Facts about bed bugs in your house

Are you troubled by the thought of bed bugs invading your home? You're not alone. Bed bugs are tiny insects that cause psychological distress and have become a significant concern for many homeowners. Just a few decades ago, there was a time when these blood-sucking insects were nearly wiped out. However, in recent years, bed bugs have returned. They can infest homes, businesses, hotels, public transportation, and more. 

In this blog, we'll look at some of the most common bed bug myths and debunk them with bed bug facts. Ehrlich’s technicians have plenty of experience with bed bugs, making them an excellent resource for deciphering bed bug myths. If you have a bed bug infestation or suspect you may have an infestation, contact your local Ehrlich Pest Control office. 

Myth: You can't get bed bugs if you have a clean home

Fact: Bed bugs do not require dirt or clutter and do not flourish in messy houses like cockroaches or rodents.

Contrary to popular belief, bed bugs are not attracted to dirt or filth but rather to warmth, carbon dioxide, and the presence of hosts (humans or animals) to feed on. Even meticulously clean homes can still fall victim to bed bug infestations if the pests are introduced via luggage, clothing, or furniture. 

Myth: Bed bugs are not visible with the naked eye

Fact: Most people can see bed bugs. Bed bugs are about the same size as an apple seed.

One of the most common myths is that bed bugs are too small to see with the naked eye. Bed bugs are indeed small, but most people can see them. In their early stages, bed bugs are about the size of a pinhead, and eggs are nearly translucent, but adult bed bugs are about the same size and shape as apple seeds. If you can see an apple seed, you can probably spot a bed bug. If we look at bed bug facts, the truth is that bed bugs are excellent at hiding. It’s this trait that makes them so hard to find.

Myth: Bed bugs can only be found in the bed

Fact: While bed bugs are commonly associated with beds due to their preference for feeding on humans while they sleep, they are not limited to beds alone and can be found in other areas of the home. 

Because they’re called “bed” bugs, it’s common for homeowners to assume these pests can only be found in or around the bed. Bed bugs can hide in furniture, cracks in walls, electrical outlets, carpets, clothing, and luggage. Bed bugs are also found in hotels, public transportation, movie theaters, and other places where many people come and go. If you read any bed bugs facts, you’ll quickly realize that these pests aren’t very picky about where they hide as long as they have access to a blood meal. 

Myth: Bed bugs can fly and jump

Fact: Bed bugs are wingless insects, so they are incapable of flying.

This myth can easily be debunked if we look at bed bug facts. Bed bugs are wingless and also lack the muscular structure to jump. Instead, they rely on crawling to move around, which they do relatively slowly compared to other pests. Occasionally, they can move quickly over short distances, particularly when disturbed.

Myth: Bed bugs transmit disease

Fact: Bed bugs are not known to transmit disease to humans. 

While their bites can cause discomfort, itching, and allergic reactions for some individuals, they are not vectors for diseases like mosquitoes or ticks. Bed bugs behave and feed differently and have a different physiology than mosquitoes and ticks. The biggest problems they inflict upon individuals are psychological and emotional due to the stress and anxiety associated with infestations.

Prevent bed bug infestations with PestFree365+

Are pests causing you stress at home? Learning bed bug facts can help some homeowners identify infestations early, but most times, you’ll need to contact a professional to help resolve your infestation completely. 

Allow our team of skilled technicians to assist you! Our PestFree365+ program offers comprehensive year-round pest control for your home. With PestFree365+, you'll enjoy protection against 39 of the most prevalent pests, including bed bugs.¹ Contact us today to learn more about PestFree365+ and how we can help prevent an infestation before it’s too late. 

Ehrlich Pest Control gets rid of bed bugs

At Ehrlich, our experienced technicians have advanced tools that provide accurate, in-depth bed bug inspections. Once the inspection is complete, our technicians can recommend an effective treatment plan that helps eliminate bed bugs in all life stages and prevents them from returning. Contact your local Ehrlich Pest Control office if you see bed bug bites or signs of bed bugs. 

¹ Homes must be free of bed bugs at the initial service to qualify for coverage of bed bugs under the PestFree365+ Plan. Applies to single family, free-standing, owner-occupied homes only. Account must be in good standing. Other limitations may apply. See Plan for details