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If you have red bumps on your skin that irritates and itches you whenever you sleep on a particular mattress, then know that bed bugs have bitten you. The bites can make you feel so uncomfortable, and it can lead to serious health problems if left unattended to. In this article, however, we’ll educate you on how to get rid of bed bug bites overnight in four steps.
Bed bug infestation is public health issue in the United States. This is because of how it it impacts physical and mentally health negatively. A bed bugs bite can cause a serious allergic reaction which would require one to seek medical attention.
According to statistics, the bugs are found in all the 50 states in the US. Their season typically lasts from June to October each year.
Nearly 1 in every 5 Americans (equivalent to approximately 20% of the population) has had a bed bug.
What are bed bugs?
Bed bugs (spelt bedbugs by some people) are parasitic inserts that feed on the blood of humans and animals. The insert is small in size and flat in appearance. Though these insects feed solely on blood, they can actually live for several months without a blood meal. The bugs live in small cracks or crevices or in the tiny openings on a mattress.
What attracts bed bugs to your mattress
The inserts cannot only be found on mattresses or beds, but also can be found in bedroom stuffs such as box springs, headboards, and nightstands. However, they are mostly found on mattresses because of the warmth and darkness.
Where to find bed bugs on bed
The bugs live in place where there’s enough warmth and darkness. So, parts of your bed where you’re likely to locate the inserts are the:
- Seams: These are stitches that hold the layers of a mattress together. The stitches create small pores or openings that bed bugs can hide in.
- Folds: Bed folds are the creases that form in a mattress over time. Your weight and the movement of the mattress can cause folds.
- Tufts: Bed tufts are small and decorative bumps that are sewn onto mattresses. Made typically of fabrics or yarn, tufts are only used to add elegance to the mattress. Some manufacturers may use tufts to conceal flaws in the mattress.
How does a bed bug bite
The insert bites by inserting its sharp mouth into the human or animal skin. After inserting its mouth (proboscis), the insert starts to suck blood. The bites are usually not painful. But you may feel some itchiness at the spot. A raised and red spot are also bite marks.
How to get rid of bed bug bites overnight
The presence of the bugs will definitely lead to biting. It is therefore, important to get rid of the bugs so as to prevent them from biting you. It’s that simple!
Meanwhile, you can always find a pest control professional from a pest control company to handle the infestation for you. But you can personally also handle it using simple home remedies.
Step 1; Determine if there are any signs of the insert;
To treat bed bug bites, it’s important to first confirm whether the insects are present. The insects typically hide in cracks, crevices, bed tufts, seams and folds. So you need to keep an eye out for them and their tiny white eggs. If you’re able to confirm the insects’ presence, you can then start dealing with them.
Step 2; Deal with the infestation;
Having confirmed the presence of the bugs, you can contact a licensed pest control company with the expertise and tools to effectively tackle them.
But if you don’t have the financial muscle to seek the service of a company, you can do the needful all by yourself. Thanks to step 3 and 4.
Step 3; Clean your bedding and clothing;
Bed bugs or their eggs may be hiding on your bedding or clothing, so you need to wash them in water. It’s advisable to use plastic bags to isolate any items that the bugs have infested. High heat can kill bed bugs or damage their eggs effectively, so make sure you dry everything you’ve washed under the hot sun.
Step 4; Thoroughly vacuum your surroundings;
Take time to vacuum your home thoroughly, paying attention to areas where the bugs might be hiding. Afterward, empty the contents of the vacuum into a plastic bag and safely dispose it outside your home.
How to treat bed bug bites
To treat a bite, apply a cold compress to reduce itching and inflammation. Aloe Vera gel and calamine lotion can provide relief to the affected areas. As you do all these, avoid scratching as it may lead to infection.