Dealing with bed bugs can be a real headache. These little pests are notorious for causing sleepless nights and endless worries. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of a bed bug infestation, you’re not alone. We’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about bed bugs to help you get a handle on the situation.

All Your Bed Bug Questions Answered

Can pets give you bed bugs?

While it’s not impossible, it’s unlikely that your furry friends are to blame for bringing bed bugs into your home. Bed bugs hitch rides on luggage, clothing, and second-hand furniture, not often on pets.

Will bed bugs bite pets?

Yes, unfortunately, they will. While bed bugs prefer human blood, they won’t turn down a meal from your dog or cat. If you notice your pet scratching more than usual it’s most likely to be fleas, but bed bugs could be the culprit.

How long does it take to completely get rid of bed bugs?

How fast depends on how big the infestation is, the treatment method you choose, and how effectively you prevent reinfestation. For example, if you have a small 2 bedroom home and choose to have the whole house heat treated, while also taking care to ensure no bed bugs are on your clothes, it may take just 24 hours to be free of bed bugs.

If, on the other hand, you’re in an apartment building with a bed bug problem and not all apartments are treated effectively at the same time, and a few residents do not take care to wash and dry their clothes on a high heat, the infestation may take a lot longer to deal with.

Do I have to throw away my clothes if I have bed bugs?

Good news—you don’t need to toss your wardrobe. Wash your clothes in hot water and dry them on high heat to kill bed bugs. Keep clothes in sealed plastic bags until you can wash them.

Should I stay home if I have bed bugs?

It’s best to stay home to avoid spreading bed bugs to other places and people. While you’re home, take steps to contain the infestation and contact a pest control professional for help.

Can I get bed bugs from someone riding in my car?

Yes, though it’s not common. Bed bugs could hitch a ride if someone with an infestation sits in your car. If you have a “high traffic” vehicle where you take a lot of passengers, it’s more likely.

Can I get bed bugs from a bus?

It is possible to catch bed bugs from buses. If someone gets on the bus after coming into contact with bed bugs, they may unknowingly deposit them on the bus where they can transfer to you. Make sure to wash your clothes soon after getting home after a day of traveling.

Can I get bed bugs on a plane?

While it’s not common, there have been instances of people finding bed bugs on a plane. Bed bugs can travel in luggage and on passengers, and may make a home in an airplane seat. Again, make sure to wash the clothes you took with you soon after getting home on a hot wash to prevent bringing any hitchhikers into your bedroom.

Do you have to throw away your bed when you have bed bugs?

No you don’t, you just need to have it treated effectively. Since having chemicals sprayed on your bed isn’t good for you (and may not reach the bed bugs inside anyway), the best type of treatment to choose is a heat treatment. Heat treatments heat up the air inside a room and maintain the temperature until all the bed bugs are sure to have perished, no matter where they’re hiding.

What does a bed bug look like?

Bed bugs are small, flat, and brown, though younger bed bugs can be see-through. Adults are about the size of an apple seed, but after feeding, they swell and become more of a reddish color.

What does a bed bug bite look like?

Bed bug bites can be almost indetectable, but in most cases, they’ll be at least a little red and itchy, usually in a line or cluster of a few bites around the edges of your clothing, such as your ankles, legs, and arms.

Worried about bed bugs? We’re here to help

Facing a bed bug infestation is never fun, but knowing what to look for and how to handle it can make a big difference. If you’re in Arizona and think you might have bed bugs, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free inspection. Our expert pest control services are here to help you get rid of bed bugs and get back to a peaceful, bug-free life. Click here to learn more.