Articles & Podcast Episodes

Adult bed bugs are reddish-brown and the size of an apple seed. Unfed nymphs appear translucent to whitish-yellow. After they feed, adults change to red to dark brown. Bed bug eggs are light cream. These insects like to hide in dark places for safety from predators. They are known as Cimex lectularius. To identify bed … Read more

Bed bugs are often brought into homes by travelers. They can hide in luggage from hotels, public transit, or secondhand furniture like couches. These small, reddish-brown insects are drawn to carbon dioxide and body heat. They feed on human blood, causing infestations, which have increased due to more travel and changes in pest control methods. … Read more

Bed bugs die when exposed to 119°F for 90 minutes. Their eggs require 125°F for 90 minutes to ensure complete death. Lower temperatures, like 112°F to 115°F, can harm bed bugs but may not kill them. For effective elimination, use temperatures of at least 125°F. A clothes dryer can also help at these temperatures. On … Read more

Regularly wash and heat-dry your bedding and clothing. Use insect repellents containing DEET. Essential oils like cedar, tea tree, and lavender can deter bed bugs. Apply diatomaceous earth to dehydrate them. Use high heat (115°F) or extreme cold (32°F) to effectively eliminate bed bugs. Additionally, creating a DIY spray with these essential oils mixed with … Read more

Adult bed bugs are reddish-brown, wingless, and the size of an apple seed (5-7 mm). They have flat, oval bodies. Immature bed bugs, or nymphs, are smaller and translucent whitish-yellow. Signs of bed bugs include itchy red bumps on skin and blood spots or rusty stains on sheets. To effectively identify bed bugs, look for … Read more

Bed bugs do not transmit diseases to humans. They can cause allergic reactions and skin infections, but these are not classified as diseases. Some sources mention connections to diseases like leprosy or Q-fever, but evidence is weak. Bed bug bites often lead to discomfort and can impact sleep quality. The risks associated with bed bugs … Read more

Bed bugs only eat blood. They feed on humans and warm-blooded animals like pets and birds. Bed bugs cannot eat food crumbs or dead skin. They feed mainly at night. Blood is essential for their survival, hydration, and reproduction. Other than blood, bed bugs do not consume any other substance. Research indicates that bed bugs … Read more

Bed bug bites usually cause itchy, raised red welts. These welts often form in clusters or a zigzag pattern. At first, bites may feel like small pinpricks. Common symptoms include a burning sensation and swelling. Some people may experience allergic reactions, resulting in intense itching or blisters. Bites typically heal within a week. Identifying bed … Read more

Adult bed bugs are visible to the human eye. They are reddish-brown, wingless, and measure about 5-7 mm, similar to an apple seed. Nymphs, or immature bed bugs, are smaller and have a pearl-white color. Both stages are commonly found in bedding or seams of furniture. To identify bed bugs, look for small, dark spots … Read more

Bed bugs do not shine under blacklight. Their eggs, waste like fecal matter, and blood spots may show a faint glow. Look for trails and droppings in dark areas such as mattress seams and headboards. Remember, the actual bed bugs remain invisible when exposed to UV light. To effectively detect bed bugs under black light, … Read more