What are Bedbugs?

Bedbugs are tiny, flat insects that feed on the blood of humans and other mammals. They are nocturnal and tend to hide in cracks and crevices during the day, making them difficult to detect. These pests are a common problem in households, hotels, and other residential and commercial properties.

History of Bedbugs

Bedbugs have been around for thousands of years and have been mentioned in ancient Greek and Roman writings. Their history is closely intertwined with that of human civilization. They were a common problem in Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries, with infestations being reported in the homes of both the rich and the poor.

During the 20th century, bedbugs became less common in developed countries due to the widespread use of insecticides and improved sanitation practices. In the United States, bedbugs were a significant problem in the early 20th century but declined in the 1940s and 1950s with the widespread use of DDT. 

Bedbug walking on a mattress

Recent Resurgence of Bedbugs

In recent years, bedbugs have made a comeback in many parts of the world. The reasons for this resurgence are not entirely clear, but factors such as increased international travel, resistance to pesticides/Banning DDT, and lack of public awareness and education may be contributing to the problem.

In the latter half of the 20th century, public health departments began seeing more infestations of bedbugs all across the globe. Infestations have been reported in all 50 US states as well as in many other countries around the world. Unfortunately for us, this trend also applies to most of Canada.

Today, bedbugs continue to be a significant pest problem, and their eradication often requires a combination of insecticides, heat treatments, and thorough cleaning. While bedbugs do not transmit disease, their bites can cause irritation, itching, and in rare cases, allergic reactions.

General Information about Bedbugs

Bedbugs are small, oval-shaped insects that are typically brownish-red in color. They are about the size of an apple seed and can range in size from 1mm to 7mm in length. These pests do not fly but can move quickly over floors, walls, and ceilings. Bedbugs can go several months without feeding and can survive in a wide range of temperatures.

Bedbugs are most commonly found in mattresses, box springs, and bedding but can also be found in furniture, behind baseboards, and in other crevices and cracks in walls and floors. They are attracted to warmth, carbon dioxide, and other chemicals produced by humans and other animals.

Bedbugs are not known to transmit diseases to humans, but their bites can be uncomfortable and can cause an allergic reaction in some people. The bites can appear as red, itchy welts and are often found in a line or cluster.

Signs that bedbugs are in your house

There are 5 signs that may indicate the presence of bedbugs in your house. Here are a few common ones to look out for:

  1. Live bedbugs
    If you're able to spot live bedbugs, they are typically reddish-brown in colour, and about the size and shape of an apple seed. If you are lucky, there are still only a few.
  2. Bites
    Bedbugs typically feed on human blood while you're sleeping, leaving behind itchy, red bite marks on your skin. These bites may be grouped together in a line or cluster.
  3. Blood stains
    After feeding, bedbugs may leave small bloodstains on your bedding or clothing.
  4. Fecal matter
    Bedbugs also leave behind fecal matter, which looks like small, dark specks. You may find this on your bedding or near the areas where bedbugs are hiding.
  5. Musty odour
    Bedbugs emit a distinct, musty odour that may be noticeable in a room where they are present.

Prevention & Control of Bedbug Infestations

Preventing and treating bedbug infestations can be challenging. Prevention measures include inspecting second-hand furniture and avoiding bringing used furniture into the home, sealing cracks and crevices, and using mattress and box spring encasements. If an infestation is suspected, it is important to contact a pest control professional who has experience in dealing with bedbugs.

Treatment options for bedbug infestations include insecticides, heat treatments, and in rare cases fumigation (house tenting). It is important to follow the recommendations of the pest control professional and to take steps to prevent re-infestation after treatment.

Bedbugs are a common problem in households, hotels, and other residential and commercial properties. Although they do not transmit diseases to humans, their bites can be uncomfortable and can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Prevention and treatment of bedbug infestations can be challenging, and it is important to seek the assistance of a pest control professional with experience in dealing with these pests.

Do you suspect that you have bedbugs in your home?

Don't Wait! Contact us now. A bedbug inspection costs just $74.99 -  a small investment that will restore your peace of mind.

We'll send a bedbug control expert to your home to do a very thorough inspection. The Best case scenario is that you don't have any bedbugs. If you do have bedbugs, we'll give you expert advice on what can be done to get rid of them.

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Our technician "Brian" was very professional with excellent customer service. He was at my house taking care of my problem within a couple of hours of my phone call. He was very attentive to the situation and checked in often with his findings and how to proceed. He provided me with advice and even took the time to give my neighbour advice too. I would highly recommend them!

Krista P.
November, 2022

Great company . I wasn’t happy with my previous exterminator. This company was trustworthy professional and got the job done!!

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April 17, 2022
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