Bed bugs survive by feeding on blood, with humans serving as their preferred host. If people are not readily available, they may also feed on other warm-blooded animals, including household pets. These pests are primarily active after dark and typically emerge while occupants are sleeping, allowing them to feed unnoticed before returning to their hiding places.

Yes. Bed bugs are attracted to animals like humans where they can get a blood meal from, not dirt or clutter. Even well-maintained homes can experience infestations.

Bed bug bites often appear as small, itchy red bumps. Some people experience significant reactions while others may not react at all. Remember, bites alone cannot confirm bed bug activity.

Yes. Under certain conditions, bed bugs can survive for months without feeding, which can make infestations difficult to eliminate without professional intervention.

DIY efforts may reduce activity, but complete elimination is often difficult without professional treatment. Hidden bed bugs and eggs frequently survive over-the-counter products.

A small infestation can grow rapidly if left untreated. Early identification and professional service can help prevent the problem from spreading throughout the structure. A well-fed female bed bug can lay up to 500 eggs in her yearlong lifetime (in ideal conditions).

Bed bugs are one of the most frequently encountered household pests in the United States. Their presence is not an indication that a home is dirty, as they can be found in homes, hotels, apartments, and other properties of all types. While no prevention method is foolproof, homeowners can take several steps to reduce the risk of an infestation:

• Inspect Used Furniture and Belongings – Carefully examine second-hand furniture, mattresses, and other items before bringing them indoors.
• Regularly Washing and Drying Your Bedding in High Heat – High heat kills all life stages of bed bugs.
• Reduce Clutter Around the Home – Keeping bedrooms and living spaces organized limits the number of places bed bugs can hide.
• Having a Mattress Encasement – Mattress encasements can help prevent a bed bug infestation, but they are not standalone solutions.
• Practice Bed Bug Awareness While Traveling – Before settling into a hotel room, inspect the mattress seams, headboard, and nearby furniture for signs of bed bug activity.
• Perform Routine Checks – Periodically inspect mattresses, box springs, bed frames, and surrounding areas for evidence of bed bugs, such as shed skins or dark spotting.
• Schedule a Professional Inspection – If you suspect bed bugs or simply want reassurance, a qualified pest management professional can evaluate your home and recommend appropriate next steps.