IF you see bed bugs in your home, you are going to want to get rid of them straight away.
There are many ways to banish the bugs, here's the rundown.
What kills bed bugs instantly?
There are many ways you can get rid of or prevent bed bugs coming into your house.
Here are some ways of killing bed bugs instantly:
- Being exposed to direct heat - If you find bed bugs on your bedding, put them straight into the washing machine and the heat will kill them.
- Vacuum them up - If you get your vacuum out as soon as you see the bugs then they will most likely die when you suck them up, but make sure to carry the vacuum outside straight away.
- Steam - If you have a steamer to hand, steam your sheets right away and the heat will kill the bed bugs.
- Rubbing alcohol - Among one of the most popular ways of getting rid of bed bugs is using rubbing alcohol. If you dilute some with water and use a spray bottle, the bugs will die almost instantly.
- White vinegar - You can use white distilled vinegar on the edges of infested areas and spray it on the critters directly. However, it needs to be in direct contact with the critters and will only work on adult bugs.
- Professional treatment - If you want your bed bugs gone once and for all you may need to call in a professional. They will have all the appropriate chemicals and tools to eradicate the issue.
Are bed bugs dangerous?
Bed bugs are not dangerous, but some people might have a bad reaction to the bites.
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Bites tend to be a small red mark which can be slightly raised but some people's may be worse.
It's possible to have an allergic reaction or for bites to get infected which could be more serious.
An allergic reaction to multiple bites may require medical attention.
What do bed bugs look like?
Adult bed bugs tend to be about the size of an apple seed, being around 5mm.
If they haven't been fed recently they are long and brown, with a flat, oval-shaped body.
However, if they have been fed recently they are more balloon-like, reddish-brown, and more elongated.
Bed bugs feed on our blood by piercing through skin with tiny, saw-like mouths.
They numb the area with saliva full of anaesthetic to reduce pain while sucking the blood out.
How do bed bugs get in your bed?
Bed bugs can come from infested areas or soft furnishings.
They travel around by hitching a ride on bags and clothing.
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The creepy crawlies end up in your bed by already being in the room and climbing up or being on your clothes and jumping off.
The insects are able to survive up to a year without food.