed bugs. Ensure it is properly adhered to the wall without bubbles, gaps or tears. Wicker furniture offers cracks and crevices where bed bugs hide. Long and thick carpeting is an ideal hiding spot. Shorter carpeting and hardwood flooring are better choices.
Canine inspections are effective at identifying bed bug infestations in hidden areas.
If you suspect a bed bug problem be proactive. Don’t wait for an infestation to be visible. Professional assistance may be the only way to prevent an infestation from worsening.
