Pest Control - Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are small insects that feed on the blood of sleeping people and animals at night. During the day, they hide in dry, dark places.
The bites of bed bugs aren't usually a health hazard, but they can be irritating. Scratching at them can cause infection.
Many people pick up bed bugs in their luggage when they're travelling. You can also bring them into your home in second-hand furniture, bedding or clothing.
Tips for avoiding and killing Bed Bugs:
Always check second-hand furniture before bringing it into your home.
Avoid buying second-hand mattresses. Wash second-hand bedding and clothing in hot water immediately (provided the fabric can tolerate it).
When travelling – either within New Zealand or overseas – always check your hotel room for bed bugs before you settle in. Keep your bags off the floor, and check them for bed bugs before you leave.
When you get home, wash your clothes in the hottest water the fabric can tolerate. Vacuum the inside and outside of your bags, paying special attention to creases. Empty the vacuum cleaner into a plastic bag and seal it.
Bed bug bites affect everyone differently:
Some people have no reaction and don't even develop bite marks.
Most people get a series of itchy bites, similar to mosquito or sandfly bites. These may not show up until a few days after you've been bitten.
Some people are allergic to bed bugs' saliva. This means they may get painful swelling or enlarged bite marks.
In very rare cases, people can have a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. This is a medical emergency and you should dial 111 immediately.
If you think you have bed bugs, don't delay, give us a call today and we will get it sorted out for you.